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:

• 

  Oil Change Smell - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Nick Piyanto - August 4 - 8:43 am

  Great car, only thing every time I get an oil change, I get a horrible oil smell. I was told its because of the oil filter being so close to the engine pipe. This definitely should been a recall, since I am a great advertisement when my car is smoking right after an oil change during the hot summer months. It does eventually burn off after around 25-50 miles of driving. Makes the garage smell great after an oil change.

• 

  Mazda 6s Sedan blue - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tobias - August 4 - 1:20 am

  Compared to the Mazda MPV I used to drive, this is head and shoulders above that. The acceleration wont win you LeMans, but it is more than sufficient for daily driving needs. In order to get the side impact airbags that my parents so desperately desired, the purchase of the sports and entertainment package was necessary, including Bose sound system with in dash 6 CD changer mounted on and extremely sexy center panel, side skirts, moonroof, and spoiler. The only problem I have had are flat tires, which are extremely expensive to replace. I love the red glow of the instrument panel, and the ergonomics of the drivers side is just great.

• 

  My Mazda 6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Lori - July 27 - 7:10 am

  I like my Mazda 6, its fun to drive, seems reliable, and is a good-looking sedan. Two negatives: 1 .I notice some acceleration hesitancies. 2. Its a thirsty car (high gas consumption).

• 

  3rdTimesACharm - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Cheddar - July 17 - 12:50 pm

  This is the third Mazda Ive owned (my trade in was a 1992 B2600, original owner, with 176,000 and still running strong). This 6 has been a blast to drive. First tank of gas got 28mpg. Good leg room in the back. Weve have 5 people in the car and didnt feel cramped. A 5 speed is the way to go if you drive a manual.

• 

  The Soul of a Miata - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rod - July 10 - 11:10 pm

  Its not often that you can truly haul when hauling stuff. The Mazda6 Sport Wagon handles all situations well. Its quick to respond to driver inputs. And never loses its cool even if the driver is over his head. The controls are all in easy reach, and logical to use. Mazda hasnt made driving a "chore" but a pleasure. Fit and finish have held up in the Arizona heat, and the automatic climate control is spot on.

• 

  No auto car wash + auto car cover only cons - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Suresh Nandiraju - July 7 - 5:06 am

  I have this car for a month now. The mileage right now I get is solid 30mpg (highway and city combined). I expect it to be even more when driven properly, not using the fun manual transmission (MT) and accelerating like crazy. MT is a blast in this mid size "sports" sedan. I was very much attracted towards the sporty look of this sedan. The drive is comfort. Brakes are awesome. And there is great acceleration when you need it. I recommend this over any other compact car that people may be buying especially when they are spending too much money on compact car. This car is not that big as other mid size sedans. Its the perfect size for people up to six and a half foot tall.

• 

  Fun Car - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rich - July 5 - 8:36 am

  I have owned the car for 6 months and no problems. Fun to drive, enough power for around town and great mileage. Plenty of room for two full size golf bags in trunk probably three.

• 

  Whats not to like ? - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By 40thomas - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Have put 2200 miles on a new 03 purchased 1/2004. Dealer went $300 below invoice, and we got $2500 rebate to boot. The car is beautiful, does everything very well. The 4 banger wont blow you away, but were running better than 30mpg and having a LOT more fun than with, say, an Accord. DO NOT pass up a chance to stir the gears on Mazda 5sp manuals - best shifter/tranny combo around, and placed exactly where your hand naturally falls. BTW the 5sp goes a long ways toward making the 4 cyl a performance car - it revs freely, expecially above 3500rpm where it realy wants to take off.

• 

  Gotta Love the 6 - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Michelinas25 - June 30 - 2:00 am

  When I decided to buy a car in June of 2003, I looked first at the Nissan Altima, 2003 then looked at all the cars in its class :the Acura RSX, Honda Accord, Mazda6,... . That is when I saw the "6". I narrowed down my selection between all of these to the Mazda6 and Altima;based on the size & features. So I drove them both again. I found that the 6 is a great size sedan, perfect rooming yet sporty. It hugged all the curves better than the Altima and just handled so smoothly.

• 

  Fantastic 6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By meiro - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Extremely well built, alot of features for the money. Very comfortable, tons of space. Great appearance with sport package, sport grill. Bose system is A+. Luminous gauges are beautiful! Really an exceptional automobile. Looked at the Acura TCX, Audi A4, VW Passat, Saab 9-3. V6 is smooth and very quick.