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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  Lovin It - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Shahoo - February 22 - 10:00 am

  Have always had Honda Accords (5 to be exact) and decided I didnt want to be like my grandparents who always bought the same car, so I started looking at other vehicles. This cars style is like no other 4-door sedan. It loured me in immediately. Was a bit leary of a Mazda because of the Ford ownership issue, but decided to give it a try. I have a black on black sports package and have loved it since the day I bought it! Ive had absolutely no problems with the vehicle and get great gas mileage. It is a bit noiser than the Accord, but its more sportier, too. Its not your mothers car. I love it!

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  This car saved my life - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By chahn89 - February 21 - 9:40 am

  I bought this car used, 2009 mazda 6, i bought it 2010 with 38,000 miles, throughout the time it needed simple changtes like breaks n tires n oil but nothin g to big, in 2011 i was hit from the front and both sides and iw as able to walk away from it alive, when everyone including police and paramedics said they had no idea how that happened. GREAT CAR! go mazdaaaaaa :)

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  Smooth Rider - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Abe - February 20 - 10:00 am

  I originally wanted to purchase the Mazda 5 but my wife wanted a Sedan not a van. So I went with the Mazda 6 and so far I really like it. This is the first Mazda that I have purchased. It rides very smooth, looks very sporty and has pretty good pick up for a 4 cylinder car. The rear seat can sit 3 adults comfortably. The Mazda 6 is an excellent value for the price.

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  Money Pit! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Robert - February 13 - 7:36 am

  I bought this car at 45,000 miles. Car looked great and seamed to be in good running order. That was a joke. Ive had the car for just under a year and had to have it towed to the dealership three days ago because the motor just gave out. I bought the extended warranty when I bought the vehicle so it should be covered right? Wrong... They are trying to stick us with the bill because they say a motor just cant go out like that we had to do something to it. What a mess. If you but a Mazda6, Be careful. You get what you pay for. My next vehicle will be another Honda.

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  Be careful over 100k - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By rsavasta - February 13 - 1:21 am

  I purchased my 05 Mazda 6 in 2007 with 20k miles. The car ran great, had lots of pep and was very reliable. After 120k miles I started noticing the oil level going down with no noticeable oil leak. It eventually would not start and when I brought it to the dealer they found that the valve seals were leaking and the PVC valve was blowing oil into the cylinders as well as the throttle body. After having the those 3 things replaced and spending $1500, it is running fine. Perhaps this is considered routine maintenance or the dealer ripped me off so beware.

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  Quiet, smooth riding car if you just ask - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By chaz56 - February 13 - 12:30 am

  I am hearing impaired and need a quiet car. Many of the reviews on the Touring and Grand Touring models complain about a rough loud ride. I have found that most dealers are willing to swap out the 19 inch wheels for the 17 inch wheels for about $100 - (it should be free). You just have to ask. This tradeoff of performance for a quieter smoother ride is worth it. Once you take care of the noise, the car a great cruiser.

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  So glad I chose the 6 over the Taurus - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Seablazer - February 7 - 10:00 am

  Pros: one of the best looking cars on the road today, great features (mine is fully loaded, minus remote start), and an overall extremely fun ride. Cons: none, well, just wish Ford would have allowed cooled seats to be put into the 6.

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  Getting better all the time... - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Ian - February 4 - 4:40 pm

  Further to my post of Aug 23, Ive now covered 1500 miles and had a longer time to evaluate this really good car. I congratulate your reviewers, as their previous comments were spot on. I got over $4250 off the price by the way. Im getting 21.5 mpg around town and 25 on a run with clearish roads. The braking and steering is brilliant. If I have to avoid an accident, I cant think of anything Id sooner be in then a Mazda 6. Its built in the USA too! Back seat splits and folds (Honda please copy) Runs on regular fuel (Nissan V6s please copy) Stability control standard (Nissan please copy). 215 55x17 tires are so much more sensible than the previous 45x18s (with our appalling roads)

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  THE REAL DEAL ZOOMER - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By WEAZEL - February 4 - 10:00 am

  MAZDA HIT IT BIG WITH THE 6S. I LOVE IT. FROM ITS SLEEK LOOK TO IT POWERHOUSE PROFORMANCE. I HAVE A 1995 FORD THUNDERBIRD WITH A V8. THE ACCELERATION IN TH MAZDA BLOWS THE TBIRD AWAY. MY ONLY COMPLAINT IS THAT TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE BLINDED BY THE HONDA ACCORDS. THE MAZDA 6S IS WELL PRICED AND LOADED WITH OPTIONS. THANKS MAZDA. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

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  Small Sacrifices for an Excellent Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Donnie V. - February 4 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a 2004 Mazda 6i this month (actually week) and have put over 1000 miles on it. It is ONYX Black with black cloth interior, sport package with spoiler, 17" wheels and Bose Audio Package. First I have to say that I love almost everything about the car. My only problems are:1)The cloth used in the door inserts is rough and has no padding underneith it making for soar arms if you wear short sleeve shirts. 2) Despite seats that adjust up/down, forward/back and recline and a tilt & telescoping wheel it is hard to find a comfortable position and still be able to read the speedo. Other than these minor quibbles the car is awesome!