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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  My awesome ride - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By nobouncecap - November 10 - 8:03 pm

  First a foremost Im conformable in this car and Im 64",I have plenty of leg/head room. The engine and transmission are great together and the car just begs to be driven fast. The firm suspension is tight/firm but it brings fun to driving again around corners; on flat surfaces its rather smooth. 40mpg is an easy mark to hit on Hway. I have had no issues with the media system and my usb just plays songs like it should, it connects well with my phone too! This car really is fun to drive and with the manual is great! I test drove the Optima, Accord, Fusion and this car bet them all in comfort, features, handling, and style! Get it and youll love it.

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  Ok, for the price - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By jayw - November 3 - 6:20 pm

  Fun car to drive,looks cute,sporty handling,however seats squeak horribly since day one, paint chips and scratches easily,interior doesnt hold up well-seats and dash trim,gas mileage- max 28mpg hwy driving no more than 65 mph. (would love to know how others are getting 30 mpg +, as they say they are! Dont think its possible, not even using cruise control) Have already replaced catalytic converter and rear main seal at 30,000.Heater has rattling noise that no one can seem to figure out what it is.Has alot of road noise.Would rather own another accord or camry for sure.This car is more comparable with a corolla or civic.Not as impressed with it as salesman was.

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  Mazdas Fusion Fighter! - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By harrison310 - October 31 - 3:33 pm

  Looking to replace my 2010 Fusion, I was *this* close to choosing the redesigned 2013 Fusion, but luckily waited a couple weeks for the new Mazda 6 to arrive. The 6 has a much more driver-oriented dash than the Fusion. MyFords touch screen is simply hideous, while my 6s Technology package includes the Command Knob which is like the BMW iDrive. The 6s Skyactive engine delivers plenty of power without the added complication of Ford turbocharged engines (already 4 recalls!). While both 6 and Fusion are beautifully styled, I think the 6s high end Jag-like looks will wear better.

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  not too shabby - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By screwedinaz - October 29 - 12:32 pm

  So i decided to trade my hyundai for one of these. while i have not really driven this yet i can tell it should be fun. i have more room on the inside and the layout is basic. I opted for a base model minus the the fancy radio and gadgetry. also the price was right. so far it rides well throttle response is better and the ride is very quiet. the 4 gerbils under the hood seem to be very happy and get the wheels moving quite quickly. i dont know about fuel economy but i expect it to be rather decent for a 4 cylinder. note i have only owned this for about 5 hours.

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  Mazda Fun - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tim - October 27 - 2:56 pm

  I researched and test drove all competitive models before making my purchase. As soon as I drove the new Mazda6, I knew it was the one. The mix of power, sport, comfort, and styling is unmatched in the class. I drive a lot of miles per year and have already racked up 6K miles. I have been getting about 28 MPG on average, with a lot of those miles spent at 80 MPH on the interstate. My only complaint so far is the transmission. It seems to shift lazily at times, especially during 1-2-3 transition, and when coming to a stop you can actually feel the trans downshift. But overall, I have been very pleased with the car.

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  first time Mazda owner - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By proudmazda - October 27 - 10:00 am

  After a lot of research, we bought our first Mazda. A sepang green metallic Mazda 6 with the sport package. After taking it on the first long weekend trip, we are amazed at the excellent gas mileage it got. We were concerned about pick up being that it was a V4, but our worries were put to rest. We traveled on heavy traffic highways, and passed any vehicle with ease. There were many times we caught ourselves going 80 without even realizing it, that is how smooth and powerful the ride was. We would recommend this vehicle to anyone, without hesitation, and that is what we didnt have with this Mazda 6 ......hesitation :) zoom - zoom

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By sthnbelle - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I just bought the 5-door Mazda6 two weeks ago and am very pleased with it. Mine has the optional sunroof w/visor, Bose sound system, security package, and side airbags. It is very sporty looking and has enough room for five average-sized people to fit comfortably. The 5-door even has enough room to fit a months worth of groceries when the back seats are folded down. The Bose sound system provides excellent sound quality. I feel that this car is a great value for the price.

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  Awesome! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Dakart - October 21 - 10:00 am

  My Mazda6 was my first car and I love it! Though, the seats can be slightly uncomfortable on very long road trips, what can you expect from a ~ $20,000 car? I have gotten many complements about how good it looks, sounds... Lots of people assume that it is a very expensive car.

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  Check Engine Light - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Larry56 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Mazda for 3 months. Aboutr 1 month ago the check engine light came on. I checked the gas cap and found it was loose. The light went out. About 3 weeks ago the light came back on. I took it to the mazda dealer and they said they fixed it. I got the car back and the light came on that night. I took it back to the dealer. They said it was a sensor and they had to order it. It sould be in next week. I hope this is the problem!

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  I love the Mazda 6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Susy - October 18 - 4:53 pm

  I love the Mazda 6; before this one i had a 1994 Mazda 626 and I also had a great experience. I would recommend everyone to get a Mazda. What I love the most about them is that they are economical when it comes to gas money. I also love the exterior of the cars. I hope that as the years go by they continue to improve the cars.