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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  Mazda6 - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Lisakaye - November 18 - 12:00 am

  You just cant beat this car on quality and performance....... Last car was a 05 mazda6. These are great cars. The 09 and up are bigger inside. (I didnt care) they are just great cars. Fast smooth reliable. And people will stare at the car wherever you go. Esp. The 09-10 models. People ask all the time "what kind of car is it?". Im sure Mazda would like everyone on the road in one. But it is kind of Nice that they are not everywhere. Makes them unique to drive. Dang how many times do I see a Camry or altima on the road? constantly. Would I Rather have one? no! We tested cars for 6 months before we got this one. You just cant beat it. Zoom zoom zoom. By the way. Its my third Mazda.

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  Love at first Zoom - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By ZoomZoom-NC - November 16 - 9:06 pm

  As a family we needed a third vehicle to cover our increasing transportation needs. We own a van and an SUV and thought a sedan would balance out the family vehicle situation. We bought this car after realizing that though many Civics and Camrys out there would certainly do, many were abused by their previous owners and made for a pretty shabby used car. The local Mazda dealer explained how Mazda owners tend to have a special bond with their car and treat it nicer, and after about a week with the Mazda6 I could completely understand why. Ill never buy from another car manufacturer again. Even though its a rock bottom base model, it still evokes some jealousy in my friends. They cant tell.

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  Wagon o sports - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mike St - November 14 - 12:26 am

  I have had way too many cars first off. This one ranks in the top 3 or 4. I recently acquired it from my wife a few months ago as we thought she needed a minivan again. This car drives absolutely awesome, a little soft on low rpm power. Handles better than many "sports" cars. Great brakes. Solid quality feel. Loaner car during service is great. I avg 23mph, 27-28 on road trip in the mountains. Bose is great. It just feels right to me.

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  Sports car handling with a pratical side - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By KF - November 9 - 1:20 am

  If youre looking for something with great visual appeal and thats more fun-to-drive than any other mid-sized sedan in this segment, this is your car. Best of all, the hatchback design looks great while offering more cargo space than any other vehicle in this class. Ive driven this vehicle over 10,000 miles since new and have had no mechanical problems (though the roof liner sagged slightly on drivers side, but was replaced at no charge). Really a drivers car; some might find the seating a bit tight, esp. in the back (compared to other sedans), but not a problem for me. I still look for any excuse to drive this car!

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  A real sports sedan - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jon - November 8 - 6:33 am

  After driving a variety of Ford Tauruses, I bought the 6s (auto) after I test drove a lot of other cars. A few other cars have a slight edge (Nissan Altima and Honda Accord; similar models) with 0-60, but the overall handling, comfort, styling, and feel of the 6 blows the competition out of the water. The 6 is simply amazing to drive. It grips the road like a real sports car, and has the room of a sedan. The interior, comfort, exterior design, sound system, and general layout are all excellent. The tiptronic shift on the 6-speed automatic is a great compromise for someone who likes manual cars, but does a lot of city driving. Highly recommended, especially for younger (20s) drivers.

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  Fun and practical - 2012 Mazda Mazda6
  By hutch7 - November 6 - 11:09 am

  Honestly I was looking for a 3 but with all the incentives the 6 was a better deal. I like the looks, comfort and driving dynamics. The interior is comfortable and ergonomic. I love the 6M tranny, shifts easily and the clutch is pretty much perfect. My son keeps asking to borrow the keys and take it out (hes learning to drive a stick). So far so good.

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  Best value I could find - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By SGR - November 6 - 7:10 am

  I did not find any other make that offers power driver seat in the trim without leather. I think Ive found the best value car on the market. Mazda6 has very distinct appearance, very comfy interior with infinitely adjustable seats, and nice driving experience. From other hand, MPG is lower than Ive expected

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  Still in love after 45k - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By sbronemann - November 4 - 6:44 am

  Have managed 32.6 MPG over 45k so far. Love the handling-it is a blast to drive. Could use a bit more HP. The transmission is flawless. Its nice to actually have a 6-speed instead of a CVT junk. Stock tires are junk. Opted to get 18" rims and 245/45/18 tires instead and the ride quality has improved a bit. Just a blast to drive and the MPG is a huge bonus. Have gotten a best tank of 578 miles and 37.9 MPG. Would be happy to answer any questions as I have one of the highest mileage 2014s out there according to www.fuelly.com from what I have seen.

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  Best Sports Sedan for the Money - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By SJB1 - October 28 - 2:00 am

  The Mazda-6s by far is the best sports sedan for the money. I just traded in a 2001 Nissan Maxima that I paid 5 thousand dollars more for and this car blows it away in every category. The reviews and ratings on this car speak for themselves. Very highly rated automobile and well deserved. It also has a 4 year 50,000 mile bumber to bumber warranty.

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  Finally feel like a Dad! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By gdogmoney - October 23 - 10:20 pm

  I bought this car with a 2-year old son in mind. I needed a four door car with a little sportiness to it. I found it in the 2009 Mazda 6. I was impressed with the overall design of this car. I considered it better than the American cars I saw on the road. It had the right amount of power for my taste and the amenities are extraordinary. I got the iTouring with the Bose system, it has some kick. The 2.5 4 suits me fine, but the fuel economy was a little lacking, but thats ok. The quality and design are the reason I got this car and I left the dealer feeling pretty satisfied.