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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  Best Mid-Sized Sedan - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Andrew - November 29 - 5:00 pm

  I got the Mazda 6 iTouring with convenience package. I looked at the Accord, Camry, Altima, Fusion, and Jetta - Mazda 6 is at the top of its class. The only other car I was considering was the Accord, but I found the Mazda to have better overall value for the money, and the exterior/interior styling is a bit better. The speed, ride, and handling of this car is excellent. I find myself taking fast turns for no reason because its simply just fun to do. The quietness of the car is very good - my dad, who has drives Mercedes, was even impressed with the quietness. If youre looking at the Touring model, I would highly suggest the convenience package - excellent value for the money.

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  Not sure what to expect, but now happy - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By The Saint - November 27 - 7:26 pm

  I transitioned from a European larger mid-size sedan (VW Passat TDI) to the Mazda6. He interiors are compatible in set up, luxury, & equipment positioning. The interior is well thought out and for the driver as well as passengers. The exterior is exceptional in appearance. The car handled like a dream in very heavy snow this past winter. The 4 cyl. is way under powered and the fuel economy is average when compared to my wifes 4 cyc Accord. The ac system is a bit weak and takes a long time to cool the interior compartment. Mazda seems to like the black interiors and I found it difficult to find a light interior. For the do-it-yourselfer, the vehicle is a delight. A value thus far.

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  Fun to dirve - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jay Park - November 26 - 6:56 am

  I bought it at the dealership without test driving since I rented one before while my day-to-day-driving Honda Pilot was at the shop for repair from a collision. I drove it down to LA from SF Bay Area and kinda like the automatic transmission that can also be in manual mode. By the way, the one that I bought was Mazda6 i SP for better gas mileage. I tend to get around 26 to 27 in city and hwy combined. Significant reviews from this site noted problems on brake and transmission and I kinda worry about it if mine starts with same problem like others. So far so good. Who knows.

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  2004 Mazda 6 s 3.0l v6 with sport packag - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By doughery9001 - November 23 - 2:00 am

  The best thing about the 2004 mazda 6 is the styling. with the dual crome exaust the euro style tail lights and large lighted rear wing the vehical has a very agressive look. The sport package is a must!!! the only small regret i have about my M6 is getting the V6 with the sport package and getting the automatic transmision. With the sporty car i think i would have enjoyed the manual, also increasing the 0-60 time down to 6.9 sec. the Mazda i purchased was fully equiped with heated leather seats and the bose audio package which is execellent.i highly recommend this vehical for anyone not looking for the tipcal honda or toyota.

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  Im in love with this vehicle! - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Anthony - November 21 - 10:06 am

  Purchased the vehicle used first week of March. 46,800 miles at purchase. So far I have put about 750 miles on the vehicle and I have to say - I love this car after only owning it for 3 weeks. One word of warning - if youre single and have a computer building background, this car may make you want to customize or "tune" it to at least an extent.

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  A Winner! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Queen Mum - November 18 - 10:00 am

  I was thinking of buying a 2004 when I went ot the dealership. I came across a pristine 2003 and took a test drive. SOLD! I have the i model and find its power more than adequate. A solid feeling can that rides like its on rails. Quality in and out is first rate. This is my first Mazda, and my first Japanese car and it wont be my last. A winner for sure.

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  Just purchased - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By CRalston - November 18 - 10:00 am

  I have just purchased the automobile and am extremely happy with it. I got it for an excellent price and the car is extremely fun to drive. The one thing I am not too fond of is the one- piece dash panel. I have never owned a car where I didnt customize the stereo unit!

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  Hoped for More - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By letrbuk - November 16 - 6:16 am

  The 6 is a sharp looking little car. Get behind the wheel and the V6 gets you up and moving promptly. Throttle response is quick, though if pressed too hard the engine is prone to rev hard in search of power. The 6 speed auto is especially fun in manual mode, but the close ratios make shifting a busy job. Fuel economy does not appear to reap the benefits of 6 gears, no matter who is shifting. Heading down the road/highway, however, subtle hints creep in that this is not the "touring" car its package advertises. Road noise is fairly high and presents a stiff challenge to the meager standard stereo. The ride, while absolutely stable, is not necessarily smooth and is tiresome on extended trips.

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  My Best Car Yet! Zoom Zoom! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By rgmckenz - November 13 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Mazda and Ive got to say, this is a fantastic automobile! The exterior design is best in class (looks great in Onyx Black Mica) and the interior is clean and functional. Controls are well placed, a majority of which can be activated from the backlit steering wheel buttons. The engine seems a bit weak at the start of acceleration, but kicks in nicely later on in the cycle. The handling is superb! If youre into space, the 5-door gives you as much room as the sport wagon with the rear seats folded down. The best part is that Mazda listened to the suggestions and complaints of 626 owners and corrected them in the Mazda6. Zoom Zoom!

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  mazda6 ratings - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By bxm46 - November 13 - 10:00 am

  Wholly satisfied so far; combination of performance and price is tough to exceed