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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  Mazda got it right - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mikhail G - March 6 - 2:40 am

  I am a previous lease owner of the Mazda 6 2005 for 42 month. Enjoyed that car except 4 cyl was not enough for summer driving because of AC system takes power from engine. Mazda got it right this time. Driving new 09 model for a week now, already see a lot of improvements. Torque is much better even with AC on. Transmission is much smoother when shifting. Interior design improved dramatically. More roomy. Dash board has few new fitures but again I have basic package cant help you there. I do have auxiliary input that allows me to connect my iPod, very cool. Sound system is awesome, 8 speakers and subwoofer standard. Trunk is very big, could fit my golf bag in the old model, this one is fine.

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  Facing Same Problems As Many Others. - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Faultless - February 15 - 4:13 am

  I bought my Mazda6s Grand touring in Dec. of 07 used but still under factory 36k bumper to bumper with 33k miles on it. Ive now had the car for 5 weeks and its already back at the dealer with a blown engine. "Low oil conditions." Check your oil check it often these cars use it burn it I dont know they make oil disappear. The dealer tried to tell me the last person to do my oil change was to blame and I quickly responded with "well that would be you."

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  Outstanding "Sport" Sedan, Practical! - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Adam - February 9 - 3:06 am

  I bought this car with 2 years left to go in the Army, and I was driving a LOT on weekends (highway) and abusing it during the week, hauling squad members around post. I have a little over 70,000 miles on it, and have just changed the original tires at 65k miles. Everything else is original (including brakes, which look to have about 10,000 miles left on them). The first two years was a lot of highway driving, the last year and a half was normal mixed driving. Its held up extremely well to a hard life of icy winters and scorching summers (Missouri, Florida, and Louisiana). This has been the perfect balance of a "fun to drive" vehicle with a "practical" vehicle.

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  Bang for the Buck - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jim D - January 29 - 4:23 pm

  Bought this car used with 20k miles on it, got a screaming deal - the market seems to be flooded with them right now. There are a few peeves with the car in terms of build quality compared with my older, Japan-built Mazda, but hey, if you need a station wagon and are on a limited budget this car is a heck of a choice and a lot of fun to drive. Handles like its on rails, gets up and goes and turns heads. Before you settle for a Passat or waste your money on an Audi or Beemer, take the time to drive one. Zoom-zoom!

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  A worthy contender from Mazda - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By rickallen - January 10 - 8:35 am

  The new 6 is a strong step forward for Mazda. The design is ambitious, the build technology is advanced, and the features are highly competitive. Even the sport is well-equipped and sturdily built. The doors feel solid and the trim and dash are constructed of high-quality, low-gloss materials. My immediate gripes are not having a good place to rest my left elbow (Im 64" so the seat is far back) a gearbox that up shifts too early, and an elevated level of cabin noise on the highway. I also am skeptical of the mpg claims since my driving so far has produced a 27 mpg average and Ive been trying to maximize. The Diesel engine ought to achieve good numbers, though.

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  Worst-Car Ever Purchased - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By jofried - January 8 - 6:00 am

  Purchased this Mazda brand new. In 4 years, Ive had the radiator replaced, hoses replaced twice, A/C replaced, two recalls,TCM (transmission control module) replaced, spark plug wires replaced, brakes still squeal after replacements, and worst of all was when my throttle body blew at 60mph and shutdown my electrical system as well leaving me to coast with no power. Ive complained to Mazda USA HQ and they did nothing when I requested a free extended warranty. I am now in the market for a new car and will never purchase a Mazda in my entire lifetime.

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  Brand New - Still Reviewing... - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By jumpforjan - December 31 - 4:55 pm

  Just bought this car last night. Ive always loved Mazdas (I had an 89 MX-6, which my mother still drives!). Traded in my Maxima for this slightly-less fancy car, but so far Im pretty pleased. Zippy, corners well, good pick up on the freeway, good sound system (although I do miss my Bose with Sirius XM). Dealership was awesome. Hopefully gas mileage will be better than my Maxima, and that I have it a long time.

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  My Wifes New Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By hisdad - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Scenario: Our 14 year old son had outgrown the backseat of our 1997 Acura Integra GSR. We needed a mid- sized sedan. My wife prefers to drive a manual transmission and wanted a little zip. Possible Choices:Altima, Passat, 6s. (Accord and Camry did not offer a manual transmission w/V6) Outcome: Although, the 6 does not perform like the Acura, by any means, it suited our needs. Adequate acceleration, excellent handling and braking for a car in this size and price range, sporty appearance, and price (MSRP was $5000 less than comparably equipped Altima or Passat) were the factors in making our final decision. Epilogue: My wife chose to keep her 6s when I

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  Love my 6 more every day - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By abresci - December 25 - 10:00 am

  This car is great fun to drive, and it is a head-turner. Most people are stunned that I only paid $21,500 for such a nice-looking car. The sport package is definitely a recommended option (sport bumpers, skirts, suspension, and wheels), as is the luxury package (leather, power drivers seat, seat warmers)

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  Fun to Drive (true zoom-zoom) - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By jjdawson - December 25 - 10:00 am

  [I hate driving in the crazy, stop and go, permanent-construction Denver metro traffic.] So, I opted for the automatic with sequential shift. Although I gave up quite a bit of manual-shift punch (I drove that one, too), the car is really fun to drive. I push this thing to its tire-screeching limits (no joke), but the car just begs for more. If it lasts five years the way I drive, Ill be seriously impressed with Mazda.