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:

• 

  After many Toyotas, my first Mazda! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rob Bergeron - September 23 - 12:06 pm

  After many visits to Edmunds to review lots of cars, trucks, etc, I decided to focus on two hatchback/wagon types of vehicles to complement what I need to drive everyday. After test-driving the Malibu Maxx LT, and liking it, I still wanted to take a close look at the Mazda6 Sport Wagon. WOW! I am so glad I did! Gallo Mazda in Worcester, MA had a fully loaded Black Onyx Mazda 6 Sport Wagon with the Sport package. It has the Luxury Package, Bose, power sunroof, spoiler, and the best damn leather seats I have ever sat in!! All this for $21000! The car drives so smoothly, and the handling is better than anything in this price range (by far!). The hard work paid off....I made the right choice!

• 

  Nice Car for the money - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By raddad2 - September 22 - 8:20 am

  I just bought the 6-Sport Value edition. I really like the cars exterior appearance. Mine is black with the rear spoiler. Interior is nice but not overwhelming. I did not look at the upgraded models so I dont want to rate the interior too much since mine is pretty much just standard equipment but is still comfortable enough for the daily commute. The sunroof is nice but not really needed much in Seattle area. The drive is nice even with the small 4 cyl. 2.3 lt. engine, smooth shifting and gets up to speed just fine. Headroom is a little tight if your a taller person and rear seat area is a little cramped but is fine for a family with two young children. Fun to drive... zoom-zoom!

• 

  MZR - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Kupo-Chan - September 21 - 8:33 am

  This new 6 drives and feel like a sports car, at the same time it offers comfortable seating for all 4 passenger. Plus enough room for extra storage. The gear shifts with little efforts and the clutch has low resistance. The shift knob position is just about right but the radio control is a little our of reach at my seating position but thats what controls on the wheel is for. The 2.5 MZR engine makes your driving experience is quit fun.

• 

  Grand Sport - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By dano100 - September 20 - 4:00 pm

  Just purchased 2 days ago after trading in an 06 Civic (that had many issues) and am extremely impressed with this car. It was a leftover 06 that I got for almost $9000 off. It is not the fastest in its segment but handles better than anything in its class. And I know about handling (previous cars: Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, Miata, Honda S2000, an Acura CL and TL). I just cant get over how cheap the interiors are getting on most of the mainstream cars today. The quality of the materials Mazda still puts in the 6 is to be applauded. My only concern about this car is the durability of the engine, being a Ford block, but only time will tell. Right now at $9000 off this is the best car for the money.

• 

  Best Car for Tall Guys - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By YankeeSR23 - September 20 - 10:00 am

  First, Im 61" and have problems finding cars to fit me. I tried the Eclipse and Scion tC and found neither to have enough room for me. I tested the Mazda 6 cause it looked nice and was pleasantly surprised to find it had more than enough room for me. I loved the fact this car had everything I need within easy reach and the V6 was nice to drive. I bought an automatic and I have yet to regret the decision. The Bose audio sounds nice and the luxury package has options higher priced cars have like heated seats & heated mirrors. The sports package made this car look better and any other car. I bought the S sedan for 26k with tax and titles included.

• 

  Zoom Zoom, M6 - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By lynnita - September 13 - 7:16 am

  I have had my Mazda6 S Grand Touring for over a month now and I love it. It a great looking car while on the road and/or parked in a parking lot. You cant go wrong if you are looking to make a statement riding around time. "Zoom Zoom baby!"

• 

  FUN -- after the throttle body was replaced - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By libbyrae - September 5 - 1:13 am

  I fell in love on the test drive. All the fun interior toys, the spaciousness, the comfort, the styling, the quiet engine, the power! After a few months I noticed the engine lagged while it shifted gears, and it even shut itself off once. Not good. Then I took it in with all my complaints and they found a defective throttle body. If I had driven it much longer I could have done some serious damage to the engine. Now its fixed and its like having a new car again. Im still in love. I tested it once in the semi-snowy/icy Cascadia Mountains in Oregon and the traction control system kicked in nicely. Ill soon be moving from Nevada to Toronto, Canada. Cant wait to see how it does in the snow.

• 

  A great car for the money - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Uynix - September 4 - 3:40 am

  Lovely, sporty, a great car for the money. I got this car with incentives. The total came to about $18,000 total with a 6 year extended warranty. (Seems Mazda provides a cheaper extended warranty than some other brands).

• 

  Still Great After 31,000 Miles! - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By thebigbird35 - September 3 - 2:06 am

  I still love this car. Only complaint is Ive needed two alignments and gotta but new tires now. Breakaway mirrors and a bit better gas mileage would have been nice. But other than those quibbles, the comfort and handling and the sheer fun of driving remains exceptional. So much cooler than all the Camrys and Accords out there. Really sad Mazda ended the hatchback line in 07 -- big mistake! That rear space is so convenient for hauling stuff, and the hatchback actually looks better than the Sedan IMO. Id definitely buy this car again!

• 

  Zoom! Zoom! Gotta Luv It - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By matapeake - September 1 - 10:00 am

  Just stopped in Mazda dealer to sit in the RX-8 ended up buying Mazda6 - Fun to drive, dont want to get out ouf car. Excellent build quality, faster 4 cyl than Toyota or Nissan, Leather, Bose stereo, Dual exhaust, sunroof, very peppy engine all great. Gas mileage slightly disappointing but then again Im Zoom! Zooming! All the Time. Highly Recommend the Mazda6!!!