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 6 GT - It doesnt get better than this at $30k - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By hewhoiscalledj - June 15 - 9:29 pm

  Our trusty 2000 Subaru Legacy GT finally needed to be put down... It was a tragic day for us since we loved this car to death... literally. The good news is that we chose the new Mazda6 Grand Touring with the advanced cruise control and forward obstruction warning package. This badboy came loaded and dressed to the nines with its super slick (rotary inspired) 19" wheels. While it lacks the superior handling of symetrical all wheel drive and the low rev torque that our Legacy had, the Mazda6 handles the twisties and real life conditions with superb grace. Its a far smoother and refined machine compared to the Subaru. Everything about this car is just tight and mechanically perfect.

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  I love this car! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Christine Sullivan - June 10 - 6:10 am

  Ive had my Mazda6 for 3 years and, after all this time, I still feel like I GET to drive it! Its a blast to drive, is extremely stable in turns, has been completely reliable and its gorgeous! This car handles like a dream.

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  Built really well.... - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By realitycheck1 - June 2 - 12:12 am

  Interior quality of this car is a step above the competition. Smooth engine, decent acceleration and decent fuel economy. I average 28MPG between highway and city usage. Very reliable. Very roomy and above average handling. Very safe. I was broadsided in it and it held up very well. I find Mazdas in general are certainly a cut or two above its competition. The stock speakers were a little weak, and I find the stock Xenon headlamps are not as powerful as they should be and are very expensive to replace. But this is a very satisfying car.

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  Giving It A Whirl! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Well See... - May 31 - 5:53 pm

  I just bought my Mazda 6 this weekend. Ill give an update in a few months : ) So far, Im loving it!

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  Best wagon owned - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tyler Turley - May 29 - 7:40 am

  I have owned this fantastic car for just over a year now and just love it! I have a family of 4 and have taken several long vacations in this car and there was plenty of cargo room and comfortable seating for everyone. I have had no problems with this car at all. I was a little disappointed in the gas mileage, sticker said 28 mpg and Im getting about 22 or 23 mpg. Overall Im very impressed with this car.

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  Mazda makes great cars and the Mazda 6 is no exception - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By stevenrose - May 25 - 8:52 am

  The Mazda 6 is a great car. The exterior styling is very eye catching and the 19" wheels are beautiful. I purchased the Grand Touring because I wanted heated seats, however I had to get Nav, which I did not really need. The fit and finish is excellent and the handling is top-notch. Acceleration is decent and power is strong is you really hit the petal. The Engine is tuned for fuel economy so torque feels weaker at low speeds. Ride is firm, but I think it is actually comfortable. Agile and fun to drive are two words that describe the driving experience. The inside feels comfortable and upscale. I think this is a near perfect blend of economy and performance.

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  A gorgeous sedan - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By wilderness58 - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I wanted a V6 5-speed with no options and since there are no such cars on any dealers lot, I had to order. But the wait was worth it. My lapis blue Mazda 6 is beautiful, handles like its on rails, and is quite fast above 3,000 RPM. If youre into performance and looks, you wont find any better sedan at $19,200.

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  Mazda6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By IceRef27 - May 22 - 2:00 am

  After I wrecked my 02 Maxima, I wanted another sport sedan that wouldnt break the bank like the Nissan.....this Mazda 6 is a worthy replacement. While the V- 6 lacks a little power (compared to some other cars in its class), it handles much more like a sports car than the Nissan ever did. The "fun-to- drive" factor is definitely high with the Mazda 6.

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  Slip joint problem and pulsating brakes - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Ariel - May 21 - 6:13 pm

  Purchased car Dec. 08, Feb 09 -to dealer for knocking noise when turning, car inspected, nothing found. Noise continued, May 09 to dealer for knocking noise when turning and pulsating brakes. Valiant grease to steering column shaft. Breaks inspected, no issue. Noted some improvement with turning noise. Returned 6/3 for both issues continued. Replaced steering column, excessive movement in the slip joint used for steering wheel adjustment. Informed had same problem with older Mazda 6 and grease worked, but not 09. Replace the front rotors for customer satisfaction and at 14,950 machined back rotors. Not impressed with the continuing issues only 6 mo. car. If continues will pursue lemon law.

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  Mazda 6 i Sport Update--7 months later - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By evan21007 - May 17 - 7:24 am

  This is un updated review based on having this car now for 7 months and 3600 miles. The exterior styling is still an eye catcher and the seats are comfortable with the right amount of support. The engine has decent power but could be better from 0-20 mph w/o being somewhat aggressive with the gas pedal. The Yokohama tires have good grip combined with the 17" wheels. Steering and suspension are responsive to every input so you can have fun taking corners or enjoy a smooth ride in daily commuting. The interior is simply laid out with good ergonomics, high quality materials and switchgear throughout. Its not a flashy interior, which is a good thing. This is a drivers car!