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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  I love my Mazda6 Touring, easily best in class. - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By sabbasmas - April 11 - 7:40 am

  I just got my Mazda6 Touring automatic (White ext. and Almond/black leatherette inter.). I traded in my rattle trap 2009 Nissan Altima Coupe for it. I had CVT transmssion and other problems and it dissuaded me from buying Nissans for the future. I have been waiting for the 6 to come out and finally got one last week. I am averaging 33 mpg during this first tank of gas. The interior quality is a full class beyond anything inthis price range and appears on par with the Volkswagen CC or BMW 3 series. The 19 inch wheels and body are sexy and surprisingly, the car still rides very well with such low profile tires. It drives smoothly, but is very aggressive when you want it to be.

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  love the car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mike - April 7 - 12:43 pm

  Great overall car. I would recommend this car to anyone who wants a sporty car thats not too big and yet not too small. The 4 door is perfect.

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  Great looking car, lots of tech, good mileage too; but need more power. - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By inwester - April 2 - 5:35 pm

  I got the 2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring in red, black leather interior with contrast stitching, Tech package and with mats, bumper applique etc. MSRP was $33.4k, got it for $30.7k and leased it for $370/mo with no down for 3 yr/15k lease. Now to the actual review of the car. The car just looks gorgeous and I always wanted a red car. The engine is under-powered, but the i-eloop gives great gas mileage (40% hwy/60% city = 33 mpg). The ride is a little harsh, especially for people in the back, the 19" low profile tires are overkill in my opinion. Interior materials are top notch, seats comfortable and Bose sound system is good too. Steering is a little light for my liking but its smooth.

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  Zoom Zoom! - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Anthony Saturno - April 2 - 9:00 am

  This is after driving 1200 miles. Wanting to replace my 99 Honda Accord V6 Coupe, I drove the Mazda, and a Pontiac G6. The Mazda was clearly the better automobile. The steering has a nice weight and feel to it. The car handles like a sports car, yet the ride is not jarring. The leather seats are very supportive. I love the 6 speed automatic and the ability to shift myself. And the color, Lapis Blue Metallic, is stunning.

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  Mazda6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jane - March 29 - 12:16 am

  This car is so much fun to drive! It handles great, and looks cool too! The size of a sedan, but the looks of a sports car. This is the first car ive ever bought, and I have no regrets!

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  Great car for the money - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By zoomzoom84 - March 26 - 5:56 pm

  The Value Edition comes very noticeable and usable features such as a power front driver seat, 6 cd changer, and 17" alloys. This immediately puts the Mazda above many of its 4 cylinder competitors. The ride is smooth, the seats are great for sitting in traffic and long road trips, and Ive averaged between 28-32 MPG for mixed driving! The styling is very trendy and the black casing for the tailights and headlights make it look extra sporty! This car is perfect for both commuting to/from work and for cruising around the city. The 5 speed manual shifts smoothly out of 1st and you can really feel the power at the top of 2nd and throughout 3rd. Engine is powerful enough for a 2.3L, 4 cylinder.

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  hate this car - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By cindy - March 25 - 7:23 am

  Have had far too may problems for a new car. Have been to dealer at least 10-12 times for defects, only to be told there arent any - none have been fixed. Dealership not very cooperative, they have a tendency to blame to consumer. My 5 speed does not shift properly - a lot of grinding and jerking, which the dealer blamed on my inability to downshift properly. I have driven 5 speed for 21 years - Ive got it down. The CD player skips even when driving over a stone. It was allegedly replaced - am taking to another dealer to have it "replaced" once again. Had several recalls, which I was only made aware of because I called Mazda headquarters. All in all, wish I never bought it.

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  Get yourself one! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By junior920 - March 24 - 10:36 am

  Just like pretty much everyone else that ended up buying this model, I drove everything in the segment; Accord, Camry, Legacy,etc. By far this car is the most exciting in all the things that I was looking for. The exterior and interior styling is unlike anything at this price, the performance is stunning and the wow factor is undeniable. The car is quick, quiet and a lot of fun to drive. Our friends said "nice Lexus", and it looks and acts like it belongs in that class.

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  Excellent Car! Zoom Zoom! - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Charlie - March 24 - 12:23 am

  This car drives and looks like a champ. The interior quality is good and body style looks great! It picks up pretty good for a 2.3 4 cylinder. Has better standard features than other competitors. You cant go wrong with the Mazda 6.

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  side view mirrors small - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By John - March 21 - 10:00 pm

  Great car for the $$$ coming from infinity g35. Still impresses. Kinda a poor mans infinity