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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  Zoom zoom, with a good price - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Charlie5 - December 10 - 10:13 pm

  I bought my black 2006 Sport i 4 door for quite a good price with some hard bargaining. It is a fun drive to say the least. Took it on some mountain roads, and its low stiff suspension was a blast to drive. The Triptronic transmission that comes with the 5-speed auto is fun to drive. The car shifts through the first 2 gears real fast, and in its 5th gear overdrive, its smooth and quiet. Its quiet overall, and feels much more solid around turns compared to the Accord I tried. It hugs the road and is well balanced. Even at 160hp it is still accelerates fast and takes over other cars on the highway with ease, and fun.

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  Very solid first car - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By D.A. - December 6 - 12:43 am

  I recently got this as my first "own" car, Im graduating from college soon, and decided to invest in good, newer car that would last me a while. Bought this one with 11k miles. I was attracted by the styling, and after the test drive, I was hooked. The dual exhaust, rear lights, low-profile tires all look awesome for a car at this price. It drives great on the highway and in the city. The handling is very very good, acceleration smooth, and I havent had any mechanical issues with it so far. I liked it a lot better than the other cars I tried: Toyota Camry, Suzuki Verona, Pontiac Grand Prix, Pontiac GT. Hondas were all too expensive, so I didnt get to try them. Mazda6 is simply great!

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  You have to love the Zoom Zoom - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Aaron - December 5 - 6:53 pm

  Amazing car. Responsive, agile, and fun to drive - stock. I have gotten numerous comments on the car, at the bank, grocery store, etc. Its distinctive styling and acceleration make this a car to be proud of wherever you go. You really have to watch your speed in this car. I have found myself creep up to 90+ on the freeway without noticing it. After owning my Mazda6 only 18 days, I was struck from behind while sitting at a stoplight. The other driver hit us at 50 mph. Our Mazda held up amazingly well with relatively minor damage considering the impact - and no frame damage!

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  ZOOMIN - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Larry Smyth - December 5 - 1:33 am

  A tight, down to earth car with great road handling capabilities. The transmission is smooth, plenty of power under the hood and I love the 18 inch wheels and low profile Pirellis. What a great bang for the buck!

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  Style, Value, and Performance - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Michael - November 28 - 4:26 pm

  This is our second Mazda, having just traded a 2007 CX-9. Exterior styling is much more attractive than Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, and it is much sportier too. This car is a tremendous value. We paid $28,500 with $2000 in rebates.

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  Great car, with some minor gripes - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By jmsamler - November 27 - 1:27 pm

  We have officially owned our car for 1 year now, and it has been through all 4 seasons here in MI. Overall, it is a great car, but it is not perfect, but I guess no car is. Read on for more details. This car is very well made and rock solid, no creaks/squeaks and its beautiful inside and out. This car just exudes quality craftsmanship and feels modern and up to date. We have the GT, with no options. Gas mileage is good but have never seen anywhere near 38 mpg, getting about 33-34 on the highway and 27-28 in mixed driving, mostly around town.

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  Just took delivery - so far so good - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By mrod500 - November 27 - 12:07 pm

  I havent had the car a week yet but so far so good. I agree with the others that its arguable one of the best looking cars on the road today. I also like that Im not lumped into the "Camry and Accord" group. There simply arent that many Mazda 6s on the road so its nice to be a little different. I can see why they charge more for red or white. I went with white since so many of my friends have red cars. It looks great! I traded in a Corolla for this car so naturally it feels super loaded to me and it is. Its got literally everything. Ive had several BMW models in the past and I like to feel the road and thats what you get with the huge 19" wheels.

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  new mazda - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Anonymous - November 19 - 2:00 am

  Great car, huge interior, looks great, feels super smooth from the shifts to the ride.

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  Perfect, for its price - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Dick Tater - November 17 - 8:26 pm

  This car (4 cyl 5 speed sport value edition) is really hard to beat. Probably a more expensive car, like a BMW, Mercedes, or Cadillac CTS could beat it in many respects. But, for the money (around 20K), this car is unbeatable. Everything about it is well thought-out. I love the size-- not too big, not too small.

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  Great Car, Good Price - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By aajackson23 - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I recently bought my Mazda6i, and it has been a joy to drive. The gas mileage is as advertized, which is a good thing. The interior is wonderfuly appointed. I did the luxury package and love it. Bose system is amazing! Would recomend this car to anyone who wants luxury, sport, and fun on a budget.