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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  Nice car with some problems - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Sean - January 29 - 6:16 pm

  Alternator went at 67,000 miles 400.00 to replace. Check engine light kept coming on. Some kind of problem with bank 1 whatever that means. The car finally kept stalling. The problem was a PCV Valve hose which the only way to change it is the intake manifold has to come off. Well the hose is 10.00 from Mazda but its 300.00 for labor. Also at 69,000 miles the tranny started slipping. Bottle of Lucas solved that. Its 3800 to replace tranny. Very nice car but has a lot of bugs

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  Zoom Zoom with Room!! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Glenn F - January 26 - 12:56 pm

  I was a previous Mazda owner years ago, currently a BMW owner. I had been reading about the totally redesigned 2009 Mazda 6 coming out for months now, so when my wife was looking to replace her 2002 BMW 530, I said lets take a quick look at the 2009 Mazda 6 first. Well she loved it and we bought it. With the new "6", Mazda continues to move closer to having the most exciting lineup of any manufacturer today. Exterior looks very Lexus like ( especially from the back). The interior room has been increased dramatically and the truck is huge. With the bigger engine, it has plenty of power. Bose sound system rocks. At around 30K, there is no better value for the money. Initial enjoyment is off the charts.

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  Amazing ride - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Ra - January 24 - 8:20 pm

  Love this car! Have been driving since April and it is now mid September. I cant tell you how many times I am stopped by people who ask about my car. Not only does it look sweet, it drives like a dream - very smooth and fun! Best part is the roomy interior. I have two very tall teenagers who sit comfortably in the back as well as a very large trunk space. The 12 speaker Bose sound system sounds very good as well.

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  Zoom Zoom - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Phil - January 24 - 2:26 am

  Im sold on Mazda. Bought S Grand Touring after owning a Progete5 for 8 years. It truely is the poor mans Lexus getting many extras for far less than a comparable equipped Lexus or Infinity. So far Im very happy; going on three months of ownership. I believe I got every option available so the as I added options it got a little pricey but I think worth it.

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  An alternative to Lexus - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By XLEX MAN - January 24 - 2:06 am

  Just purchased the Mazda 6 after driving a 1998 Lexus ES 300 for 9 years. I could not find a car that came close at all to the Lexus until now. The Mazda 6 is that car, it beats out all the other bland cars on the road to date. Everyone considering a sedan should consider test driving one.

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  Zoom Zoom Again!! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Donnie - January 13 - 12:56 pm

  I bought this Mazda 6 as an upgrade from my Mazda 3. This car is unbelievable. Not only is it fun to drive, but the ride is out of this world. You get it all in this Mazda 6, comfort, luxury, eye catching and dont forget the Zoom Zoom. I looked and test drove 3 other cars (Infiniti G37, VW Passat CC & Toyota Venza) This car beats them 9 out of 10 categories. If you are looking for a new car I would recommend you take this Mazda 6 for a ride...You will not be disappointed

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  Awsome Mazda6 - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Matt - January 12 - 5:00 pm

  I have now owned the Mazda6 for almost a year now and I have 11,200 miles on it. I still love to drive the Mazda6 to work every day. My Mazda6 is averaging 22 city/29 highway in gas mileage. I am very pleased with the gas mileage for all the power. I have not had any problems with the car. It has performed very well. The Mazda has a lot of quality that I enjoy. The 5 star crash test rating gives me a peace of mind. The blind spot monitor system is awesome. Love the rain sensing windshield wipers. What can I say; I love everything the Mazda6 offers.

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  Mazda Cars Rock - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Raymond - January 11 - 5:56 pm

  I love this car. I cant say enough nice things about the car. I love it so much I just purchased the Mazda 3 also. These cars rock. I think that says it all.

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  Mazda gets it right.!! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rick - January 11 - 2:03 pm

  Well, all I can say is WOW!! I traded in a 2006 RX8 Shinka, and besides the obvious loss of power, I dont regret it a bit. If you put the car up against its competition you have to come up with the Mazda 6. Hands down. I havent had the car but a couple weeks, and everyone at work is like nice car, what is it? Now they know. Whats not to love? Thank you Mazda. Keep doing what your doing. People are watching. This is one happy customer. ZOOM-ZOOM!!

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  Outstanding - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By alexv - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Ive racked up 2600 miles so far, and my Mazda 6s automatic hasnt disappointed me yet. Performance, particularly road feel, is on par with its german counterparts (A4, 325). The auto transmission is flawless and rarely lets me know its shifting except under hard throttle. Gas mileage has been about 20mpg around town, 25+ on the highway. Best of all, its the only 6s in my town so I still get lots of looks wherever I drive it.