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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  Mini SUV ?? - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Fastback - September 11 - 10:00 am

  Best new car yet (my 5th). Initial quality excellent, and absolutely no problems to date. Drives like on rails, stops on a dime, and just feels great at all times.

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  Wonderful Car... - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mazda Buyer - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Mazda now for a year and willing to recommend it to anyone looking for a great car. It is very fun to drive and I love the design. I did plenty of research and its all true. I have suggested it to several friends and two of them have already purchased theirs and they are too loving them.

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  Melting Tail Lights - If youre out of warranty - Youre Out of Luck - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By gregsmazda6 - September 9 - 1:56 am

  I bought a used 2010 Mazda 6 with about 44,000 miles on it. By about 48,000 miles, I noticed the tail light lenses were melting. It has stock bulbs. Dealership never saw this before (of course) but was willing to charge $350 for new tail lights. I tried going the route of "Tail Lights shouldnt melt in a year". I say they happen only after 3/36,000 warranties. Several iterations up the Mazda Corporate ladder - proved fruitless. Out-of-Warranty, Out-of-Luck. Only when I went to the NHTSA, I found (service bulletin) SB-10033969-2790), 2009/10 "Mazda 6 might experience heat deformation of the lens in warm climates" - Why isnt Mazda Selling - ARE MELTING TAIL LIGHTS ACCEPTABLE to CUSTOMERS???

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  Good Car !!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By edblackmon - September 2 - 7:33 am

  The car has been real good to drive. It has a youthful look. Just enough room for small family. Gas is good with A/C. No problems with vehicle.

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  True Zoom - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By sydtron - August 29 - 8:16 am

  Going into my fifth year (at 92000 miles) with my 2005 Mazda6S GT, Im still enjoying the driver oriented experience baked into this car from day one. Only reliability issues Ive encountered are the headlights burning out and a strut bearing causing noise. Otherwise, taking good care to replace general maintenance items has kept the car in good working condition, and I dont baby the car. The relationship between driver and car, in regards to seating position, steering, throttle, and general feel is fantastic. Refinement could be better (2006+ models are noticeably more refined), but I enjoy this car every time I drive it. New sport shocks, springs, and larger rear sway added.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Paul - August 28 - 12:13 pm

  You simply cannot go wrong with the Mazda 6i. Its hands down the best car Ive ever owned. I get over 30 mpg combined and the 4 cyl 160 hp engine has plenty of pep. I purchased the car off lease with 33K miles and now am close to 100K and have had only minor mechanical issue. The drive belt tensioner has gone bad twice (makes a rattle at low idle, common problem), it cost me $60 and 30 minutes of my time to replace both times. The O2 sensor went bad and it cost me $80 and 30 minutes of my time to replace. Oil changes are a snap and if you put Yokohama tires on this car it rides like a dream. My only complaint is the turning radius, its horrible. I can live with that minor annoyance

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  Fun Car to Drive - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Indyowner - August 28 - 10:06 am

  This is a fun car to drive, and it is reliable too! This car is especially fun on the highway. Just take it on an on ramp and you will know what I mean. The turning radius stinks because of wheel base, but that makes it handle better on long turns. I have the 5 speed automatic. They sell these for less than the Accords. Everyone told me to buy a Honda for the reliability, but I already know from experience that Hondas break down too (I own an older Accord). My advice, test drive it and see if you can get past the short turning radius. If you can, you will love to drive this car as it is a solid performer.

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  The affordable practical sports car - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By DavidS - August 25 - 11:43 pm

  Handling compares favorably with the RX-7 I used to have. Heater is incredibly fast. Get leather with heated seats and you will never touch cloth again. Makes my 80 mile daily commute very pleasant. Some say its small, but I prefer a tighter, sportscar-like cabin. Most Americans like to sit in a cave when they drive, I guess.

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  Very happy. Exceeding MPG estimates. - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rick in NC - August 22 - 10:50 pm

  So glad after 5 months I chose this car. I got the i touring 2.5L auto, with the convenience package. The only thing that made me hesitant was the gas mileage. I am consistently averaging 28 mpg per tank. I dont do any stop and go driving, but not much highway either. I got over 32 mpg on one long trip. Mileage suffers about 10- 15% if you go over 70 mpg. All the other positives the editors discuss hold true. Roomy, comfortable, GREAT handling. Blindspot monitoring option is very helpful. No regrets what so ever. I was looking at the Altima, Altima Hybrid, Camry and Accord and am glad I chose the Mazda6!

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  Happy Driver - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By D Trumps - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I originally bought this car for my wife but due to my long commute, i started driving it a year ago. I look forward to my drive. The car is comfortable and handles well. I have gotten as much as 33 mpg and find this incredible for a midsized which is as good as a compact but with more room and style. 67,000 miles on the car and only a few minor complaints. I replaced the Michelins with 45,000 miles on it and have yet to replace the battery. My first and last 12 miles each day are down and up a mountain pass and really show off this sedans strong suit. Keep it in the sweet spot and smile. I am disappointed that the current 6 is not sport oriented.