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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  a - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By wife happy - December 20 - 2:50 am

  Ive had this car for a year, so far it is still a treat to drive. Its a great change from what is out there on the roads. For a family of four its a great midsize value. My wife loves it and has been more than pleased with it. Im impressed with Mazda, theyve done a good job with this vehicle.

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  19,000 miles later and still loving it! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By QTL - December 19 - 1:10 am

  (Black Manual Loaded)Ive had it for 1.25yrs, and I still look forward to driving it everyday. It has a lot of sex appeal both here and in Canada, and Ive noticed that a lot of other young professionals are now driving the 6. At red lights, girls have smiled and waved to me, and guys have challenged me to numerous races. It handles well, looks great, has all of the features I wanted, and was well priced. Fuel economy at 23.58mpg is alright considering the way I drive (yes I keep an Excel sheet with my car’s stats). Ive noticed minor rattles in cold weather, but I havent had any mechanical problems or had any unscheduled maintenance. I wish I waited for the 5-door.

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  Best looking car in the parking lot - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Bob NJ - December 8 - 12:03 pm

  Handles like an expensive sports car. 4cyl has good pep, manual shift is fun. The exterior design is number one with the great paint job. Getting 25 mpg around town with air cond full blast. Should get 400-500 miles a tank full.

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  Not quite Zoom Zoom... - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By datdude - December 2 - 5:03 pm

  Owned my 2005 Mazda6s Sport with 6 speed automatic for about a year. My reason for not giving higher marks in performance and "fun to drive" is due to the poor throttle response - delay when the accelerator is aggressively pushed. This is one of Mazdas early attempts at an electronic throttle (i.e. driver doesnt have a mechanic connection with the throttle; the computer senses the throttle input of the drivers foot and then opens the throttle accordingly). I did take it to the dealership and received the computer software fix which improved the response somewhat; however, the existence of this fix is Mazdas acknowledgment of the problem.

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  6S w/ 5M - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By MASL - December 2 - 2:00 am

  1 week old. Interior is a little cheap. Handling & acceleration are great. $19700 delivered including 5% sales tax.

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  A good value, real looker but needs improvements - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By jr60 - November 28 - 11:33 am

  I have had it for a year now with 15k miles and it has its good and bad points. The fuel mileage was a major factor in my choice but also wanted performance and drivability. Generally with a 4 cylinder you a lack the torque and power that you normally get with a V6. I am happy with what Mazda had achieved with this high compression 2.5 liter DOHC. Nice is being able to run on regular gas unlike the competitors who are using 2.0 liter turbo to get the same result. The fuel mileage is excellent averaging over 34 mpg under 60/40 highway/city driving. I figure every fill up and comparing against the electronic display with similar results. The six speed AT with manual override is awesome.

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  Better cars out there - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By greg - November 28 - 6:36 am

  This car is sharp looking and hatchback is awesome. Gas mileage and lack of hp is poor. Had a lot of brake rotor problems and a wheel bearing out at 50,000 miles. Eats tires every 30k despite correct alignment and quality tires. Car has excellent paint quality.

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  Outstanding car - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Lenora - November 27 - 8:56 pm

  I traded in a Toyota Camry on the Mazda 6 wagon. This car is a load of fun to drive. It allows me the feeling of owning a sports car again when I now have four children. I cant believe what a great solid car it is for the money. Congratulations to Mazda for the new generation Mazdas.

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  Still Having Fun - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Peaceflmeadow - November 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Mazda 6 in Sept 2003, and 5 months later am still having fun. Notes say that it is lacking power, but I find it quite decent except maybe out of the starting blocks. If I switch over to the manual ability, I can get a better reaction time. The handling is awesome, and I love the tight steering. Overall, I was looking for a 4 door car due to a growing family, but wanted to stay sporty and Mazda has filled the bill perfectly. Also, I didnt want to be in just another 4 door family sedan, and I still feel I have avoided that. Overall, very satisfied, especially for the money I spent.

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  Only a week old - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By RonG. - November 18 - 1:10 pm

  I only recently purchased this car and am so far pleased. After driving a diesel for the last 4+ years, even 170 HP feels strong at highway speeds! I wasnt sure about the "Red Mica" at first, but Ive grown to like it. It seems to be quiet at highway speeds and rides smoothly. I have to get used to the "Blind Spot" system. When you pass a car, or a car passes you in the adjoining lane, the yellow indicator light in the mirrors will light up. I wonder if it may cause other drivers to mistake it for a turn indicator & think youre about to change lanes on them. It will also indicate when youre driving next to concrete barriers and guard rails (sometimes).