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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  love my 6 - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By rickpaul - June 1 - 9:00 am

  If you are looking for a sedan that will do everything well, this is the car. My 6s automatic is fast, agile, comfortable, and loaded with features. I have ridden people in it who own much more expensive cars, (Audi A4, Acura TL, BMW 3 series) and they cant believe how nice it was and how smooth and quiet it was while still being able to eat up an exit ramp. Because the car doesnt represent the least common denominator however, you can get rebates and incentives on it that make it a better deal than a Hyundai or a Mazda3. If you like to drive, and you cant afford a luxury marque, you absolutely cannot go wrong buying this car. Zoomzoom.

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  My just reward - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Michael B. - June 1 - 12:06 am

  I just purchased the iSport on Thursday. WOW... Very fun to drive, great on corners, accelerates good enough for interstate roads and speed limits. The body style is excellent. I love it.

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  Bang For Your Buck - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jeff&Melissa - May 31 - 11:30 pm

  If youre like me and want to have some fun while driving but dont want to pay top dollar to get it, than the Mazda 6 Sport V6 is for you. I test drove every car in its class and some cars above it (much more expensive) and the Mazda outperformed dollar for dollar every time. Ive had mine for a month now and I still have to take a look at it each time I get in or out and think to myself "what a beautiful car"

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  First Mazda - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By samdd - May 29 - 10:36 am

  I owned the 2014 Mazda 6 Touring for about 1 month. Love the exterior styling (grey) with the bright Sand interior. Smooth shifting automatic even if the car is too eager to up shift. Wish there was a sport mode to keep rev higher but you can switch to manual mode. The seat is a bit on the firm side. There is a little more noise than your typical Honda or Toyota. The 19" standard wheel looks great and help with the handling. I owned a V6 Maxima before so I do missed the extra horse powers. Love the MPG, getting around 30-31 mpg on heavy foot.

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  What a nice ride! - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Zach - May 28 - 5:30 am

  I went to over 15 locations to find a Mazda 6 in my area. Now I know why they are so hard to find. This is one of the best mid sized sedans for the buck! I found a beautiful Sonic Blue 2005 Madza i sport 6 sedan and it was a major upgrade from my 94 Olds Cutlass Cierra to say the least. The handling of the Mazda 6 is very good and the speaker system is above average (No Bose). My mother drives an Acura TSX and she wants to trade with me. Bought at 57000 miles. Now at 63000 miles.

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  Just Got 1st 2009 Mazda 6 - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By tuan - May 25 - 1:43 pm

  after doing research for countless hours, days, i finally decided to get the 2009 mazda 6 sedan. The car is beautiful, from outside to inside. I have test drove the new Accord, the new Altima, and I had the new 2009 Camry SE. None of them compare to this car. This car looks better then them all and drives better. I am a little skeptical on the reliability issue, since it isnt Toyota, Honda, or Nissan. But regardless, this car is awesome. it has things that only luxury cars like the BMW or Benz has. I believe this car will put Mazda on the same map with the Hondas, Toyotas, and Nissans.

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  The Family Sedan with Moves - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jonathan - May 24 - 6:30 pm

  This car is the best car that I have ever purchased. It is a blast to drive and the 4 cylinder really gets the job done, especially at high rpms. The design inside is very well thought out and sporty and it is the best looking family sedan that you can buy (the Camry is nice but bland, and the Accord is just ugly and bulky looking). This is the perfect blend of a sporty car and a very capable family sedan. I have had no problems with it whatsoever and I love this car!

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  No Valet Protection! Beware of the Small Things - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By condor2fly - May 18 - 10:04 am

  I have deep buyers remorse. I agree with most of fawning reviews concerning the cars style and how it drives. But oh how I wished Id examined it more carefully for practical lifestyle needs, when I went for that test drive. Subsequently, I was bummed to discover the only way to open and then lock the doors and trunk is to dig my key set with the key fob out of my pocket, rather than pushing a little button. A couple days later I was shocked and mortified to discover that I cannot secure my identity papers or anything in the glove box or the trunk, because theres no valet system whatever--not even a key. I live in Los Angeles, and now I cannot valet, without removing a bunch of things?

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  Best Midsize Sedan - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By dankocke - May 2 - 3:01 pm

  Researched and drove most midsize cars. Nissan Altima is cheapest with the most stuff but extremely bland and a terrible CVT trans. Really liked Passat and Accord but then decided to give the M6 a try. I was instantly impressed with the driving dynamics and the nice interrior. I had a 2008 M6 a couple years back and this one blows it out of the water. I like that I was able to get the Nav package as an add-on. I wanted to keep the price low but I like Nav... and this one DOES have traffic updates. . I have 1000 miles on it and all three tanks have gotten me 33mpg mostly highway commuting. May not be the best deal in terms of incentives, but got $1500 off price plus mil discount.

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  Excellent; luxury car comfort, sports car feel - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By jpedmonds1 - April 29 - 6:12 am

  This car has surpassed all expectations. It is sleek and stylish; I get compliments from strangers. It is the most smooth-driving and responsive family car Ive ever driven, by far. Hands down better than my wifes Camry which I drove for years, and the newer Camrys I test drove recently. Its also comfortable and convenient. Lots of leg room for passengers. The trunk is massive and uniformly shaped, with back seats that fold down almost flat (unlike the Accords which dont fold down at all). Awesome gas mileage, despite the sportiness. Sports mode, which I usually think of as a gimmick, is actually really impressive and gives it even more kick.