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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  Awesome Ride! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By BigT - July 2 - 2:13 pm

  I bought this car new and have never regretted it. It is THE best car Ive ever owned and plan on keeping it until the wheels fall off. With 73k miles on it so far the only things Ive done were normal wear and tear items, new brakes, tires and a battery. I did have to have the radio antenna replaced because I knocked the old one off while washing the car. She still looks great and I get lots of comments on how nice it is. Not a rattle on her and she drives like a dream. Its a shame that the big 3 cant build them this good. Sporty style with a very comfortable interior. Im 6 and weigh 280 pounds and am very comfortable in this car.

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  Good Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mazdamigirl - June 29 - 4:35 pm

  I purchased a 2004 Mazda 6 I (automatic not manual) from a dealership with 40 K on it in 2009. Today I have put another 40 K on it and it runs well. Wheels do wear more on the front half, came fully loaded and has traction control and ABS. This is not handy when driving up steep, snow covered/mush hills in the winter. Other than that, found a crack in the windshield but has not leaked into car. Display for CD player is loosing pixels or dots so volume does not display fully sometimes. Other than that, good car, bad with gas due to V6 engine. Newer models have better mileage.

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  Best mid-size family sedan, + extra Zoom - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By ZoomFan - June 29 - 3:00 am

  After totaling our Honda Pilot, we decided to go with a sedan. Vehicles we compared against were Fusion, Malibu, G8, used G35, and Accord. Out of the bunch, we kept coming back to the Mazda6. Heres why: Fun to drive factor: theres no question that this car will be putting smiles on our faces for years to come. Our 13 year old son even says it looks cool. On some back roads in Talledega Forest, this car begged to be driven fast...80+MPH is where this car feels best. Interior design and room: Only the Accord has more room, but the Mazda6 GT definitely has the best options...bluetooth, blind spot monitoring, top quality interior workmanship for this class, and an awesome audio system.

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  If it was only rear wheel drive - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Bryon K. Baer - June 29 - 2:00 am

  My wife love this car.A 6s loaded. She says she is always being asked, "what is it?" Its so beautiful and sleek. I find the car easy on the eyes with nice style. Performance is very good with the 5speed but a 6speed rear drive platform would leave the 3 series BMW in the dust. Seats are ok just alittle to wide and to hard for my back. Could use tighter suspension with less body roll. Bigger sway bars front and rear and a strut bar for the front would do the trick.

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  Love My 6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By lovemy6 - June 29 - 2:00 am

  The Ultimate Sports Sedan

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  03 mazda 6i - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mister mc - June 23 - 2:00 am

  i bought my dark gray 4cylinder 6i in late october 2003 the rebates made it too sweet an offer to pass on...i love everything about the car with the exception of the fact that i bought the automatic instead of the 5speed to ensure better resale or trade in value...i only drive it in manual mode...which actually is a lot more fun than other vehicles i tested with this feature...believe it or not..im thinking about trading up to the v6 5speed fully loaded version...i tested the verona, accord, camry,galant...the 6 won

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  WOW - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By larrybrwn - June 17 - 9:06 am

  Who says you cant have it all in the same package and have it be affordable never owned a Mazda! Way to go guys. Cant wait for my next one. That is if this one ever dies. 80,000 miles on it now and still no problems!

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  Worth the money, big time! - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rob - June 12 - 11:43 pm

  Purchased this car in December of 09. I put about 3000 miles on it, so far and I cant say anything bad about it. The car handles great (put winter tiers on it) in the snow, dry or wet. The Luxury package is worth the money on the GT-i4. I am glad I got this car instead of the Nissan Altima, the Mazda is just a better car overall in my opinion. We drove to Montreal in a snow storm, and we all felt very confident that the car would take us there safely. Nice quiet, firm, stable ride. The Bose sound system with the Centrepoint Surround Sound is great, the Bluetooth, the blind spot monitoring system, the DSP, all great options. Great US built car (it was about time). Well done Mazda!

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  SunShine - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By triley1785 - June 12 - 10:00 am

  I love driving this car. The feel of it on the road and handling. My boyfriend even enjoys riding the car. Im glad I purchase my sunshine.

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  Mazda Fun - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Xinger III - June 12 - 10:00 am

  So far this has been a good decision; the car has enough go to feel safe and sporty. Weve had a couple of minor problems like needing an alignment and the drivers side sun visor losing tension; both we repaired under warranty with no problem. For a car that I paid <$18K it has been a great choice. My wife loves it and I enjoy driving it when we go on trips. I would recommend it without reservation. If I was buying it primarily for me then I would chose the 6 cylinder but the wife likes it because she doesnt need to fill the tank often. When I drive it I find it to have plenty of power, good handling characteristics and it is just plain fun.