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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  One week with new car - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Walter - March 25 - 3:53 pm

  I have only had the Mazda6 for one week. t he exceleration is just about what I expect from the 4 cylinder engine. The engine is smooth in daily driving. you do notice the engine on exceleration, but it is not taxing our too intruding. I like the red colored gauges at night. I like the radio controls on the steering wheel. The 5 speed automatic transmission is smooth, but I particularly like being able to shift it manually if I wanted. the wear seats are roomy. I have good room in the drivers seat. The drivers seat is easy to adjust for comfort. The wear seats are roomy anough, although I will be driving up front. Highway driving is a breeze.

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  Consider the mileage - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By kenny g - March 22 - 9:10 am

  Bought a Mazda 6 wagon new in late 2004. Love the car except for 2 fatal flaws. It gets HORRIBLE gas mileage. At best 16 mpg in town and 21 on the road. Therefore I never drive it around town which is most of my driving. The mileage compares to a Hummer! The other fatal flaw is a super wide turning radius making city parking a real chore. Its very hard to get into tight urban parking spots. Ive had 2 re-calls already in under 2 years while other Hondas/Toyotas Ive owned never had any recalls. The car drives great, handles well and easily fits 4 adults and gear for a long road trip, but the awful mileage really bothers me!

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  Zoom-zoom refinement at a bargain price - 2011 Mazda Mazda6
  By lcmunson - March 9 - 2:42 am

  Picked up a 2011 black 6 six-speed during a year-end dealer blow-out. At a price less than a new 3, I am very happy with this vehicle vs the 08 3-touring that I traded. At 1200 miles, engine is starting to loosen up a bit and fuel economy ranges from 29-35 mpg; might still improve. The aerodynamics of this design are amazing .... on moderate downhill stretches it just rolls. As an old stick-shifter, this is an amazingly slick transmission! Get one before the bean counters decide there are not enough customers. In my opinion, nothing in this price range comes close to the value.

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  Despite the points I would not buy - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By A2BDriver - February 23 - 9:06 pm

  I know this car is supposed to be sporty. It drives and handles okay. I wanted a good daily driver for the snow belt. But in the first light snow all of a sudden the TCS kicked and IMMEDIATELY swings the rear of the car out. I lost power to straighten the car as it held back the front wheels, I barely recovered, entered a turn an again the TCS kicked in throwing the car sideways, again losing all power to the wheels. I pulled over and found the stupid button, turned the TCS and had an uneventful rest of ride. Tanks Mazda for almost killing me, I barely missed an oncoming pickup. I am going back to the dealer to permanently disable this dangerous "feature".

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  the plus-size Mazda 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By treeweezel - February 23 - 11:53 am

  I like how the wagon looks like a grown-up Mazda3 both in size and style. Classed-up, but still with some spunk. We have a BMW 530 wagon near identical in size, power and age, and there is absolutely no deprivation in taking the Mazda. More trunk and backseat, even. The 3.0 V6 brings the heat at high revs, but feels like much less engine at lower revs. Gutless under 2000 rpm and an absolute dog below 1500 rpm, youll need to shift often. First gear is tall and if you let the clutch in too fast itll really leave you out to dry. The engine also goes through oil and spark plugs kinda quickly, and the lack of replaceable fuel filter worries me.

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  Very good car - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By wendavid9 - February 4 - 9:26 pm

  I have had the car for just about a month. City and highway drive is about 50/50 and have average mileage above 26 mpg (based on my calculation on 3 tank refills). Trunk is the largest in its class but the opening could be bigger. I have two children sit in back seat and seems rear windows are bit high for them to see outside. Ride is quiet and comfortable. The boss sound does its job nicely. The 6 speed manual transmission is very smooth and fun to shift. Blue tooth system is easy to use and very helpful. Blind spot monitor is a good feature but only works when speed is above 20 mph. lots of air bags and traction control and stability control are standard. Just love it.

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  Warning on Driving in Water - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By HLopez - February 4 - 10:00 am

  Drove my new Mazda M6 with (2200 miles) in 3 to 4 inches of water after a storm at less than 15 mph, and got extensive damage, including cracked radiator, wet alternator and starter, and waiting to find out what else once they replace radiator and run engine diagnostic. Mazda warranty does not cover this, insurance will have to cover. Very disappointed with dealer attitutde, claiming its all my fault. My first Mazda is leaving a sour taste on my mouth, both for car and dealer.

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  Fun if your transmission works - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By mazda6sowner - February 2 - 10:00 am

  got my 03 with only 19k miles on it, put a couple more thousand on it and the transmission went out. I went to 4 shops trying to find out why it slams into gear and they all say its in perfect condition. the car has amazing looks and driving like a dream (when the transmission wants to work with you), but unless they fix the trannys i would not recommend. and my SUV gets better gas mileage in town

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  Not bad but still short of Camry quality - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rob - December 20 - 12:26 pm

  The all new 6 is a very attractive car and for the price its loaded with features compared to Accord and Camry. It sporty than even the Altima with a smoother nicer ride than that car but not as smooth as Camry. Two issues I had. One after test driving there was a strong burning plastic smell. Not the typical "break in" smell you have with new cars.

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  Great car so far - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By nmone84 - December 5 - 10:23 pm

  Acquired used 2 years ago with 28k miles & it has been very reliable thus far. Only issues Ive had are dead pixels on the LCD display (Mazda replaced unit free under warranty) & lately the throttle has been irregular on cold start which lasts until its warmed up. Performance slightly above average, as is gas mileage (in 90% city traffic). As for the iPod integration complaints, it IS possible (mine works great) - its just not easy. You need an adapter (which isnt cheap, about $200), & you need to solder a jumper on the L716 location of the HU because Mazda never made the CD changer port active in the stereo.