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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  Amazing - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By newmz6owner - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I test drove three other midsize cars the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Subaru Legacy. Since I wanted a manual transmission and a V6 engine the three didnt compare to the 6s. I even drove all three with auto trans the V6 engines and I still wasnt as impressed than when I drove the 6s. Im very, very happy with my purchase, and I really look forward to my drive to work now.

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  Mazda 6 i (4 dr sedan) - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jen - October 6 - 4:50 pm

  I love my car! It is the perfect mix of classy and sporty! I used to have a 2 door car, but I really wanted a sedan after a while because I wanted easier access to my backseat, where I keep my school books... Also, I knew that I would keep the backseat neater if I had easier access to it! (I do!) However, Im only 20 years old and I wasnt really looking foward to giving up the sportiness of my coupe! I am so glad I found the 6, with its four doors and metal detailing in front I feel like I own a very classy car, however with its rear spoiler and trendy lights my car satisfy my desire for sportiness too! I get lots of compliments on my sharp ride!

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  Really great car! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By mazdaman24 - October 4 - 10:13 pm

  I bought this car a few months ago after my former Mazda Protege was totaled. I bought it because it was a great value, fully loaded V6 for $13k and only 27,000 miles. The interior isnt as rich as the new model but it is certainly respectable and intuitive. There is storage aplenty and its just the right size. The exterior styling is great, and the ride is firm but not punishing with the 18 inch wheels. The only downside is a slightly notchy transmission at low speeds, but at highway speeds this is the best car ive driven. The Ford-sourced V6 is potent, and I get between 24 and 29 MPG, excellent for a V6.

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  Everything I ever needed and more! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By NoBull6 - October 1 - 2:00 am

  I have the V6 with the 5-Speed manual. I really couldnt be happier with the car. The looks are amazing - everyone, male/female, old/young comment on how attractive the car is. My mom and my girlfriend both love it. The handling it outstanding, the power is ample. The interior is absolutely beautiful, with great fit and finish. Gaps between panels are practically non-existent. This car is so amazing I find myself making excuses to go driving just so I can spend more time in it.

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  Tons of Fun - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mtlaw3 - October 1 - 2:00 am

  Bought the 4 cyl. mated to the manual and I love the power it has. It rides well at high speeds and the steering is tight. Tons of fun to drive, especially through canyons.

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  So far so good! - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By 97buckeye - September 30 - 11:20 am

  I have had my 6 for a month now, and have put about 1,800 miles on it. So far I am loving it. The ride is firm but smooth, steering is tight and accurate and the Bluetooth features are awesome. I almost bought a Kia Optima, but once I saw the Mazda 6, I was hooked. I have been more than pleased with my mileage. I have been tracking it with an app on my phone and I have been getting around 33 mpg +/-, with a 60/40 highway/city split. This is about the same as my old 2002 Honda Civic! I have been keeping my speed in check and havent hot-rodded it too much, but I dont drive it easy either.

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  Wagon master - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By keeper - September 28 - 8:46 am

  I bought this new; the gas mileage was rated 21-27 and it took a year to reach that. On our last trip of 1000 miles we got from 25-30 which I thought was outstanding. Its fun to drive, corners nicely and has good brakes. The only problem Ive had is the air conditioner had to be worked on twice to get the proper cooling. Love the automatic climate control. Wish it had come with roof racks for my bike. Electric control for seats would have been great also, but its a good vehicle. Love the side air bags and safety features. It would be hard for a tall person to get in with a hat on.

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  Great Car, Limited Features - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Cynthia - September 27 - 11:16 pm

  This Car was my first "newer" car.Its looks were just amazing. It was sporty yet family friendly. As I have drove the car for the past year ive noticed that it has few features compared to a competition car such as a AUX port and automatic lights. It has also been having popping noise like a motor mount is went out. Its a great comfy car but it seems maybe it needed a little more built into it!

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  First Zoom - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By onedriver - September 27 - 6:09 pm

  My first Mazda and im not disappointed. The car feels very light and its very nimble compared to other models I test drove. I decided on the manual since I like to feel more involved when driving, the trans is smooth and has short throws compared to others. The design is sporty and refreshing compared to other mainstream sedans. 250 miles in and avg 30mpg but have been driving pretty aggressively, well have to see when the excitement subsides and see how much more I can get out of skyactive. Love driving this sporty sedan and the stares I get everywhere I go is a sign that Mazda has a winner here.

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  This is my 2nd 6s - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Greg Cotton - September 26 - 4:36 pm

  I bought this car to replace my 2003 6s, which my brother now owns. I put 97,000, mostly highway miles on it in just under 4 years. I loved the car! The 2007 is as close a replacement as I could get. However if I could get a new 2003 instead I would have. I prefer the 16 in wheels, the 5 speed automatic (the 6 spd downshifts at very modest hills and get the same mileage), the key/remote is way too big, and a number of small amenities in the interior have been dropped. The only thing I like better is the smoother frequency response of the new speakers: I find the 6 CD changer to be a pain, though. All that said, I still love the car, just not as much as my 2003!