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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  Fun, practical, could be more efficient - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By 1st time Mazda man - August 5 - 5:03 pm

  This car is fun to drive and the hatchback version is very practical. A few things could have been better, like auto window buttons but this is a fine car and has been very reliable. The average gas mileage is probably only 19 mpg so this is probably the biggest shortcoming I can find.

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  Safety Problem- Check! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By melindaw1 - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I have a major safety defect and Id encourage everyone to check for this: No ignition lock system. I can leave the car in drive and remove the key. Mine rolled due to this and nearly took off the back driver-side door. Mazda manufacturing says they wont pay for the damages because its not a "known defect." Anyway- check for this, as its a VERY dangerous defect. Were all used to an ignition lock system that forces you to put the car in park before removing the key. My son could have been seriously injured.

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  Very good car with some flaws - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tom L - July 27 - 1:46 am

  Quick for an automatic, but the automatic makes the car a lot less fun. Beware of the bumpy and harsh ride, probably due to low profile tires. If you are 22, maybe it wont matter to you, but Im 42 and find it annoyingly harsh. I bought the 5 door S model with 6 speed auto stick. Its my first automatic in 20 years, so maybe thats why I find it lacking. The car seems solid, and handles great. I wish that I could have gotten the 5 door without the sport package. I also hate the orange gauges (maybe the age thing again). Even with Bose package, the stereo sounds tinny at lower volume even compared to my 98 Maxima SE. Heater never seems to blow hot air even when set at 75.

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  Great Car for the Money - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By mr_mastick - July 11 - 5:23 am

  I purchased my Mazda6 two years ago with just under 60,000 miles on it. I now have 98,000 on the odometer and (knocking on wood) have not had a single issue with the vehicle. Not one. I leased a brand new 328i prior to owning this vehicle and had more problems under 15,000 miles. All in all, for what it is, it has been great. Manual transmission makes up for the lack of oomph provided by the I-4. Interior is comfortable, and well laid out. Steering feel is great. While not a sport sedan, I sure as he!! drive it like one and given the horrible 700 tread wear rated tires, the limit is not far off so it is great fun, really. I am actually surprised by all the negative ratings.

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  MAZDA6 i hatch - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By natural - July 3 - 10:53 pm

  Lots of features in an attractive package. Reliability unfortunately has declined just as Consumer Reports has indicated in the 6. Throttle problems and now a malfunction in the Bose stereo. A few rattles as well. My previous 90 MX-6 GT was a better car, actually the best car I ever owned. May trade it for a Toyota. I bought it due to the safety ratings.

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  Cant Beat a Mazda - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By MazdaFan - June 30 - 3:33 am

  Holds up to the roughest of treatments and keeps on going. I drive in incredibly difficult traffic situations when timing and skill are important. Hit the gas and it goes. Stops on a dime in all kinds of weather. Repair costs are minimal and the dealerships are impeccable. Cars are a necessary evil for me. Mazda is low cost and low maintenance kicks but when you hit the gas. Ive owned the Mazda Protege orginally and now the Mazda6 have never been disappointed. The Protege went 178,000 miles before I sold it and I expect this one to go as far! BTW, the only major repair on the Protege in 178k mi was the exhaust pipe. Wahoo!

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  Mazda 6 - Fun to drive! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Lou - June 26 - 2:30 pm

  Ive had a Mazda6 for a little more than a year. Ive been pleased to say the least. I have the Bose sound system, the spoiler, the sun roof and all the extras and its the Sonic Blue colored vehicle. The car has the pick up and go youd expect from a sports car and had the comfort and reliability youd come to expect from any automobile. The car is quiet, drives well, has great pickup and a sleek look. Definitely a fun car to drive no matter how far your going!

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  Good car overall - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By JustBoughtMazda - June 24 - 6:13 pm

  Bought a Mazda6 iTouring with Convenience package, includes Bluetooth, leather trimmed seats, power driver seat, Blind Spot Monitoring system, Dual climate control, steering mounted audio controls, HID headlights, tire pressure monitor, Information display which shows MPG, temperature, time, miles remaining, etc. Inspection not due for another 4 years. Build quality of the car is great. Instrumentation panel is sleek. Definitely has sporty appearance. Cant comment too much on the ride right now b/c I bought it today. Driver seat is not the most comfortable, but it might take some getting used to. I will post again after I have put some mileage on the car.

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  Initial thoughts - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By choppa - June 23 - 3:00 am

  Previous Honda Accord owner who in the end was looking for something a little bit different. With the latest Consumer Reports Auto edition praising the new Accord, along with my bias towards Honda, I was sure I would end up in a new 2013. Driving what everyone else drives wasnt a big concern to me. However, I took the time to get to know the redesigned Mazda 6. There were many positives - styling, interior look/quality (especially on GT), EASY to use tech features, fun to drive factor, innovative skyactive engine, chasis, tranny (for those not into CVTs) and Mazda reputation for quality. In the end, there was enough to push me in a new direction. Time will tell but I like it so far.

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  Ok, I guess - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Admoc - June 17 - 10:03 pm

  I traded my Mazda6 i Sport for this new GT V6 model thinking it would be much better. I was thrilled with my 4 cylinder car, and I really cannot notice much more zoom-zoom in this new one, unless Im going up a hill. Nice new features that can be found in luxury cars. Gas mileage is horrible even reving the car low with a stick shift, but it was to be expected coming from Mazda. Everyone admires my car. Although I would recommend getting a GT I with 4 cylinder instead of an S with a V6.