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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no longer boring - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
By brian06 - August 15 - 6:03 amI have recently purchased my first sedan and coming from a truck person (Ford) I must admit it has been an easy transition. From the test drive to parking it at my home I have finally realized that driving can be more than an obligation. The Mazda6 handles like a dream and the attention to detail for this build is above the standards that I have always looked for. Only faults of this car would be the stereo for it is not much in the astonishing sounds department so replacing the stock speakers will be a task for the near future. Overall, I am completely satisfied with my purchase and would recommend this car to anyone in the market for a new vehicle. An excellent buy for the dollar!
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Love my 6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
By mv0093 - August 12 - 2:00 amThis is my 3rd Mazda and they just keep getting better and better. The handling and control are precise. It is also a blast to drive.
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beast - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
By michigan_maca - August 12 - 2:00 amExecelent car... the beast:)
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zoom zoom!!!!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
By Enis Thomas - August 12 - 2:00 amMy 6s is a great looking fun to drive vehicle. Mazda has hit the nail on the head with their zoom zoom saying. This car not only has great looks, it comes nicely set up, especially with the sport package. I highly recomend this vehicle to anybody, especially those who want a hot looking car with reliability.
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Best car for the money - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
By Matts 6s - August 12 - 2:00 amI wanted a new car with all the features it had to offer and the Mazda6 was definitely the best choice. Its not the best in any one category, but its very good in everything. Paid $24,200 for the S 5spd w/appearance/bose/leather. Defintely consider this car if your looking for something under 30k with lots of features good speed and great style.
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Mazda6 Sportswagon - Value & Performance - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
By Dave Miller - August 11 - 10:56 amThe Mazda comes with leather, manumatic 6 speed and comfortable seats that compare with any German make. The fit and finish at delivery was flawless and much to my surprise, the first 2500 miles have given me an average of 28.35 MPG with 80% highway driving at 75 MPH. The Bose audio system is outstanding for the jazz and big band sounds I like. On the winding roads of Kentucky and Wisconsin the wagon handles as well as most "sports" cars.
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Fun to drive - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
By Brad - August 10 - 11:20 pmI recently purchased an 09 6i Touring with the 6 CD changer & moonroof, along with a rear spoiler. My 2004 Mazda 3i was totaled so I wasnt in "car buying" mode, but Im glad I stayed with Mazda. I went with the 4-cyl, which is starkly different than Edmunds review of the V6. The ride is very quiet, and I get good gas mileage (1600 mi, ~24mpg combined.) The acceleration is great, most noticeably between 50mph - 75mph, even in auto. The braking is excellent too. As nimble as my 3i was, I feel like the 6i has excellent handling for its larger size. Ive also fit 4 grown adults in the car, and theyve all commented how much legroom they have. Mazda got it right again!
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Great Car for the $ - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
By 1RADDAD - August 9 - 4:46 pmGreat Car Black on Black
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One year update - still happy - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
By jmick1 - August 8 - 7:53 amFollow up to the three month post. Still very happy with the car. Pleasure to drive, easy on the eyes and at the pump. Made it through a South Texas summer and would prefer cloth over leatherette seats--they get pretty warm and dont breathe. That would have meant the Sport vice Touring trim, which would have removed the COMAND knob (which I play with but dont really use). I would have been OK with that since the Sport Auto includes the backup cam, which has turned out to be really nice. The smaller wheels wouldnt have been a deal breaker. Averaging about 31.5 in mixed driving.
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As Good as The Best - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
By jim - August 5 - 6:53 amI have been looking for an entry level luxury car for several months. My problem is that every time I test drive an Acura TL, Infinity G35, BMWi, I get back into my Mazda and say "big deal". My two year old Mazda drives just as good as the luxury cars and after two years it still drives as quiet and firm as the day I bought it. The only exception has been the Lexus 330, but this car is deliberately not billed as a sports sedan so it does have a quieter and softer ride. P.S. The exterior styling of the Mazda it still as good as any of the luxury sports sedans.
