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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  Overall good car for the money - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Brandon - May 15 - 3:56 am

  So far, so good. Car went back to the dealer for a steering pull. Theres a TSB about it, and it was corrected. No other problems. Its nice both inside and out.

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  Mazda6 is OK, not Perfect - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Stewart Crawford - May 14 - 2:00 am

  Generally peppy performance, but low- RPM torque not what I expected andcar has disappointing fuel mileage. Only average 19-20. My car is automatic, not manual.

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  Great Car For The Money - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By T W - May 12 - 3:46 am

  Overall this car drives and handles very Honda like. Great fit and finish for a car in this class. The clutch is a little too grabby while shifting from 1st to 2nd and sometimes 3rd gear when car is cold. If not careful (under emergency acceleration), the clutch will give off a burning smell (probably needs to be made of a better/harder material). My local dealership has had a couple of complaints on this same issue. It just may be a Mazda thing. Other than that, wish it had at least 15 more horses, and more space for "do it yourselfers" to change the bulbs in the headlight assembly. After the warranty is over, no more free bulb replacements!

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  Bad Choice - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tamhicks10 - May 3 - 11:33 pm

  After a lot of research, I was dead set on purchasing a 2003 Mazda 6S. I found my dream car, fully loaded and after 6 months, had nothing but problems with it. I am the second owner and it had a clean record. I take care of my cars. My Mazda has blown spark plugs (now has helicoils) and at 59,000 miles, my transmission has just gone out. There was no warning. So now I am looking at a $2K-$3K repair. I love the look and feel of the ride so I always repaired and kept the car. I now want it gone. I would not recommend this car to anyone. Go with something reliable..Honda or Toyota.

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  Horrible Car! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Horrible Car! - May 3 - 9:46 pm

  First off, I love to drive this car, its a lot of fun. But, I hate to own this car. It is the worst car I have ever owned. It only has 33,000 miles and Ive had to have two sensors replaced, a transmission replaced, have the wiring and lightbulb under the cup holder adjusted because the lightbulb burnt a hold in the cup holder. Its just been one thing after another with this car. I was on the fence between an Accord and this car. I wish I would have gone with the Accord, because I would have a reliable car with good resale rather than a car about to fall apart. I will NEVER buy a Mazda again, and I will tell everyone I know to be wary, they are awful!

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  Mazda6 I Sport Soul Red - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By svminn - April 29 - 11:51 am

  1st. TY to all the reviewers, I read before I purchased. As others have covered a nice looking car and handles well. I like the car but some things to look at that you many not notice on a test drive. Note these are the cloth seats in the sport. The height and lean mechanisms seem cheap. There are big gaps in the adjustment levels. I found it hard to find a comfortable seating position. Check the fit for you on a long drive. The OS mirrors are set back more than any car I have driven and take some getting used to. A plus for me = you can turn off the AC in defrost mode and you contol if air is circulated from outside or in

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  Great fun, great value - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jimmy - April 23 - 10:10 am

  A low priced car, the 5 speed 160 HP engine is well matched to the gearbox. Quick acceleration, good handling, decent top end for a car that cost less the $20K. Nice looking, though silver is bland at best. Like the rear end appearance but the front end has a cheesy pseudo-chrome strip over the grill I dont like. Ive had it for a year - no problems to speak of. Though the kick panel fuse box cover is a poor design. Compared with the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla and the Mazda 6 was bigger, more powerful, roomier and more fun than the other two.

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  Snow whites alright - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By hugdeath - April 21 - 2:00 am

  The fact that u cannot add an aftermarket head unit without a ton of modifications is nuts! The engine sounds really sweet. "NEEDS MORE LOW END TORQUE!!!!! My kick panels continue to come aloose without provocation. I dont care what the reviews say, the back seat is comfy. Im 62", 305 lbs and I dont have a problem. The standard stereo is decent. The steering is pleasant.The suspension gives when pushed but takes a lot to break. I try on a consistent basis. Climate control works fine. Why can a Mazda 3 owner get navigation but I cant get it in the bigger car???? Ive written to Mazda and they basically said , no get over it. Needs more aftermarket support. An absolute steal!

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  Mazda 6 drinks + than I do, big problem - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By stanstill30 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I just bought a brand new mazda 6 2004. Performance exceptional. Only two things... first it drink more than I do. Also cant get warmed when temperature exceed -20 c°. Beside that I cant ask for more from a sport sedan.

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  Wonderful wagon - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mb - March 23 - 6:36 am

  I purchased this car last October and have loved every minute of driving it so far. Its fun and practical, what a combination! Holds lots of gear and is terrific to drive. Ive even been pleasantly surprised at how well its handled in the snow so far. Great value -- I got leather, moonroof, Bose stereo, all for much less than I expected.