Overview & Reviews

With a few well-established vehicles dominating the midsize sedan segment, and numerous likable competitors trying to unseat them, it's tough for any particular vehicle to stand out. But the Mazda 6 has often offered something most competitors don't: charisma.

While just about any car in this segment will get the job done, the Mazda 6 manages to engage the driver in the process. This was particularly true of the first-generation 6, which had a relatively compact, European-size footprint and sporty suspension tuning that gave the car a remarkably nimble feel. For the second- and third-generation 6, Mazda enlarged the dimensions but retained much of the original model's handling panache. Whichever vintage you choose, the Mazda 6 is a solid choice as a midsize sedan.

Current Mazda 6
The Mazda 6 midsize sedan comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Two transmissions are available: a six speed manual or a six-speed automatic (with shift paddles on the steering wheel).

Sport, Touring and Grand Touring are the three trim levels for the current Mazda 6. Standard equipment on the base Sport with the manual transmission includes a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, a 60/40-split rear seat and a six-speaker sound system. The automatic transmission-equipped Sport gets Bluetooth, an infotainment touchscreen and a rearview camera.

Stepping up to the Touring adds items such as keyless ignition and entry, blind-spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver seat. Options for the Touring include automatic headlights, a sunroof, an upgraded sound system, navigation and a frontal collision mitigation system. The Grand Touring gets all the standard and optional features from the Touring, plus bi-xenon headlights, foglights, leather upholstery and heated front seats. Notable options for the Grand Touring include adaptive cruise control and the i-Eloop system that improves fuel economy by 2-3 mpg.

Visually, the 6 is no wallflower, with a distinctive face and a sleek profile that stands out in a crowd. In terms of practicality, the Mazda 6 also stacks up well against class leaders such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry with regard to passenger space and cargo volume. Moreover, most midsize sedans can't match the Mazda's entertaining character on twisty back roads. The car's main downsides are an electronic interface that's a little behind the times and a ride quality that some drivers might deem a tad too stiff.

Used Mazda 6 Models
The newest, third-generation Mazda 6 appeared for 2014. Compared to the previous-generation model, the latest 6 differentiates itself with sleeker styling, higher fuel economy and added safety features. Mazda hasn't made any major changes since.

The second-generation Mazda 6 debuted for the 2009 model year and was produced through 2013. There were two available engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 170 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque or a 3.7-liter V6 that put out 272 hp and 269 lb-ft. The four-cylinder was paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic, while the V6 was only available with a six-speed automatic.

In its second generation, the 6 was available in five trim levels: i Sport, i Touring, i Touring Plus, i Grand Touring and s Grand Touring. Models with the "i" prefix come with the four-cylinder engine, while those with the "s"prefix come with the V6. Base models were respectably equipped, while higher trim levels came with such niceties as a sunroof, Bluetooth, dual-zone automatic climate control and an audible blind-spot monitoring system. Other notable options included xenon headlights, keyless ignition and entry, satellite radio and a navigation system.

As with other Mazda 6 models, we appreciated this generation's sporty handling. It was also pretty practical thanks to a roomy interior and a big trunk. On the downside, though, fuel economy wasn't the best in the segment and interior materials were lackluster. In its final couple years, this 6 also seemed increasingly outdated compared to newer rivals from Hyundai, Nissan and Toyota. But overall we think it's still worth considering as a used family sedan.

Launched for the 2003 model year and produced through 2008, the first-generation Mazda 6 was initially available only as a sedan, while a four-door hatchback and a wagon joined the lineup from 2004-'07. There were two basic trim levels: i and s. The Mazda 6 i was powered by a 160-hp four-cylinder engine mated to either a manual or an automatic transmission. The s came with a 220-hp 3.0-liter V6 -- also available with a manual transmission or an automatic.

The Mazdaspeed 6 was a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive variant of the Mazda 6 sedan that was only offered in 2006 and '07. Boasting 278 hp, a six-speed manual transmission and sports-car-like handling, this European-style sedan delivered great driving excitement. As a used car, it's a compelling package for those with a need for speed, not to mention all-wheel-drive traction.

With power accessories, cruise control and pleasant cloth upholstery, even base models were reasonably well equipped. Optional features included a rear spoiler, foglights, leather seating, a power sunroof and an upgraded audio system with a CD changer.

We like the original Mazda 6 for its edgy, handsome design and stylish interior. Even more impressive were its communicative steering and tight suspension. Both the hatchback and wagon were fun-to-drive and sensible alternatives to other sedans and even SUVs. On the downside, the first-gen Mazda 6's interior quality was lacking, and the sedan was relatively short on passenger space. Moreover, the V6 lacked the punch of rival uplevel motors.

There were a few changes made to the first-generation Mazda 6 over the years. In 2005, a six-speed automatic replaced the five-speed unit on V6 models. For 2006, four-cylinder cars received an upgraded five-speed automatic in place of the old four-speed, and all Mazda 6 models were treated to minor styling updates. The 2006 and '07 models benefited from additional safety features being made standard.

User Reviews:

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  2003 6i 4cyl Auto Redfire Metallic - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By texas6 - June 19 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had the 6 for a few days now I am very impressed by what Mazda has done with this car. Distinct eye catching exterior styling is sporty yet simple. Interior quality is excellent, nearing Honda in terms of materials and design. Performance all around is amazing. From making quick highway passes, carving into turns, to stopping on a dime I am impressed at what this sub $20K automobile is capable of. In terms of value, quality and performance the Mazda 6 IMHO cant be beat. I bought this car used with 16K miles on it for under $14K.

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  Fun To Drive - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Kelman - June 19 - 2:00 am

  I have the 3.0 V-6 Mazda 6 S. This car wants to go. Youll want to drive it in a low gear around town, so that the revs are up, and the horsepower is available. At low revs, it doesnt have much snap. But if you are cruising at 3,000 rpm, you can seriously surprise some of those high-priced sedans youre running next to.

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  Cant beat it for the money - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By jzn2tr - June 15 - 1:00 pm

  I have a 2004 S that I have now put 40,000 miles on, with no trips yet to the dealer for repairs. Had a 2003 S before that which was totaled in a wreck. I took the insurance check and immediately bought a 2004 to replace it - the best kind of statement of satisfaction. Used to drive Toyotas, but neither Toyota or Honda has any sedans that are fun to drive. This car is still fun, drives like an adult sports car. Main drawback is that, as equipped, drives very rough and noisy over rough roads. However, the original Michelins wore out after 38,000 miles and I replaced them with Goodyears, which helps quiet the ride. The 2003 I owned before was never as noisy as this one.

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  really incredible car - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By dancingyaya - June 9 - 5:11 pm

  I am so pleased with this car. It is stylish and sleek. The design is distinctive. It rides very smoothly and gets great gas mileage. I like to drive, and in this car, I feel very connected to the driving experience. The steering is responsive, the fuel economy is great, yet the power is there when you need or want it. Interior is comfortable, ride is quiet, Bose stereo system is great.

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  Looking for a new car? Look no further! - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By kb698a - June 7 - 1:31 am

  I just recently got my new Mazda 6, took my dealer over a month to find the one I wanted but it was worth the wait! The handling is great and responsive, takes corners with ease and minimal body roll. The seats are soft yet very supportive and very comfortable. I went with the 6 because of its aggressive and stylish design, and also the great fuel economy. I drive a 100 miles a day for work and needed to get good MPG. Above and beyond my expectations so far, getting 37 MPG average!! Also a lot of interior room, Im 6ft and have more than enough room. I dont even have to move my seat for my 63" friend to sit behind me with plenty of leg room to spare. And also awesome value!

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  Poor Factory Workmanship, Fit & Finish - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By 6S Buyer - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Poor fit & finish, hood, bumper cover, fenders & front end accessories are out of alignment & a bent door. A loose windshield gasket and a rattle in the dash. I looked at Mazda6 cars on 3 dealer lots, each exhibiting similar poor exterior workmanship. I complained to both the dealer and Mazda corporate, all to no avail. Ignored for nearly 120 days, the Mazda factory rep finally told me that the poor workmanship "meets the factory standard." & that the bent door "may be" my fault. Examine your Mazda6, & note the hood & bumper cover alignment & the hoods over hang. I expected acknowledgement & timely service. I should have bought the Altima!

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  Very disappointed in my Mazda6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tom L - May 23 - 4:13 pm

  It seems like a solid car, and it handles nice, but there are too many things about it that fall short of expectations. Bought the 5-Door S model with 6 speed auto. I have owned it about 2 months. Compared to my 98 Maxima with a 5 speed manual, this car is SLOW. Maybe the automatic is the problem. It couldnt get up a hill if your life depended on it. The ride with the sport suspension is horrible on bumpy roads. The gas mileage is pathetic. I average 19 mpg combined. Climate control never blows hot air. Honestly, I would gladly take $2,000 less than what I paid for it and buy something else.

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  Good Decision - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By sebass - May 18 - 1:56 am

  I bought the Mazda6 almost two weeks ago after test driving the Fusion, G6, Mustang, and Mazda 3. For the money this was the best vehicle I drove. Everytime I test drove another car I would end up comparing it to this car. I was impressed with the smooth ride a surprising power from the 4cyl right of the bat. With all the standard features of this trim leve no other car could come close to matching the price. So far im very happy with this car. The first tank of gas got about 25 mpg, I expect it to get better once the engine is fully broken in.

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  Luxury Sports Sedam - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By moveover - May 14 - 6:07 am

  Have had the car for 2 weeks now and love it. The GT has all the options you expect to find in a luxury car. The handling is great and you get good mileage too.

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  2009 mazda6 - 1 year later - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By tamoshanter - May 11 - 10:00 am

  bought this 2009 mazda6 for my wife last year after she put 235k on her 2000 626. she loves it - base model, sound system very good, very good pickup for a 4 cyl w/ 6 spd manual. black interior shows dust and dirt more quickly. you can bury several bodies in the trunk without blinking, and sleep in the back seat with two others. ride is smooth, handling excellent (for its size) and A/C will freeze you in seconds. we had a 1990 protege with 250k, and i got the hand- me-down 2000 6 (averaging 150 miles/daily) and still running like a watch.