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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  Great auto...well done Mazda! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By M6Drifter - March 13 - 10:00 am

  The car is an amazing four door. I own the V6 3.0L S Sedan model. Mines a 2004. It handles awesome! Better than any of the cars in its class. Its a little underpowered compared to its competitors....my only suggestion to Mazda is to either lighten the car or kick up the Horses about 20 and the torque to where the current horsepower is now (or above). The interior is completely comfortable for myself (Im a 6 foot 4 inches tall guy) so it should be roomy enough for anyone else. Id recommend this car to anyone because of the package for the price. Well done Mazda! Keep up with the Zoom-Zoom.

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  ZOOM ZOOM - FUN - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By A Wills - March 13 - 10:00 am

  MY Mazda6 gets the looks and is fun to drive. I looked at Nissans and Hondas when shopping for a car. The price on my Mazda couldnt be beat.

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  Great - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mk19gunr - March 13 - 10:00 am

  I love my 6.

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  Great Car, think I got a lemon! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By The Mazda 6 Fan - March 12 - 2:10 pm

  Researched two years prior to buying. Handles like a BMW 3 series, but not close to the hp of one. Never enjoyed driving a car this much before. It tackles corners perfectly, gets good gas mileage, and looks spectacular. Overall a great car but Ive it in for service at least 6 times over the 9 months Ive owned it. Nothing major, just this annoying tweedle noise from under the car that they couldnt find. This last time I think they fixed the problem. They had to replace the catalyst converter.

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  A Decent Choice - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mazda Owner - March 8 - 12:43 am

  This car has been great. I have received a lot of comments from young and old on how nice the car looks. I bought the car with the convenience package and love the BSM and the Xenon headlights. I can see the road at night! The seating is comfortable and am pleased with the design and layout of the interior. However, the mpg is a bit disappointing- I average 23 mpg combined (probably because of the way I drive). The performance is ok, there isnt really much of a zoom-zoom, probably because its a 4 cyl. To get up hills at a decent speed, I have to operate at 3500 rpm. One good thing though, the car accelerates pretty quickly. I usually end up leaving cars behind. Its a good car overall.

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  High Miles - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By trepz - March 4 - 1:40 am

  My 2006 Mazda now has over 140,000 miles and running strong. Nothing but routine maintenance. Slight trans slip in 4th gear if driven hard. Still handles beautifully.

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  Great Car! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By ike - March 3 - 11:36 am

  I also purchased the convenience package, Bose/moonroof package as well as the spoiler. Hands down the best sedan on the market. Great options. Comfortable ride. Love the bluetooth, push button start, keyless entry, hid headlamps, Bose, blind spot monitor system, fuel economy and style. Very roomy, auxiliary input, satellite radio. Drove the Altima, Accord, legacy, and Camry, by far the Mazda6 handles the best. Very attractive styling and exterior design. Very attractive interior design with excellent fit and finish. Electroluminescent lighting is a nice touch as well. Acceleration very respectable for a 4 cyl sedan. The trunk is massive. Lets just say its the first sedan I actually wanted to buy

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  Love it! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By michiganman25 - March 1 - 3:55 pm

  Bought my wagon in March 2010 with 100k on the odometer, now has 118k on it and going strong. The not so great: Just replaced shocks and struts, which was not cheap but now she drives like a new car. Ive also replaced a belt tensioner and a power steering line in the year ive had it. The back hatch has always been tricky to open, and i havent been thrilled with the paint quality, but it still looks beautiful when its cleaned up. The good: Runs like a champ, tons of cargo space, nice interior, handles great, awesome bose sound system, and lots of other great options. I get compliments on it all the time, it is one sexy wagon!

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  Good stuff - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By joshua - February 28 - 5:43 pm

  Just a well built and very solid car. Handles well,smooth engine and transmission. First time I have had auto climate control and love it. This feature needs to trickle down to cheaper cars in every brand. You all out there should take a look at this rig.

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  Great Decision - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Aeroman - February 24 - 11:33 pm

  I have had my 6 for 9 months (~9000 miles). Love the exterior and the performance. I am a little disappointed in the fuel economy. I guess I miss my turbo Saab mileage. I have to have the brake rotors replaced as they are already warped even though I am VERY easy on my brakes. The car also seems to have a "niggly" vibration as the engine revs pass through 2500 RPM. Overall the car is a great value, handles well, loads of power, love the engine growl. My original choice was going to be either a BMW 3 series or an Infinity G35 sedan. The Mazda 6 convinced me I didnt need to spend the extra cash to get what I wanted. Great job Mazda.