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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  Great - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Stark - May 11 - 10:43 am

  I got my car in June and i love it. I would rather not have any other car. My experience with the Mazda6 has been incredible and I expect it to get even better. So if you want a magnificent ride then get a Mazda6.

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  A fun disappointment - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Andy - May 3 - 5:46 am

  There were several cars I was looking at when I bought my 6. The Lexis is 300, Acura tsx, Volvo s240, to name a few. I only stopped and looked at the 6 because my friend wanted to look at one. After I drove it I looked at Edmunds.com for reviews and really did not see anything to turn me away so I bought a fully loaded one. Its comfortable; It runs good, not to small/big. Its just right. However these people on here that rate the 6 a 10 when it comes to gas are nuts!! My Sticker said 22/29 MPG. Seeing how all I do is highway driving I figured 29 would be ok. Well, I check my mileage every time I fill up and the most I ever get it 22MPG. I have a 2001 Ford F150 crew cab 4x4 that gets 21MPGHW

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  Great looking car, lots of tech, good mileage too; but need more power. - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By inwester - April 2 - 5:35 pm

  I got the 2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring in red, black leather interior with contrast stitching, Tech package and with mats, bumper applique etc. MSRP was $33.4k, got it for $30.7k and leased it for $370/mo with no down for 3 yr/15k lease. Now to the actual review of the car. The car just looks gorgeous and I always wanted a red car. The engine is under-powered, but the i-eloop gives great gas mileage (40% hwy/60% city = 33 mpg). The ride is a little harsh, especially for people in the back, the 19" low profile tires are overkill in my opinion. Interior materials are top notch, seats comfortable and Bose sound system is good too. Steering is a little light for my liking but its smooth.

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  Good performer but has some terrible usability features - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By kmukhopa - March 16 - 1:40 am

  I have a 2009 Mazda 6 sport and have owned it since 2010. The car has good performance and is comfortable. Overall I have not had major quality issues, but I do have some complaints centering around customer usability ease. First of all, the Key FOB is terribly difficult to open when you need to replace the battery, both to open and to replace the battery are quite hard to do. I have had problems with it not working at all lately, even when I replace the battery, and I will have to take it in. Second, the headlamps are almost impossible to get to so you can replace the bulbs. You have to go underneath the wheels, take out grommets, etc. Mazda needs to work on that.

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  not the best car - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By blaze h - February 18 - 12:03 pm

  I bought my 6s as a repo from a bank. And ever since the brakes are shaky and theres a strange clicking sound coming from the motor that I have been told was a tension pulley and some grease will fix it. But it has 160k miles and its burning oil and I dont know why. Im thinking its the pcv valve but Im not sure. But Im constantly putting oil in it. Oh and my air intake tube is broken in half. And my mechanic duck taped it. So I need a new one soon.

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  Smooth and agile - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By koocct - February 17 - 1:23 am

  Purchased a 2003 Mazda6 s Sport with roughly 40k on the clock, onyx black. Exterior design still excites; truly a great-looking car. Interior design is good, but has a lot of cheap touches that scratch and wear out. 5-speed manual gearbox is a bit notchy and could have shorter throws, but a lot of fun overall. Suspension is nice and firm without being painful, but those looking for a Camry-like soft ride should look elsewhere. Steering is too light at low-speeds, but tightens up nicely as the car picks up speed. V6 lacks low-end power, but once the tach hits 5k the exhaust and the engine open up for some good force. Car understeers predictably; easy to control.

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  What a great car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By dave snell - February 17 - 12:56 am

  I have owned my new silver 6s with sports package and manual transmission for 2 months now and I am very happy. The only things I can fault it for is the turning radius and it can be difficult to launch in 1st gear because of the lack of torque. However once this car is off the line it is a hoot to drive. It handles superbly at speed and the engine comes alive at 3500 rmp. As a younger man I was a Datsun 510 lover, and this car takes me back to the fun days of rowing gears and tossing the car around turns. It is also the best looking car in its class (imo). Compared to the Accord, Camry or Altima this car has so much more personality and fun to drive factor. Why drive something boring?

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  7000 miles and four times back to the dealership - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By greekguy9999 - February 9 - 12:56 am

  First, 1500 miles, check engine light went on. It needed a software upgrade. Second, 3000 miles, GPS was frozen. needed a battery change. Third, 7000 miles, blind spot monitoring will not turn on. Dealership has no idea why and I need to come back when the Japanese builders are awake wherever they live so they can figure it out. So next time will be the fourth time. For a car that costs 30k, and is the top of their line, you would think I wouldnt need to come back four times within 8000 miles.

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  04 Mazda 6i auto - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By rblessed - January 18 - 2:00 am

  This car is a great everyday driver for work. If you can opt of the V6 it is worth it. However, I do a lot of driving in Home Health and miles per gallon is important to me so the 4 cyl benefited me. I like to do my own shifting, but in todays traffic pay the extra for an automatic. I looked into everything in this price range 22K and the Mazda offered more spunk than other manufacturers. If you reside in San Antonio, Texas go to the IPAC dealership and speak with John B. (Manager), Reggie A, or Eddie G. They were AWESOME!! I have only had the car a day so I cannot comment on reliability at this time. The car is great.. it sells itself.

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  Mddy0 Mazda6 S 2003 - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By mddy0 - January 4 - 9:03 am

  The 2003 Mazda6 S is a fun to drive stylish vehicle. It has plenty of power and is very fun to drive. I bought the S trim with the v6 engine and The interior is practical and well designed. It does have some reliability issues, but most owners should not have problems with it. It delivers a smooth ride. The factory sound system is lacking unless you upgrade to the bose package. I would recommend this car for those who want a sporty looking car that is roomy and comfortable. Mddy0 Mazda6