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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  Zoe - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Norm - August 19 - 2:03 am

  I really enjoy this car. I have only one complaint and that is regarding the car stereo. Mazda made it nearly impossible to replace the radio with an aftermarket model. Or at least have the option to install an Aux input module for my MP3 player. Otherwise I love this car.

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  Great Value! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mojay - August 18 - 11:50 pm

  We have had our 6s for 6 months without any problems. We had a VW Passat prior to the 6 and had countless problems with it. We love the sportiness of the drive and the high feature content in the interior. It was a great value compared with other vehicles with the same option list.

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  Great choice - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rich - August 11 - 9:23 pm

  Feeling the gas price crunch, I had to look at getting rid of my FX35 and get something with mileage. Looked at Accord, Camry, Altima, Fusion, Malibu, and finally came across Mazda. This is a fun car to drive, the steering is a little overboosted, but great mileage (avg 24mpg mixed), good brakes, comfortable, but a little sluggish. Feels lighter and smaller than it is. Glad I bought it, and saving lots of money each month!

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  2005 6Wagon - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Gary - August 6 - 6:36 am

  So far my Mazda6 Wagon has been a blast to drive. The sportshift auto keeps it interesting. Its been on three long trips (3 dogs-in back, bikes on roof, luggage on rear seats). Despite the seeming clutter of all that, it was surprisingly comfortable. Plenty of leg and headroom. On another trip, I had four bikes on the roof, all the gear in the back and 3 passengers beside myself. There was still plenty of room. The car is built solid...no rattles. The engine has plenty of power and is smooth (with the traction control turned off). The only problem, and its small, is the ticking noise (not the cams) just behind the passenger-side firewall. Its a solenoid that Mazda wont repair.

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  Want great handling, this is the car... - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By TeeCee - July 28 - 2:00 am

  Seats are very comfortable. Many different driving positions with tilt/telescoping steering column. Handling and braking are superb yet 17" rims compromise smooth city rides. Automatic tranee shifts flawlessly except at times of extremely rough accleration and braking. Braking in ALL weather conditions is extremely comforting with the ABS brakes. Radio and climate controls take ALOT of getting used to and have yet to become second nature even after two months. Storage is plentiful for maps, bottled water and coffee. Sharp car but needs tweeking here and there; MANY options that are only seen on more high end, costlier cars.....

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  Awesome Car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jeff - July 28 - 12:46 am

  I purchased my Mazda6i brand new with 55 miles on it. It currently has 97,000 miles on it. I chose the 2.3L 4cyl and I have had zero trouble with it. It handles like a dream and its a lot of fun!! I bought the sport package with moonroof/bose/17" wheels etc. Its been a great car and its paid for!! I will never get rid of this car and its absolutely wonderful to drive. I feel the same way I did when I bought it brand new. Confident and classy.

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  Really decent vehicle - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By realitycheck1 - July 19 - 7:41 pm

  Exterior design is very attractive. Excellent handling, good pickup from the 4cyl engine. Could be better on the fuel economy but not too bad. Ride is well controlled but it can be a bit busy. Decent room inside, good design to the dash board. Interior quality is a mixed bag. Some parts of the dash and doors are very high end but other parts are cheap feeling. Leather quality is decent, if a little stiff feeling, but it smells good though. Xenon lighting is excellent. I would suggest this car for those who like spirited driving, if you drive it softly it may leave you a bit cold.

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  Great Drivability but horrible interior finish - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By graym6 - July 6 - 1:32 pm

  Pros: I bought this car mainly because it has great exterior design and 6 automatic transmission. After I test drove Honda accord, I know I am not ready for CVT yet. I knew I made a right choice of buying Mazda 6. It drives amazingly well and has great handling. I give a special credit to front suspension which does the cornering without creating discomfort. Cons: Interior rattles a lot. This problem is already known for many Mazda 6 owners. If you just type the words "2014 Mazda 6 rattles" in google engine search, you will wonder if this is a new car. I just cant believe they dont catch all these rattling noises when they made prototypes. Granted, I bought Mazda not Toyota.

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  Nice, Fun to drive - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By NiceRide - July 4 - 10:46 am

  Have had the car since 11/09 and still get excited to hop in and go for a drive. There was one comment on road noise below, which it has some of but, much less than the new Accord we test drove. Getting about 23 MPG mixed. Great response when stepping on the gas and wanting to pass, dart, or just show off.

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  Can I buy another, please? - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By a_mightywind - June 24 - 11:13 pm

  Ive found this to be a terrific car. Its not your typical stodgy wagon. It is fun to drive, the interior fittings are excellent as is the build quality. I still love the aggressive exterior styling. Theyre not being offered in Canada anymore but, Im told, they are being offered in Europe. I hope that situation changes because I would be another for sure.