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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  Love this car - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mistdreamr - July 24 - 1:06 am

  My first new car since 2001 and Im in love with it. I didnt intend to spend as much as I did, but once I sat in it and then drove it, I was hooked. So many things to love, the proximity keyless entry, the hands free Bluetooth, the great Bose sound system, the seats that cradle you,the sleek exterior lines that hint of speed, and of course, that "zoom zoom" driving feel. Never thought Id look forward to driving like this car makes me feel.

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  Great Car! - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tim C - July 22 - 12:26 pm

  This car is a great daily-driver. The ride is smooth and the car handles beautifully. The Bose system sounds great.

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  Really decent vehicle - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By realitycheck1 - July 19 - 7:41 pm

  Exterior design is very attractive. Excellent handling, good pickup from the 4cyl engine. Could be better on the fuel economy but not too bad. Ride is well controlled but it can be a bit busy. Decent room inside, good design to the dash board. Interior quality is a mixed bag. Some parts of the dash and doors are very high end but other parts are cheap feeling. Leather quality is decent, if a little stiff feeling, but it smells good though. Xenon lighting is excellent. I would suggest this car for those who like spirited driving, if you drive it softly it may leave you a bit cold.

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  Great Wagon!!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By gwagonman - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Bought a 6 wagon with 5M and havent regretted a thing. Bose system is awesome, handling sporty, enough room for the kids. Took the family on a trip to DC and had a great ride there and back. Hit some bad thunderstorms, but the Michelins held the road like we were on rails. This car really is a family vehicle that handles like a sports car, has the room of a small SUV and 25-27 mpg on the hwy. All I wanted and more!

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  Mazda 6i 5 Door - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By skizzy - July 17 - 10:00 am

  The car is a head-turner. Black with the optional clear taillights, brushed aluminum gas door and the 17 inch wheels really set the car off. The car has most options including the moon roof, Bose stereo (nice!), security system, ABS/Traction control etc.... I do have the automatic transmission which is a little sluggish, or non- existent, on the downshift from second to first when slowing down. This takes some getting used to especially if you need to accelerate if you were coasting at 8-10mph. Otherwise the car handles well, rides smoothly and is a blast to drive. The interior is wll laid out and the fit is very clean.

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  You will love this vehicle! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By twospedteacher - July 12 - 10:00 am

  After doing alot of research for the ideal wagon, I found the Mazda6 sport wagon to be the perfect vehicle for me and my 8 year old twins. This car rides like a Cadillac, handles beautifully, is very comfortable and roomy. The radio controls are an added convience feature that I love, not having to look at my dash to adjust the volume or stations. There is plenty of leg room in the passanger side and back seats. The illuminated dash is easy to see. I love the privacy cover in the hatch. There is plenty of storage room, and the cargo holders are great for organization. It rides quietly and handles solidly. I am nothing but pleased with this vehicle.

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  Excellent!! Top of the lot - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By reddy - July 10 - 10:16 am

  This car wins the competition amongst camry, accord, etc. The new 2009 mazda doesnt lose out on what youd expect from a traditional sedan (lots of space, loads of features...blows away the competition, fuel mileage, etc). Add to this the fun factor of driving this car, it blows all other cars in this segment out the water. Its the best buy for the money in this segment. Im really enjoying driving my car.

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  All around nice & sporty sedan - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Blackjack72 - July 9 - 7:20 am

  Ive had this car for almost six months and I love it. I like the design inside and out. The base model has plenty of standard features and a good size trunk. Ive wanted a Mazda 6 for a couple of years now and Im glad I got a good deal on the 2006 version.

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  Great Drivability but horrible interior finish - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By graym6 - July 6 - 1:32 pm

  Pros: I bought this car mainly because it has great exterior design and 6 automatic transmission. After I test drove Honda accord, I know I am not ready for CVT yet. I knew I made a right choice of buying Mazda 6. It drives amazingly well and has great handling. I give a special credit to front suspension which does the cornering without creating discomfort. Cons: Interior rattles a lot. This problem is already known for many Mazda 6 owners. If you just type the words "2014 Mazda 6 rattles" in google engine search, you will wonder if this is a new car. I just cant believe they dont catch all these rattling noises when they made prototypes. Granted, I bought Mazda not Toyota.

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  Nice, Fun to drive - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By NiceRide - July 4 - 10:46 am

  Have had the car since 11/09 and still get excited to hop in and go for a drive. There was one comment on road noise below, which it has some of but, much less than the new Accord we test drove. Getting about 23 MPG mixed. Great response when stepping on the gas and wanting to pass, dart, or just show off.