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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  GOTTA DRIVE IT TO BELIEVE IT! - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By MAZDEE - February 21 - 1:10 pm

  I love this car! Its my first MAZDA and I cant believe how happy it makes me to just sit behind the wheel. WOW! It hugs the road and loves to let its power be known to all. Its cool to see people check out your car.

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  Beefed-up 6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By neobopr - February 15 - 1:33 pm

  When I purchased my manual 05 a year ago it only had 13k on it (now it has 28k). I immediately added a cold-air intake and swapped in the mazdaspeed springs. I also added a takabe strut tower brace in the spring. What a huge difference! In my opinion, this car is now the complete equal of any of the best BMW 3 or 5 offerings aside from their "M" series--and at a very "non-BMW" price. Everything else is stock including the tires which I will be replacing with Falken ZIEX 512s in the late spring. This car replaced an 88 Porsche 944 which had been a project car. Here is a significant statement, with the alterations to the 6, I do not miss the 944, plus with 4 doors and a trunk!

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  Dont buy from company whose motto is "Cant guarantee how long this car will last". - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By la_fiera2000 - February 12 - 8:59 am

  I bought this car new in 2003 with a 50k warranty. I complained several times about misfiring after 1 month and dealer never found the trouble. At 55k miles the trouble was found to be the Throttle Body. I wrote to Mazda and they said "Sorry, but we cant guarantee how long parts will last after warranty." After that the right control arm broke twice(most of my driving is on the highway). Now, after 8 yrs of meticulous maintenance the compression valves gave out and will cost more to repair than the car is worth. I wrote to Mazda, and again their response was, "Sorry, but we can not guarantee how long our cars will last."

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  Biggest Bang for the Buck! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Scott - February 5 - 4:23 pm

  Shopped everything in the midsize range and nothing compared. My wife drives a 2002 which is a great car (paint dings way too easy) but the Mazda6 gives us the sports car we were looking for. We tried the MazdaSpeed6 and loved the turbo and the all wheel drive but could not justify the price jump. We went for the 4 cylinder over the 6 for mpg and the balance on the 4 cylinder seemed better. The automatic was nice but the 5 speed added more get up and go. I chose the moonroof package to gain the Bose sound system which is awesome! I drove a Grand Am and the Mazda 6 is so much quieter and more comfortable that Pontiac should be ashamed. The comfort and inside/outside style screams value.

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  A "Sporty" sedan, not a Sports Sedan - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By damon - February 2 - 7:53 pm

  I am a "driver" who was fed up driving a turbo lagged 9-3 (1999) in traffic without a decent cupholder. Gave up the manual and purchased a 2003 6 v6 with an automatic. The modern looks inside and out sold me - I wouldnt consider an Accord, etc. because of how common they are. I think this should be on the list for anyone looking at sedans but people who highly value sports handling should consider something else. This car is a very comfortable daily driver with everything at your fingertips. The engine is a blast in the mid-range but with the automatic the low end is abysmal. Dont expect quick shifts with the automanual - its better just to hold gears in turns. Handling is sloppy at higher speeds.

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  2003 Mazda 6 - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Craig Rintoul - February 2 - 11:10 am

  Great experience, had the car 4 years and not had a single mechanical issue. The 6s is a great car for long distance drives or around the city. It has the punch to get you around whatever situation presents itself but comfortable ride with excellent driver sear configuration.

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  Mins Mazda6 - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Min Kang - February 1 - 2:00 am

  Its very comfy, nice performance, durable car. But my car doesnt seem like 220 hp.

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  Simons 6s - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Simon d - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I highly recommend this car! The ride is smooth, extremely quiet and very comfortable. I was sold as soon as I drove it. The steering and handling are excellent and very responsive.The stock CD player/sound system is also good.

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  Best Car in its class - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Stuna - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I only have 2500 miles on the car but it has been a blast to drive. I looked at everything out there and the handling alone won me over. Little slugish in the low RPMs but moves after 2700 RPM. Transmision seems to adjust during driving. Dont know if it a variable transmision or not. Love the interior. Cloth seats are very comfortable.

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  Outstanding Satisfaction - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By fatelin williams - January 29 - 11:30 pm

  The ride is simply simple, classy and elegant with a smoothness like none other. From the interior to exterior design, simply perfection!