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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  Consumer Review - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Suzanne Falke - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I just bought this car and i fell in love with after only 3 hrs of driving. Its safety features are excellent especially to new parents.

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  Impressive - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By pwhopkins1 - April 20 - 3:19 pm

  Mazda has really put the full package together with the new 6 - We previously had an 08 3, and loved it, but for much different reasons than how we now feel about the 6 - Every time I stop the car, I think to myself, this was made to be drive - This is a drivers car. Refined, but with some roughness around the edges that make it feel unique in a very busy segment. Love the fuel economy and all the technology in the GT - And the looks....... nothing like it in the segment -

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  Like it Better than Fit - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By nofitforme - April 18 - 1:50 am

  After failing to come to terms on a Honda Fit, I started looking for alternatives. For $400 more than a Fit Sport Automatic, I was out the door with this far more substantial and comfortable car. The rear seats fold down and the trunk is huge. All my friends and family, as well as myself, have been impressed with this car. Mine has automatic transmission, and side air bags. I also installed the Sirius myself (which I highly recommend). I have averaged 30.2 mpg in real world commuting driving. With the 18 gallon tank, you can plan to travel over 500 miles on a tank full. The car came with Michelin tires, power windows and locks, tilt and telescope steering and power mirrors.

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  Mazda 6 GT Winner over the Mid-size Vehicles - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By verysmartcar - April 17 - 5:38 pm

  Love, Love, Love the look and feel of the new Mazda 6. What a great looking car. Cant wait to go somewhere just to drive it. If you want a Mid-Size vehicle be sure to check out the Mazda 6 in the 2014 model year. Love the 19" wheels in the GunMetal Finish you only get with the GT, Leather Seats are very soft and feel good, love the looks of the front and rear. The GT Comes Loaded with all the options, added the Radar Cruise Control that works great. Bought the Liquid Silver with Black Leather that has the Red Stitching. The Nav is very easy to operate. The whole car is just a great value and has very sporty looks unlike the dull Accord or Camry.

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  Fun family car - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By a3photogod - April 16 - 3:56 pm

  After looking at a G6 and a Passat, the Mazda6 was the way to go. Sporty looks and handling, this car just wants to go zoom-zoom. This is a great value; side airbags, traction, ABS, all for around 22K. Plenty of room for the family. The hatchback opens up for more than enough room (only 10 cubic feet less than my Sorento). Solid feel, sticks to the road. Great profile. The Blazing Copper is hot, many compliments and catching people looking in and around the car. We are very pleased with this purchase. Keeps us 30 somethings feeling youthful, especially with kids. Great all around car; you must consider this highly when shopping for a mid-size sedan.

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  LOVE MY M6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By sun bum - April 16 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE MY M6. ITS SPORTY, SEXY AND SAFE FOR THE KIDS TO BE IN. DRIVES GREAT.THE INTERIOR IS COMFORTABLE AND BEAUTIFUL TOO.

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  love my wagon - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By yogagirl - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Ive only got about 1200 miles on this car, but so far I love it. I actually look forward to driving to work! Wagon utility in a sharp-looking, fun- to-drive car.

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  Not a family car - 2012 Mazda Mazda6
  By mommabllck - April 13 - 12:28 pm

  There are a few pros to this car however it doesnt function well as a family car. The latch system was too far into the seat which made uninstall difficult. The driver seat even though adjustable, just wasnt comfortable enough.

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  Update from "former camry owner" - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Karen - April 10 - 8:13 am

  I still love my Mazda6, but I have to downgrade the build quality(interior only) just a bit as Ive found now, a total of three "fit and finish" issues, all three being on the drivers side(maybe the result of a disgruntled, or "could care less" assembler on that side),e.g., small cover over speaker attached on one corner only, control switch panel "cover" on drivers door bowed slightly in middle, preventing a flush fit, and a 1/2 inch gap between plastic fits near console...None of these things are terribly important, but irritating. There isnt a single issue or problem on the passenger side. The car is still great fun to drive, and everything else about my previous review holds.

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  Looking For Reasons To Drive - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Duke - April 8 - 6:46 am

  Traded in my 2006 Mustang GT Convertible Premium Upgrade Package for this vehicle. Initially this was for practical reasons, I needed a Nav system, 4 doors and a larger trunk. Test drove BMW, Honda, and Toyota. All had pros and cons. The most awesome drive was the BMW but dollar for dollar the Mazda outshines all. Read all the reviews here and noticed a pattern, Mazda owners and BMW owners really rated their cars very highly and were passionate about their cars. Its amazing that I continually find more features about this car that I didnt fully appreciate. Now I am looking for reasons to drive! Also found a dealer that put zero pressure on me and invoice pricing without hassles!