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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  Good value - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Bob - March 30 - 7:53 am

  I have owned my car for 18 months and have enjoyed the experience. Fun to drive and very sporty. Comfortable over the long trip. I just bought new tires after 43,000 miles as I plan to keep this one for a while longer.

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  My first five thousand miles - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Stan Mendoza - March 28 - 3:00 pm

  This car is fun to drive! The power band of the V6 is excellent as well as the five speed manual transmission. Getting on and off freeways is fun!! The sport package is well worth the extra bucks.The comfort of the leather seats is perfect for me, and all that have driven with me. My 2001 Honda Accord is boring to drive compared to the Mazda Sport Wagon, so far so good on my first Mazda product!

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  hot mazda - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By jvjvjvj - March 25 - 10:00 am

  Very nice car,good quickness,handling, and stopping power. A little cheap on the inside, I am used to Hondas and Acuras. Makes wind noise at highway speeds, but a fine car for the money I paid. I would buy a Mazda again.

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  Remarkable - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By kev1954 - March 24 - 8:23 am

  Ive owned numerous vehicles, this one is thus far the best. Great curb appeal, Fun to drive and classy. Performance is beyond its class.

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  Mazda 6 s (V6) - get an Acura or Honda - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By MAS__ - March 24 - 2:00 am

  Loved my car when I first bought it. Within a few months I received the first recall notice. Then a month later, my colling fan was making an awful sound. Then a few months later... the second recall. The dealer now does not issue a "loaner" or rental car when you take it in for service...unless its through a recall. (Even if its a warranty thing... no loaner.) Not good. I should have stuck with Acura.

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  Mazda Does It Big Time! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Barry626 - March 23 - 9:40 am

  Ive owned 17 new cars in 35 years of driving. This is truly my top 2 car besides my BMW. Car rides flawless & quality is just terrific! I bought my car loaded with sound & navigation packages. Everything works just perfect as it should! I traded my 08 Nissan Coupe & have zip regrets! Anyone that has a bad thing to say is down right jealous or cant afford it!

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  Pleased with the selection - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By 1stMazda - March 22 - 4:43 pm

  Shopped extensively before selecting the Mazda6 and so far I am very pleased. Compared Nissan, Chevy, Hyundai, Pontiac, Honda. For the features, performance, comfort, luxury, size, and styling, the 6 was hard to beat. Mostly mixed driving so far and mpg is holding steady at 24.5 mpg. I have to admit the power out of the 4 cyl is quite impressive. Am hoping for CAI and oil filter options to be available soon. Would highly recommend this car if you are in the market.

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  Great Car - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By zoomzoom - March 20 - 9:40 am

  I love this car. I had the 03 4 cylinder and traded it in for the 05 with a V6 and it makes a world of difference. I liked that car, I love this one. With the V6, traction control, ABS and side airbags it is sporty, fast, safe and I wont get lost in the crowd.

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  love it - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Davids Lyre - March 18 - 10:00 am

  Best car Ive ever owned

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  First Four Door - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By misskel82 - March 18 - 10:00 am

  Rides smoothly. Takes bumps great. Awesome Bose sound system. Not fast from the take off, but overall, quick. Nice options. Would of been nice if the homelink was more user friendly and the buttons werent so confusing. Came from a Z28 to the Mazda 6.