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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  Owned almost 3 weeks - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mary Lou - October 17 - 9:40 am

  So far I like the car, very sporty. Rides and handles nice, good pick up for a 4 cylinder. Good visibility, no obstructions, can see very well even with spoiler.

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  Good but not great! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By txmazda - October 13 - 10:30 am

  We waited till we had some miles on our new car in order to give a more accurate review as almost every car seems great when brand new and no miles. After 11,500 miles we still enjoy the car but have had 3 issues with the A/C. Im a bit concerned because each time the dealer has stated the issue has been fixed but then it breaks again. The service at the dealer (Roger Beasley Mazda) has been exceptional and if not for the A/C issues, we would be ecstatic with the car. Im a Honda/Toyota guy historically (owned 6 hondas, 3 toyotas) but decided to venture out after reading all the quality issues with the new Hondas/Toyotas. The interior quality isnt as high as Hondas/Toyotas but is decent.

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  Pretty good car - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Guy with a Mazda - October 12 - 11:23 am

  I got my 6 in Dec of 07, and it has served me very well. All of my driving has been in town, so the mileage kind of stinks. It drives great, its pretty quiet, and it gets me from A to B with no problems.

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  mazda 6i - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By chefkrick - October 2 - 8:45 pm

  purchased mazda 6i with 85,000 KM Have it now 1 year. Looks and drives like new, no issues. Fun to drive and looks good. added a few mods, LED lighting and Hids. no issues at all for an older Mazda. When its time for a new car I will definatly purchase a new Mazda 6.

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  Decent car - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By M6 - September 17 - 1:50 am

  I bought this car used and when I took it for a check up there were no problems after two years of use. There was slight battery corrosion after a few months but it was easy to fix. The interior is awful, there are so many cup holders but cups wont fit in most. There are also a lot of compartments that even a CD holder wont fit in. This car is great on the highway but guzzles gas in the city.

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  Sadly Itching to Trade-In - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By hey! - September 6 - 10:23 pm

  CONS. - The bumpers and the body paint do not match (white). The cheap plastic front air vent/fog light covers. The paint got scratched the day I drove it off the lot. The red radio display reflects off the windshield (very distracting). The windshield wipers are not fast enough in heavy rain and they shake my car when Im stopped. The interior handles for my seat feel like they are going to snap off. The gauges and steering wheel are difficult to line up. Condensation inside headlight covers. Little headroom. Front int. lights too bright. The low beams draw a sharp line in my view. PROS - Good mpg. Roomy trunk. Big back seat. 5 star ratings. Side airbags. Reliable. Unique styling.

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  Best Value in a Sporty Sedan - 2012 Mazda Mazda6
  By madmaz - September 5 - 11:48 am

  We all know that Mazda got a deal on Black, Gray and Silver paint but thats OK. For the price of Mazda 3 where else can you find a car thats fun to drive, handles better than the competition, has great seats, is relatively quiet inside (windows up) and has a huge trunk. Very important (to me) ... this is not a "Skyactiv" engine but the 2.5 4-cyl averages 30 mpg in mixed driving; with a clutch, you can coast up to traffic lights. Alas, it is not a drag-racer but will keep up with normal traffic. Engine will come on strong over 3K RPM but fuel mileage will suffer. At 10K miles on the clock, no mechanical or electrical issues. A well-built machine. Highly recommended.

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  Mazda needs awd in auto transmission - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Ty - July 26 - 10:10 pm

  Ive owned my Mazda 6 for 10 months and Im very impressed with the performance, style and comfort. My only discomfort is that I didnt add the Navigation system, and the radio is built in (which prevents you from adding an aftermarket CD/Navigation system.

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  Zoom-zoom! It really comes down to value - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Zoomnbyu - July 23 - 8:56 am

  Ive had my 6s for almost five years and 67000 mostly trouble free miles. I wont lie and say that I never had the car to the dealer for repairs. My warranty file is pretty thick. However, most of any of my original concerns with this car that were repaired under warranty never recurred. Being that I bought a first year car, I chalk that up to working out the bugs. This car has always been extremely fun to drive. Thats why I bought it. It will always bring a smile to your face when the corners begin to fill your windshield! Build quality is average. Reliability has been good. I will be passing this car down in eighteen months to my son who will be heading to college.

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  Mixed Emotions - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By jimsrod - July 17 - 3:00 am

  Performance, comfort and functionality are balanced nicely with the 6s. The interior/exterior are the most sporty and the price is very competitive for its class. Mazda service has been okay in trying to resolve issues. The dashboard makes an annoying noise as well as the sunroof "ticks or pops". I still need to take it to the dealer for the dashboard so I cant give a negative there but they cant pinpoint the sunroof noise. Brakes could be better but thats not just a Mazda problem, all manufacturers have brake issues. Throttle response was annoying but Mazda fixed it. 1st year of a new model but I got 0% financing so it was worth it. All cars have issues so overall Im happy.