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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  Loving my new Mazda6 - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By bdl - August 2 - 5:46 pm

  I have not owned the car very long but it is fun to drive. I have had nothing but compliments and friends have been impressed with how comfortable the seats are.

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  Be careful with this one.... - 2011 Mazda Mazda6
  By thill357 - August 1 - 7:15 am

  This is my first time owning any mazda and for the most part I can say it is OK. I own the Touring Plus model with a few extra features. First thing I must say is the car is very slow and the 4 cyl seems lousy and sluggish. It is a very loud engine for not being that fast... The extorior styling is beautiful. I love the trunk, even though fitting some larger boxes through the small opening can be difficult. Since the day I owned the car, the radio has been very staticy and even when close to local radio stations. Tried to take it back and get repaired and they said it was fine, which it is not. Heritage Mazda of Towson has bad service and is pretty expenisve. Prefer the Camry SE over this...

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  Fun sports sedan! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By mmsim - August 1 - 1:04 am

  This was the first car I purchased myself. Im the second owner of an 06 Mazda6. In regard to appearance, this car is definitely "sexy", especially in the Dark Cherry color I have. I drove an 03 Toyota Camry before this Mazda6 and I can assure you, the Mazda6 is sportier, smaller, and more fun to drive. I havent had any serious issues with the vehicle, besides the routine maintenance (oil change, tires,). I had one mechanical problem when I first bought the car but it was under warranty so no cost to me. The speed and handling of this vehicle is up to par; it exceeds my expectations, especially being a 4-banger. Overall I would HIGHLY recommend this vehicle to any prospective purchasers.

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  MUST Buy - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Roger - July 30 - 8:20 pm

  Owned many a Mazda - B2000, Miata(x2), MS3, M6 (2006) and now the 2009. Ive never posted a review but thought this time I MUST. Every year Mazda just gets better and better, this current 2009 Mazda6 is the biggest bang for the buck BY FAR overall. Mine is the Mazda6I Grand Touring 4-cyl with the optional Moonroof & Bose Pkg. I owed 10k on my previous M6 & traded up for the new 09. I need to mention... 130,000 miles with not one single problem, just tires brakes. With that excessive mileage, the bluebook value had me under about 4 grand. Times are tough right now, so the dealer was kind enough to pay it off and not jack the MSRP price of the new, do the math 4$$$ shaved. Oh,BTW, 30MPG baby!

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  You cant go wrong with this car! FUN - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Fortunato - July 29 - 12:13 pm

  I bought my car a couple weeks ago from the Toyota dealership I work for; it was a trade-in. As soon as i saw the car, i fell in love (Ive been a mazda fan my whole life). I used to have a 03 Protege5 5spd, which i think is the best car Mazda has made. This car gets the job done with a fun flare. With the ferrari red exterior, it certainly brakes necks. Its not the quickest but it is definatly fun to drive. Very comfortable and versitile, going to and from work and taking it out with your friends at night, its just a very fun drive. Definatly recomend it!

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  I love my Mazda! - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By BRIANNE - July 27 - 8:03 pm

  Great car all around. If you drove a coupe and you are hesitating to buy a 4 door because you dont want to look like you are driving Moms car then give this car a try. Great for young people and the young at heart. When you test drive the car you will fall in love!

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  2003 Mazda6 i - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By August - July 24 - 4:16 am

  First two years, great car, fun to drive, great looks, everything. Then the car starts to idle roughly, which triggers check engine light. Take it in for a diagnostics test, and it says to replace camshaft position sensor. Did that, only to have the car get worse. Take it into the dealer, who states that the cars engine has suffered a catostrophic failure. Oil burned up fast due to the cylinder head rings cracking. That resulted in the pulleys breaking off. Funny thing was, oil was replaced 4K before this happened, and no oil light ever came on throughout the entire ordeal. Fought with Mazda hard, but they never budged, so I got stuck with paying 3K left on a car that I dont even have.

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  I love my Mazda6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Manny - July 23 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy driving this car. Its comfortable, roomy, smooth driving, and I love the gas mileage. I was going to buy an Altima or an Accord till I test drove my Mazda6; I really liked it so I bought it. I recommended it to a friend and she bought one too.

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  GREAT CAR - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By MN6Owner - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car off the reviews of many others. Pluses: sporty feel, good gas mileage (average 24 with city/highway drivin), fun to drive, love the autolevel volume control for radio, trunk space is huge. Cons: Interior is cheap, no padding on door rests for elbows (Camry has nice padding), rattles underneath the gear shift, no torque from 1K to 2.4K RPM, no overdrive for automatic. Front seats could have more padding. These are all minor thnings for the first 3000 miles I have owned it. Considering trading this in for a bigger car because I am not sure how a baby seat and a booster seat for my 3 year old is going to ride. The AC takes a bit to turn on

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  Sleeper - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mgrabo - July 15 - 11:23 pm

  A really great option to the garden variety commuter cars despite gas mileage is in the low 20s (partially due to my shift points ;-). It has a very eager, smooth running motor & handles very well on the stock 17" rubber. In wagon format, it really occupies a niche of one (220hp V6, handling biased, manual transmission wagon under $25k). If you dont demand 30mph from a daily driver, the Mazda6 is worth taking a close look.