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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  Fun, but no 30 mpg! - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By jaegee - May 18 - 6:27 am

  I traded my Altima 3.5L for this car, hoping to get better gas mileage. I havent done better than 25.4 mpg yet, 2.5 years later. And, it does not have the zoom of a 6 cylinder (obviously). That being said, it is fun to drive, roomy, and a good-looking car. I did have to have new brakes & rotors at 30K- seemed a little soon for that! 10,000 miles later, brakes were sticking so that the rear wheel would overheat. Other minor issues- A/C is weak and stock stereo sucks. But for the most part, a good value for the price.

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  I love my Mazda6! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By lovemycar - May 14 - 6:36 pm

  I have had my mazda for 3 years, and have done lots of driving on long trips and within the city. The current mileage is 60k. I have never had a single problem with my Mazda thus far. It handles excellently, and I consistently get compliments on the sexy look of the car. As a student, its the nicest car around. The interior is comfortable, which is especially great for those long road trips. I highly recommend the Mazda6!

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  Copper Blazed Fun - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Matt - May 12 - 10:36 am

  I own a Copper Blaze Metallic hatchback with the 6 cylinder and the 6 speed auto. Great car that is plenty fast and looks great. A very visible car that hauls mulch, bicycles, or my wife and I to a fancy dinner. This car does it all. City mileage is a little disappointing (22-23mpg), but highway mileage is pretty good (28-30). With a decent size gas tank, 450 miles between fill-ups is easy. The manumatic is useless as in all cars but the 6 speed auto shifts nicely. Having to take the car in for an oil change is a bummer and Mazda will not sell the needed oil filter wrench through a dealer. Overall, a great value and a lot of fun.

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  A lot of car for the money - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By MazdaNewbie - May 10 - 9:23 pm

  After buying Honda/Acura all my life, I couldnt resist the deal I got on my 6s 5-door with 6-speed automatic, leather, Bose, the works. I was close to buying an Acura TSX, but of course Acura wouldnt budge on price; I got the Mazda for $5K below invoice (including the rebate). The driving dynamics are fantastic. The car feels very solid, and the steering feel is like no other car in this price range. The ride is just right for me, firm without being too stiff. Sure Id like more torque, but I find the six-speed tranny in manual mode lets me keep the revs up when I need them, and easily gets me up to speed. I find myself driving the car just for the fun of it.

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  2004 Sport Wagon - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By cbohrer - May 10 - 3:03 am

  Purchased used with 56K on it. Love the handling and the styling. Different than the typical midsize car. I get a lot of double takes when driving it. Handles as well as my BMW 528it. Good size vehicle. Comfortable ride and good visibility. Only have had the oil changed, no problems yet. Plenty of get up and go, but the mileage could be better. I drive mostly interstate and have been averaging 26-27 MPG. I used to get nearly 30 MPG on the Bimmer, and it was bigger and heavier. It is noisier on the road, but this could be the tires on it. Two are OEM and two are different brand. I like the dash lighting.

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  Very Nice for the Price - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Dub75 - May 9 - 12:23 pm

  I purchased my 2009 Mazda6 in November of 08. I traded an 06 Mazda 6 V6. I never thought I would own a Mazda but after having owned two I am a loyal customer. The only problems thus far with the car is the stripping around my windshield just above the dash has melted from the Texas heat. I took the car into the dealership and the service manager informed me they would have to take my dash out to replace the stripping. He advised not to do this because it may have rattles in the dash after re-installing. I am questioning the A/C. It sometimes doesnt seem to cool properly. My previous 6 had A/C issues. Hope this one is not the same. All in all it is a very nice car for the price.

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  Happy Mazda Owner - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By DanM - May 8 - 10:30 am

  I like to drive the car, it handles great on Vermont mountain roads, is great on longer runs on the Interstate and has given me no trouble. Performance is good, plenty of power. Highly recommend one. I just wish they would offer an all wheel drive model.

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  most stylish sedan around - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By mtaylor - May 8 - 2:00 am

  Moved up from a Mazda3, and am very impressed with how smooth and quiet the car is. Exterior styling is edgy without being too trendy and should hold up well over the years. Interior styling is simple and elegant, and mostly very high quality (but whats up with the thin vinyl on the armrest and the Buick velour on the door panels??). On a 500 mile trip I averaged 34mpg in mostly rural driving at 60-65mph with a good bit of stop- and-go intown driving, and have been averaging about 27mpg around town. Pretty awesome for such a big car. I love that the car looks big, but drives like a much smaller car. The ride is firm, but very compliant, a near perfect balance of handling and ride comfort.

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  Mazda 6 - Best bang for the buck - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By SAVVY Mark - May 4 - 2:00 am

  After spending hours on the internet, reading my favorite automotive magazines, and a couple of test drives, It was clear that the Mazda 6 (fully loaded) fit most of my requirements. Those being: performance over 200hp, good handling, stylish looks (external & internal), comfortable interior (leather), quality sound system (Bose), smooth transmission (automatic), and price. Now if price was not a factor I would have chosen the 2003 Infinity G35 coupe. A much more refined and sporty car, but for $15-$20K more and about 40- 60hp more it just wasnt worth paying the difference.

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  Should have thought twice - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By NastiVehicle - May 4 - 2:00 am

  The 6s is a blast to drive, but the quality isnt very good. I have under 6000 miles on the car and have had to have the dash board, the steering column, the center console, the radio, and the defroster replaced. The problem has come back among other terrible rattles in the back of the car along with problems the technicians caused. Other than the poor quality the car drives great, just crank up the tunes and try to zone out all the rattles. The body of the 6 is awesome with the sports grille and body kits you can get. If I had to do it again I would have gone with the accord or tsx.