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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  Disappointed - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By dyna - October 6 - 5:50 pm

  Actually, this probably isnt a bad little car. The problem may be that Im comparing it to my previous car, a Saab 9-3, which cost the SAME amount of money to lease as the Mazda! I guess I didnt appreciate its turbo engine and excellent gas mileage while I had it. Im certainly feeling like Im getting less for the same price. The Mazdas a "cute" car, but not overly impressive for the price. Its slow on the uptake, but rides nicely once it gets going. The seats are comfy and it definitely is a fun car to drive. The dash, however, looks like what it is, cheap plastic. Frankly, Im having "leasers remorse". Unfortunately I have another 3 years in this car.

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  Excellent sports sedan! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By JKP - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Had the car for a month now, and love it! Handles beautifully, holds five adults and their luggage, gets up and goes when you need it to. Love the looks - this car turns heads! I wanted a sports sedan for less than the $35k Id have had to find for the BMW 3 series, and Mazda provided one. As my husband and I are planning a family in the next year, we needed a safe car that can hold a stroller and all the other kid paraphenalia but I refused to settle for a boring car. This car covers both the mommy aspect of my future and the "heck, yes, I love driving" aspect!

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  nice car but....... - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By rag723 - October 4 - 3:03 am

  The Mazda6 is a nice car and a nice ride but I had problems with it. The gas tank has been replaced because it was making a strange noise, the lumber adjust broke, the weather strip on the windows have been replaced. Ive spend alot ot time at the dealership and I only have 5K miles. Not sure if I would buy Mazda again.

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  Mazda 6 Sport 6-spd manual - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By marvandam - October 2 - 12:56 pm

  I was down to the 2 sportiest and reliable sedans- Accord vs Mazda6. I wanted a manual and unfortunately the Accord Sport only comes in gray and black. I saw the Soul Red 6 and fell in love. The Accord had a more spacious cabin- the 6 has more dramatic style which cuts out space- but Ill deal with it- rather stand out on the road and not be another suburban middle-aged man driving an Accord or Camry (no offense). It drives like a sports sedan- lots of fun. Manual shifter is amazing and excellent MPGs. Engine has a nice tone to it- more of a growl than a typical 4 cylinder engine. The ride is firmer- but I love it because it handles better- thats the trade-off.

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  Fuel Consumption - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By 2006 Mazda MAZDA6 - October 2 - 4:16 am

  Nice car, poor fuel consumption (13-16 MPG, city). Dealer unable to find any problem. Non aggressive driver averaged 20-22 MPG, same conditions) with 3 previous Taurus wagons.

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By 6n - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Ive had it now for 8 months and still cant wait to drive it every morning. Great all-aroud vehicle and more stylish than the plain looking Accords and Camrys. The manual transmission really complments the cars engine, more fun than ever driving this car. Zoom- Zoom

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  My Precious - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Barticus - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Excellent handling makes this car not only fun to drive but a responsibility to drive it well and hard. It demands nothing less then tight turns and hilly roads so it can show you what it is to have a blast while driving.

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  Best Car! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Cathy - September 27 - 5:30 pm

  Love this car. Fun to drive, very comfortable, roomy back seat, HUGE cargo capacity with rear seats folded down. Best car Ive ever owned!

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  Otto the auto... - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By ZoomZoom79 - September 24 - 2:00 am

  For all those considering purchasing a fun vehicle to drive that gets away from the dull and boring car (Toyota Camry, Honda Accord - besides, Im SOOO sick of hearing how great these cars are), then consider the 6s. I purchased 1 one 6 Blazing Copper Metallic (Orange) Mazda 6s in my state, and have received tons of compliments on the style of the car and the color. Being a Syracuse Univ. alum, the car is appropriately named Otto. The heated leather seats and mirrors are a nice touch, and the Bose audio system cant be beat. The performance handles like a sports car, and spending an extra $150 for tinted windows is definetely a MUST.

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  Fun sporty Mazda with lots of features - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By rporterincincy - September 20 - 1:26 am

  My wife bought the 2009 Mazda 6i loaded with leather, sunroof, Bose stereo, everything but Navigation. She loves the car and finally understands why some people are "car people". Lots of interesting features (a switch to adjust the headlight aim, auto wipers, ac, lights, and locks. The car now has 43k miles and has only needed tires and brakes. It has never broken down, the interior and exterior are perfect. I would like the speedo to be larger with easier to see numbering (hard to tell if you are going 75, 72, etc.), and would like the gas mileage to be just a bit better. At 75 mph, the tach is showing about 2,500 rpm. This all said, the ride is comfortable and firm, seats are good.