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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  Initial thoughts - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By choppa - June 23 - 3:00 am

  Previous Honda Accord owner who in the end was looking for something a little bit different. With the latest Consumer Reports Auto edition praising the new Accord, along with my bias towards Honda, I was sure I would end up in a new 2013. Driving what everyone else drives wasnt a big concern to me. However, I took the time to get to know the redesigned Mazda 6. There were many positives - styling, interior look/quality (especially on GT), EASY to use tech features, fun to drive factor, innovative skyactive engine, chasis, tranny (for those not into CVTs) and Mazda reputation for quality. In the end, there was enough to push me in a new direction. Time will tell but I like it so far.

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  Ok, I guess - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Admoc - June 17 - 10:03 pm

  I traded my Mazda6 i Sport for this new GT V6 model thinking it would be much better. I was thrilled with my 4 cylinder car, and I really cannot notice much more zoom-zoom in this new one, unless Im going up a hill. Nice new features that can be found in luxury cars. Gas mileage is horrible even reving the car low with a stick shift, but it was to be expected coming from Mazda. Everyone admires my car. Although I would recommend getting a GT I with 4 cylinder instead of an S with a V6.

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  Best Commuter Car Ive Ever Owned - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By avelectro - June 16 - 12:00 am

  My previous car, a Mercedes C220 purchased new in 1996, was a great car but this 6s Grand Sport is way better for around town commuting. The climate controls are very easy to use, HID headlights are a big plus, and the V6 is so smooth I have found myself driving in manual mode wondering which nearby car is making the high-rpm noise. It really is that smooth. My daily commute burns fuel at a 28 to 30 mpg rate, depending on the weather (A/C on or sunroof open). I drive conservatively, keep the tires at 40 psi and the six-speed automatic shifts into high gear at 42 mph, all of which gives much better mpg than I expected. Highway mileage is unknown - Ive only driven it in metro Phoenix.

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jeremy - June 15 - 4:03 pm

  I just go rid of my GM car and purchased a M6s sports package. I have had it about a month now and love every second of it.

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  perfect - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By zac baum - June 15 - 10:00 am

  With the double wishbone tuned suspension It feels very nimble. This car gets driven in tiptronic. On the high way the 6s shines pulling away from any car.Doing 65 in 5th gear then switching down to fourth gives you what i call passing power.This is no normal clutch. It allows you to drive in manual or automatic w/o the H or clutch. The one thing i dont like is you always have to have the engine revving to get performance. Under the hood is a 3.0 liter v6 w/ varible valve timing pushing out 220hp at 196 pound ft of torqe. My son like to switch the gears for me because its that easy. Mazda hit the jackpot with this car also it is very affordable.

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  Not on par with other japanese cars - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By nestorhdz - June 13 - 8:03 pm

  Nice, agressive looking and responsive. Easy to handle on high speeds. During the first year of combined highway and city use there are major issues that didnt appear on other cars Ive owned (Toyota, Opel, and Chevrolet). Unoccupied passenger seat and front speaker make noise as if I was driving an truck 10 years old. The radiator heat sensor was stuck and the car overheated (covered by warranty). Front disc brakes lasts less than 10,000 miles (its less than 20,000 mi and its the second change). Theres clearly audible noise in the front suspension on irregular roads. Overall, quality is far, far away from that of Japanese and American cars.

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  Get into a Zoom Zoom - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Dan - June 13 - 10:00 am

  Cool car. Loving the m6 6man! Got the I sport. No need fog lights (can install after-market later/cheaper) in area. 16" steel rims and tires will be replaced after tire wear with non-stocked 17" or 18" alloy rims and tires at invoice price. No need leather wrapped steer wheel and gear shift head. With that said. Go for m6isport over more expensive m6itour trim, the zoom zoom is the same!

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  The best I have ever had - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By webster6 - June 13 - 7:42 am

  I have owned 13 cars and this is by far the best car I have ever owned. I purchased it last year with 200,000 miles on it as a temporary car. However, I fell in love with my 03 Mazda 6 s. It handles great and I have put 36,000 miles on it myself. I have driven it on family vacations because its comfortable and reliable. When the battery started to go bad, it never left me anywhere. It made sure I made it to the auto parts store and now its just like new. People seem to complain if they get a lemon. That is a possibility with any car you buy. If I had to take a cross country trip tomorrow best believe I would hop in my 6 and zoom zoom with no hesitation.

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  The economy car that looks like a Zoomer - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By psennett - June 9 - 2:00 am

  What can I say. With Mazda giving away financing and our great experiences with Mazda, the 6i was a no-brainer. We got one loaded with everything except a cassette deck, and knocked about 2.5 off the sticker. It looks like a million bucks, but thats just me. Driving is taut and nimble, shifting is smooth (although mine is not, having had about four automatics in a row.) I read elsewhere about the transformation of the 4 cylinder at 3,500 RPM, and its true. Below that, its a nice looking grocery hauler getting near 40 mpg. Above that, and you feel some pull and muscle. Not a lot, but some.

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  2003 leftovers - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By krnjester - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Very nice car! I got one of the last ones at the dealership for real cheap.