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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  Happy so far - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By sbronemann - February 7 - 4:13 am

  Just have over 500 miles on it now and the first tank of gas returned 33 mpg. Very happy with car so far. Definitely will be adding cold air intake and window tint. Wish it came with privacy glass from factory.

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  over 1 year together - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By vonsippen - February 7 - 3:36 am

  Car runs great, but I still have the feeling that something will break down. The driving is not so comfortable, and the engine sound is too loud, it sounds like blender and both with the transmission, they think before they act. I saw more responsive trans than this one. Overall quality and ride is ok, not for elderly but still only for going to work and back. The best thing is THE LOOK. MAZDA6 looks like much more expensive car, paint job is great after a year looks shiny like new.

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  Great car - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mike - February 4 - 8:06 am

  When I was shopping for my last car, it came down to the 6 and the Pontiac G6. The G6 was a nice car, but the exterior looks and the availability of a manual transmission made the Mazda more appealing to me. The dealership I bought the car from had the worst customer service Ive ever experienced, but I love the car.

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  My New Mazda6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Melanie - February 4 - 4:30 am

  We just traded in a Lexus E300 (2000) for a new 2005 Mazda6 Sports Sedan, 6 cylinder, with all of the options. While its not as plush as my Lexus, it is much sportier and will be lots of fun! It has a roomy trunk and the backseat IS just as roomy as the Lexus. The ride and steering are different -- more like my old Volvo 850 turbo wagon (1996) -- tighter steering and I can feel the road. I really do like this car, though.

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  Jims opion - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By jimmyduncan - February 1 - 10:00 am

  So far great car. My 5 2" wife can see out and my 6 1" legs have enough room. Its a hoot to drive on mountain roads.

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  Total Package - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Faro - January 31 - 1:56 am

  I am the 2nd owner, bought it with 67000 miles. Currently 76,000 in a little over 8 months. Had a 97 Prelude (auto trans) previous to this and I can say that this car handles just as predictable as the Prelude, which was lowered 2 inches all around. It has just the right amount of power to merge onto the highway, to cruise on the open road, as well as passing someone on the highway. I have the manual tranny and so far havent had any problem. I do experience starter squeal from the clutch dust in the bearings, as well as a defunct CD player, and my fan control module went - causing the engine to overheat. The car does have its reliability issues, other than that, its a great all around car.

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  Manual transmission survives - 2011 Mazda Mazda6
  By oak6 - January 30 - 3:55 pm

  This car has got the look. To my eye, this is the most elegantly understated car on the road. Interior is huge. Comfortable and sporty ride. That said, this is not a genuine sports car. The acceleration is adequate but not stunning. V6 with manual would have been my choice; would have put more zoom in the zoom-zoom. Dash radio controls are easy and intuitive so I rarely use the steering wheel controls. I like the seat fabric. Seat is comfortable but back has a "V" shape side to side; Im not sure how that will feel on long trips. 30mpg so far. Owned 2 months, 1700 miles.

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  Best choice for a manual transmission - 3 months in. - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By stirmyown - January 17 - 2:46 am

  When youve got to stir your own gears, your choices are limited these days. It seems like you can do it if you opt for a stripped down small car, or a tricked-out european performance sedan. In the mid-level market there is pretty much Mazda and Subaru. Good luck actually finding a stick in America for any other brand. Since I have kids in car seats, rear seat room was an issue. Car seats are ridiculously huge these days. So I had to go a little bit bigger but I didnt want a large SUV. They just arent fun to drive. I loved my old Subaru Forester, but unfortunately Subaru killed the driving feel in their effort to mass-market and Camry-ize the new Forester and Outback.

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  A Great Car So Far - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Chris - January 16 - 4:23 pm

  Bought the i Touring automatic in July, and have 8500 miles already. The only complaints so far are that acceleration is sluggish with the A/C on, and that the A/C doesnt blow as cold as Im used to. This is a great family hauler with sporty looks; much more masculine than the Accord/Passat/Camry/Sonata bunch. Averaging 27 mpg in mixed driving and 32 in straight highway driving. So far, Im pleased.

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  Hot Sedan - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Coral - January 16 - 9:16 am

  Outstanding sedan; excellent pick-up and hot on the pedal. Sweet spot around 3500-4000 RPM. Nice interior and good amenities. Aftermarket stereo is not an option due to panel design (only drawback). Comfortable ride and fun to drive. Very reliable and solid automobile. Highly recommend this vehicle if youre looking for a sport sedan - many model variations to choose from.