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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  it doesnt get any better in a 20K sedan - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By rightdm00 - August 21 - 7:10 am

  This car is has by far exceeded all my expectations. When you have to choose a family mover and performance is one of your primary needs this is the best car by far. The Camrys are no doubt built better, gets better gas mileage and on and on but none of them make you wanna get in and drive every day. With the 5 speed manual and the V6 the fun to drive factor far exceeds its competitors in the fun to drive factor.

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  Zoe - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Norm - August 19 - 2:03 am

  I really enjoy this car. I have only one complaint and that is regarding the car stereo. Mazda made it nearly impossible to replace the radio with an aftermarket model. Or at least have the option to install an Aux input module for my MP3 player. Otherwise I love this car.

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  Great Value! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mojay - August 18 - 11:50 pm

  We have had our 6s for 6 months without any problems. We had a VW Passat prior to the 6 and had countless problems with it. We love the sportiness of the drive and the high feature content in the interior. It was a great value compared with other vehicles with the same option list.

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  SPORT Wagon is Correct Name - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By PM013 - August 15 - 2:00 pm

  I have a 2005 fully loaded Sport Wagon (May 2005) and I have 10,000KM (6,000 Miles). This is one fun car to drive! My wife always fights me for the keys, Took it on our first real highway trip this summer and got 29MPG at 75MPH. Great SPORT wagon. No regrets at all.

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  Great choice - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rich - August 11 - 9:23 pm

  Feeling the gas price crunch, I had to look at getting rid of my FX35 and get something with mileage. Looked at Accord, Camry, Altima, Fusion, Malibu, and finally came across Mazda. This is a fun car to drive, the steering is a little overboosted, but great mileage (avg 24mpg mixed), good brakes, comfortable, but a little sluggish. Feels lighter and smaller than it is. Glad I bought it, and saving lots of money each month!

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  2005 6Wagon - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Gary - August 6 - 6:36 am

  So far my Mazda6 Wagon has been a blast to drive. The sportshift auto keeps it interesting. Its been on three long trips (3 dogs-in back, bikes on roof, luggage on rear seats). Despite the seeming clutter of all that, it was surprisingly comfortable. Plenty of leg and headroom. On another trip, I had four bikes on the roof, all the gear in the back and 3 passengers beside myself. There was still plenty of room. The car is built solid...no rattles. The engine has plenty of power and is smooth (with the traction control turned off). The only problem, and its small, is the ticking noise (not the cams) just behind the passenger-side firewall. Its a solenoid that Mazda wont repair.

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  Best Car Ive Owned - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jeremy - August 2 - 1:06 pm

  I purchased the car in Mar. 09 with 30K on it, and wow, it drives like the day I bought it. Im getting around 29- 32 with about 80% city driving. I have not had ONE problem with this vehicle. It is a bit sluggish off the start but once you are in second gear its got a good pep. Im 511 and I am totally comfortable in the seats. If you are thinking of buying this car dont hesitate to do so. Its rock solid. Mazda has just gotten a customer for life!

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  Want great handling, this is the car... - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By TeeCee - July 28 - 2:00 am

  Seats are very comfortable. Many different driving positions with tilt/telescoping steering column. Handling and braking are superb yet 17" rims compromise smooth city rides. Automatic tranee shifts flawlessly except at times of extremely rough accleration and braking. Braking in ALL weather conditions is extremely comforting with the ABS brakes. Radio and climate controls take ALOT of getting used to and have yet to become second nature even after two months. Storage is plentiful for maps, bottled water and coffee. Sharp car but needs tweeking here and there; MANY options that are only seen on more high end, costlier cars.....

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  Awesome Car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jeff - July 28 - 12:46 am

  I purchased my Mazda6i brand new with 55 miles on it. It currently has 97,000 miles on it. I chose the 2.3L 4cyl and I have had zero trouble with it. It handles like a dream and its a lot of fun!! I bought the sport package with moonroof/bose/17" wheels etc. Its been a great car and its paid for!! I will never get rid of this car and its absolutely wonderful to drive. I feel the same way I did when I bought it brand new. Confident and classy.

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  Our second Mazda6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Otis - July 25 - 12:03 pm

  Previously owned an 03 V6 sedan. Traded for a convertible but she missed the zoom zoom of her 6 so much that we came back and got a loaded up 05 V6 5 speed sport hatchback (actually all hatchbacks have the sport package unlike my earlier sedan). This car is great. A ton of fun for the money and has many features found in more expensive cars. V6/manual transmission combo is hard to find elsewhere. 220hp was a lot a few years ago but others have caught up or do better now. Suspension dynamics are fantastic, this car wants to bolt around town at 60+ mph! Styling is fresh and unique. Highly recommended. Some 2005s are still around (as of early 2006) and could be a steal. MSRP of $27,700 cost me $21,300!