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 - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By wisconsinzoomzoom - May 2 - 6:30 am

  I love this car! I am in my car at least 10 hours a week and I often have a car full of people. Its fun, and safe, to drive. Backseat riders have tons of space. We bought this car new almost two years ago and still love it. The sound system is great (we have the Bose system) and we love the over look of the car. And it handles great in snowy, crummy weather.

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  Puzzled - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By buddyboy59 - April 29 - 2:49 pm

  I am puzzled by the reviewers who say the 4Cyl is underpowered,and or they cant get comfortable in the car,My question is,Didnt they drive the car before their purchase?I certainly did,and although the 4Cyl is no rocketship,i find it to be perfectly suited to my needs,Comfort wise its no Lincoln or cadillac,but again it is as comfortable for my Stature as any other car in its class.Excellent value for the $$$,Drive it live with it for a hour or two,if its not for u dont buy it,if its Power u want go 6 Cyl,In closing dont Buy hamburger and then complain it doesnt taste like steak!,

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  Even better than I expected - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Miranda - April 29 - 2:13 pm

  This car looks great but handles even better. This car is very capable of making tight, fast turns and I never feel "out of control". The cloth seats are well constructed and comfortable with good support. The interior can easily accommodate 4 adults with a decent amount of leg room and the trunk space is huge. Road noise is minimal. I couldnt be happier with the purchase.

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  Nice Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Greg - April 28 - 7:40 pm

  This car is a lot of fun to drive - the Tiptronic transmission is great in the mountains and really helps the acceleration. It handles very nicely and cruises very smoothly at 80mph. Interior design is beautiful. Two complaints: fuel economy - I do mostly freeway driving and am only averaging about 20mpg. 2nd complaint - 800 miles on the car and the check engine light came on. Havent brought it in yet; but am sure its nothing - car is running fine.

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  1 Awesome Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By 1HotMama - April 28 - 2:00 am

  I purchased the Mazda 6s because I am a new Mom and still wanted a sporty looking car im only 23 so i didnt want a car that would make me feel old being a Mom and all and ever since i have had my car I want to drive everywhere I go. I have even recommended purchasing my car to a few friends who are looking to purchase new cars. In fact, my older sister just purchased the exact same car and she loves it because you feel so young and alive when you drive it. I woul;d trade my car for the world.

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  Reliable and Worth the Cost - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By John K - April 27 - 9:36 pm

  This has been an excellent and fun car to own.

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  Gas Guzzler - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mazdanomore - April 26 - 3:50 pm

  Did Mazda six stand for 6 miles to a gallon less than advertised? Used to own Plymouth Breeze that got on average 5 miles to gallon better. Ive had it in the shop 3 times now for a rattle coming out of the dash when AC/defrost is on. Dealership still doesnt know what it is, and even tried to bill me for a $130 on the first look because they said it was leaves jammed up in the cabin air filter. Probably will look at a different make and will sell this off before I pay out my lease. Other than looking good, car seems a little less than average. For 10,000 miles, I wouldnt have expected to be in the shop 4 times to fix things.

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  Fun Fun with the Zoom Zoom - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rob C - April 25 - 11:36 pm

  Me and the wife have an older 6 (2003 6i Sport) that is getting a little long in the tooth. She was looking at a Lexus IS but I persuaded her to look at this new 6. We do not regret this purchase! It is powerful, comfortable, roomy, and is a looker inside and out. We bought a fully loaded performance white 6s with moonroof, Bose, satellite radio and navi, and is worth every penny. It is a blast to drive, smooth and effortless power delivery out of the 6 cyl and 6 speed auto. The seats are firm but comfortable, the sound system can rattle the doors off if you like, and the trunk is huge. This is supposed to be my wifes car, but I find myself hogging the drivers seat, ha!

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  Nice Care Overall - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By John - April 25 - 10:16 pm

  Had this car 2 weeks. 4 cyl is adequate at 170 hp but no thrill ride. I do mostly hwy driving. So far mpg is 27. Solid feeling car. I bought this over other sedans because of the exterior styling. Seems to stand out in a crowd. As mentioned in another review you can hear the gas in the tank. Overall Im very pleased. One note- Im 61" and the steering wheel height cuts off the top of the gauges unless you have the seat on the ground. This is annoying.

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  SILVER BULLETT - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By ZOOM ZOOM - April 25 - 7:53 pm

  Wonderful family sports sedan ! Regularly have positive comments & inquiries made at the gas pump, etc. by interested strangers...Once underway, the 4-cylinder gets up and goes at speeds above 50 mph ++. Nothing like it ! The automatic/manual shift transmission is a great idea for an all around exciting driving experience in all manner of traffic and driving conditions I feel.