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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  Single foot seeks pedal to mash... - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Twitch - April 28 - 9:30 pm

  Mistakenly bought this car for my wife, and wished Id given her my car and kept this one for myself instead! This is truly a drivers car. Bose system makes your ears dance. I found myself out in the garage more than once just listening to a new cd. Honest. And once you back it out of the garage, let the fun begin! Ford Duratec V6 has a nice exhaust note when pushed. The platform/suspension sometimes feels like it was designed for the lighter 4-cyl, but the V6 will pin your ears back if you hit your corners at mid-range rpm! 6-speed transmission geared a bit odd between 1st and 2nd, but sweet between 5th and 6th on road trips. And 3rd/4th gears make you over-eager to pass anyone.

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  Great Bang for the Buck! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By VengefulTick - April 28 - 4:46 pm

  Bought this car new for my wife in early 2004. We broke it in by driving it from Colorado Springs, CO to Anchorage, AK via Canada. It has never let us down, always been a great car

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  2009 Mazda 6 i Touring w/Conv pkg - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Brian - April 25 - 1:23 am

  I have to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed the 1,200 miles driven on my Mazda 6 since the purchase. I decided to go with the 2.5L instead of the 6 cyl because of the commute that I have and with gas prices on the steady rise the choice was simple. When looking to replace my Mazda 3 (manual), I looked at many different vehicles, but in the end came back to the Mazda 6. The 2.5 has plenty of get-up and go for everyday driving. I also like the new interior n the 09 models. No offense to Toyota, but Mazda takes first in that category. As far as fuel economy, I am averaging 28+ mpg with blended driving of highway and city. Not bad for a car this size. Great Job Mazda

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  Hot hatch levels of performance in sedan - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Will Levine - April 20 - 6:23 am

  This car is amazing. Sure, some of the cars interior feels cheap, and the comfort levels could be better, but remember this car was cheaper than all its rivals, yet drove even better. Performance is fantastic from the 220 bhp 3.0 V6 engine, sometimes you dont realize exactly how fast youre going. A complaint would be that the manual mode is jerky and dim-witted, and doesnt auto blip on the down shifts. Both down shifts and up shifts arent instantaneous. Fuel economy is atrocious. Granted, I drive in a "spirited" manner, but i only average 17.4 mpg. I recommend the 4 cylinder model, that car weighs less, gets better mpg, and probably handles better. In short, its great, buy it.

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  It is a GREAT car!!!!!! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Kellys - April 16 - 10:00 am

  It is a great car to drive and just to admir. I would definetly recomand the car,

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  Zoom Zoom - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By cobrak - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Tremendous value and performance. handling is storng feature and build quality excellent.

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  Must Have Fallen Off the Truck! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By jstandefer - April 10 - 2:00 am

  The overall design is very good. It is comfortable yet sporty, with a nice interior and a lot of nice touches such as the standard steering wheel audio controls. The 4-wheel disc brakes are excellent. Unfortunately, I have had a lot of problems with this particular car, everything from drivetrain to interior to the infamous "staining". Perhaps this car fell off the truck!

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  Great car for the price - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Vicky - April 9 - 4:53 pm

  I had previously owned 3 large SUVs. Didnt know how I would like a small car. Got in the car and have never looked back. I feel very safe in the car and love the sporty look and feel of this car. This car also takes curves and turns wonderfully. Only dislike is the powder on the wheels from the brakes? Love everything else. Wouldnt hesitate to buy another.

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  Zoom-Zoom is only half the story - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By tidebelle - April 9 - 12:30 pm

  I traded my 02 Protege5 for my new 6i (standard model, no extra bells and whistles but very well equipped). The Protege5 was an awesome little car, and I actually miss it at times. Ive only had the 6 for a few months and I really do like the get-up-and-go. Its a really smooth ride, quiet, and easy on the eyes. I dont like the cup holder placement and am not happy about there being no ash tray or lighter. Not even the option to purchase. The turn radius isnt as sharp as Id like it to be, but overall, so far, Im happy with my choice. Mazda has a great warranty. If youre searching for classy style, power and great gas mileage, search no more...Mazda6 is the one!

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  The Best Mid-Size Sedan - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Matt - April 8 - 8:46 am

  The new redesigned Mazda6 exterior and interior and very nice. I bought the S Grand Touring. The 272hp is quite powerful. I have clocked the car going from 0-60 in 6.1 secs. According to Edmunds.com, "the Mazda 6 is more powerful and quicker than the Total Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Ford Fusion. For the price, it is actually the most powerful car you can drive. Love the blind spot monitoring system. The leather seats are very comfortable. It is nice to have heated seats in the winter. Love the Bose system. The car has wonderful steering and control. The 5 star crash test rating gives me a piece of mind. I love the headlights. Overall, I love the car. I recommend it.