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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  Steering and air conditioning vent problem - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By zoomzoomtx - June 22 - 12:37 pm

  I have 1500 miles so far, having some issue with the steering wheel column making vibrating noises whenever the cars driving on bumpy roads, sounded like somethings loosen. I went back to the dealer to report the problem and they said it is a common problem that theyve seen before and Mazda have a solution for it. That was three weeks ago, and now this vibrating noise is back again. Also, one of the air conditioning vent makes a noticeable whistle sound if air speed is over 50%. Any of you had similar problems?

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  Not as Good as an Accord - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By cmara1 - June 7 - 3:12 am

  After purchasing a 6 with around 30,000 miles on it, I am a bit disappointed. My main gripe is with engine. Its noticeably slower than my 4-Cylinder Accord (which isnt a rocket-ship to begin with). The lack power is to a point where I wont pass someone because I am afraid I wont have enough room. The transmission is clunky and doesnt shift when you want it to. Unlike an Accord, the engine sounds like a coffee grinder -- rough and unrefined. When accelerating the engine seems very taxed. However, the handling is very good and the 6 can be thrown around with hardly any body roll. The stereo is one of the worst I have heard in a modern car.

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  Nice Car! - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By sagitaur - June 1 - 7:10 pm

  Bought this car used with 3800 miles on it, so it was pretty much like new. Had never really looked at them, but got a great deal on an 05 Sport Hatch. The car handles great and is pretty comfortable for my daily commute. The looks are unbeatable in this segment, having a much more sporty demeanor than the Camcords. The interior is nicely done as well, with all major conveniences and safety gear. Although a little reluctant at first, the versatility of the hatch cant be beat and its difficult to differentiate between the hatch and the sedan versions. This car would be a great choice for those looking for a sporty car with a little room and versatility.

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  NICE car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Daywatts - June 1 - 10:00 am

  I love my car. It hugs the road, manuvers well and brakes are excellent. I narrowly missed someone who pulled out in front of me. The brakes did their job without any extra handling necessary. It has a large turning radius but I wonder if it is built this way to have better overall manuverability. I dont like the gas mileage. The manufactor claims the car gets 26-32 mpg yet I can only squeeze out 25 mpg when driving conservately. I usually get the top rated gas mileage for each car Ive driven. Mazda is directly to blame for this yet the government has freed companies up to lower gas mileage and the companies are now able to fudge its numbers.

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  Bang For Your Buck - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jeff&Melissa - May 31 - 11:30 pm

  If youre like me and want to have some fun while driving but dont want to pay top dollar to get it, than the Mazda 6 Sport V6 is for you. I test drove every car in its class and some cars above it (much more expensive) and the Mazda outperformed dollar for dollar every time. Ive had mine for a month now and I still have to take a look at it each time I get in or out and think to myself "what a beautiful car"

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  First Mazda - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By samdd - May 29 - 10:36 am

  I owned the 2014 Mazda 6 Touring for about 1 month. Love the exterior styling (grey) with the bright Sand interior. Smooth shifting automatic even if the car is too eager to up shift. Wish there was a sport mode to keep rev higher but you can switch to manual mode. The seat is a bit on the firm side. There is a little more noise than your typical Honda or Toyota. The 19" standard wheel looks great and help with the handling. I owned a V6 Maxima before so I do missed the extra horse powers. Love the MPG, getting around 30-31 mpg on heavy foot.

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  No Valet Protection! Beware of the Small Things - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By condor2fly - May 18 - 10:04 am

  I have deep buyers remorse. I agree with most of fawning reviews concerning the cars style and how it drives. But oh how I wished Id examined it more carefully for practical lifestyle needs, when I went for that test drive. Subsequently, I was bummed to discover the only way to open and then lock the doors and trunk is to dig my key set with the key fob out of my pocket, rather than pushing a little button. A couple days later I was shocked and mortified to discover that I cannot secure my identity papers or anything in the glove box or the trunk, because theres no valet system whatever--not even a key. I live in Los Angeles, and now I cannot valet, without removing a bunch of things?

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  Good Car Overall - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By BayAreaMZ6 - April 24 - 2:00 am

  Instead of doing what most people do and purchase and Accord or Camry, I decided to be a little different. The Mazda6 I purchased came fully loaded. I must admit, after 2000 miles, I am pretty satisfied with the car.

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  Zoom Zoom = Fun Fun - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By qlas - April 22 - 5:10 am

  Ive only had this car about 1 month. Actually my wife has had it so long. She picked it out because this car has so many sensible features inside a sporty exterior. Its fun to drive. It has the capacity of our Forester, but it looks good. The stereo and sun roof are sweet too.

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  Probably Not Again - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Therapist - April 6 - 4:50 am

  Bought it in San Diego and I was all excited about its feel and six speed transmission along with the looks. It was a looker and felt nice and sporty. But I was quickly disappointed, and I am much happier with a Volvo 960 now.