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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  Value for your money - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By JC - February 18 - 11:33 am

  If you are looking for an average car without spending a lot of money on a luxury model, then this car is for you. Its sporty looking but yet lacks some features.

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  Four door with flair - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Frank - February 13 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a passenger car that had style, power and handling the Mazda 6 fit the bill nicely.The power from the V6 engine is fantastic, roomy trunk and very good rear leg room. I got it fully loaded with the Technology and Navigation package. A Highlight is blind side monitoring which is very useful. You owe it to yourself to take this car for a test drive before settling on the other popular brands.

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  QUITE SATISFIED - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Barry Brooks - February 8 - 2:00 am

  Ordered a silver6 in Jan with the V6 5sp auto and sport pkg but it came with 5 sp manual so I took a gray one. There is nothing I dont like about this my first Japanese/American car. Its comfortable, smooth, quiet, very well built and I love the features such as sports pkg, headlights, chrome exhaust tips, red dash lighting, heated seats, rear seat latches, console. Great exterior and interior styling, materials and fit and finish. Hope this satisfaction lasts for the next 10 years. It draws a lot of looks in steel gray especially with the 2 narrow pinstripes I had installed down both sides and around the back.

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  Most reliable car I ever bought - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By idahogal - February 6 - 11:45 pm

  I bought my Mazda6 new in 2006 and have been really happy with it. I commute 60 miles a day round trip and have never had it in the shop for anything other than regular maintanence. The only minor thing that was ever wrong with it was a missalignment of the window washer fluid jets. It has never left me stranded, never has made any weird sounds and is really quite fun to drive. I just got it detailed, waxed and the headlights buffed and people at work think the car still looks brand new. The body style is still so current, I dont know if it will ever be outdated. I am so glad that I made the choice to buy Mazda.

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  My Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By TG #1 - February 2 - 2:00 am

  Its a really smooth ride, there really nice inside and outside. There not that expesive. And youll love driving it. Also they will look really phat with some rims.

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  LOVE MY NEW MAZDA - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By J R M - February 2 - 2:00 am

  I ACTUALLY WAS LOOKING FOR A NEW 2003 AS THE DEALERSHIP WAS HAVING A SALE ON ALL REMAINING 2004S. THERE WERE NO 2003S LEFT SO I DECIDED TO LEASE A 2004. I MIGHT HAVE GONE OVERBOARD ON THE OPTIONS, BUT I AM GLAD I DID. THEY HAD TO HAVE THE CAR BROUGHT OVER FROM SACRAMENTO BECAUSE THEY DIDNT HAVE THE COLOR I WANTED. WHEN I WENT TO PICK IT UP THE NEXT DAY, I COULDNT BELIEVE HOW BEAUTIFUL IT WAS (AND STILL IS). I GOT SPORT AND LUXURY PACKAGES. CAR IS SO SMOOTH, FAST AND COMFORTABLE (LEATHER SEATS TOO!!) FOR THE PRICE YOU CANNOT GET A COOLER CAR. I AM NOT SORRY I BOUGHT THIS CAR. EVERYBODY LOOKS AT IT. I RECOMMEND THIS CAR TO ANYONE PRICING SEDANS. JRM

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  From P5 to M6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By cplq258 - February 2 - 2:00 am

  My first mazda was the P5 which I Loved. It handeled great the P5 is a good car for a single man. As my Family Grew, I decided to by a sedan my first and only choice was the Mazda6. This car handles like no other in its price range. Respect thats what you get when your behind the wheel of the M6. The V6 24 vaulve engine is a one of a kind when it comes to performance.

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  rating on my 6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By OSCAR - February 2 - 2:00 am

  just bought it wish it had more HP

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  soo much car for your money! - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By jrabakker - January 30 - 12:08 pm

  I was going to buy a used car (Audi) at first as I wanted a nice upscale ride. As I was reviewing the gazillion options out there, I stumbled on the 2014 Mazda 6. Could not believe the looks of this car, especially for that price! Made it to the dealer the next day for more on-site research and a test drive. I originally planned to get the Touring, but after some review of the GT I really felt I would regret not taking the GT and all its extra features and luxury. I ended up indeed getting the GT, and added the adaptive cruise control package and the door window sills. If you go GT, get that MRCC package, as that cruise control is amazing!!!

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  I Love my Mazda 6 Wagon - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Joyce Hausler - January 30 - 6:53 am

  Performance in awesome. I rented one for a week prior to making the decision. All controls are within drivers reach. This has much more room that most SUVS I test drove. The sport wheels let you feel more bumps than Id like but that is the only negative I have.