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:

• 

  Bad Transmission - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By saltguy - March 5 - 2:00 am

  My wife bought this car almost four years and 54,000 miles ago. Just went out of warranty (50,000) and needs a new transmission. We took the car in a year ago, under warranty, and the mechanics couldnt find the problem we were having with the car slipping out of gear while accelerating. It started to get worse right after we went over 50,000 miles, so we took it back in. They isolated the issue, but said it wasnt covered by warranty anymore. No way a car with 54,000 highway miles should need a new transmission. And the fact that Mazda wouldnt stand behind the car tells me a lot about their confidence in their product. This was our first and last Mazda. Done!

• 

  Great!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By chino - March 1 - 2:00 am

  I love this car!!

• 

  I love my Mazda! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Sharon - February 26 - 9:13 pm

  We shopped long and hard for a car, comparing more than 10 manufacturers. We first drove a 2008 Mazda 6, and were not impressed with the interior room compared to others in its class. Once we got in a 2009 however, our minds were made up. We have owned it for 5 months, (8000 miles), and have loved every minute. The 4 cylinder has plenty of zoom-zoom, and gets good gas mileage. We average 26-28 mpg, and are pretty heavy on the pedal. Highway trips we get 31-32 mpg. Often while driving, I will smile at my daughter and say "I love this car". The grand touring would have been nice, but we couldnt justify the extra cost.

• 

  I love driving this car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By dvdgrog - February 26 - 10:00 am

  You actually have to pull out to know that the engine is running, because you wont hear a thing. A virtually silent drive. It hugs the road like no other vehicle Ive driven, and with all the power you could possibly want. And comfort! More support and comfort in the seat than in the former Mazda 626, which I found lacking in that department. Extremely comfortable. No complaints.

• 

  Mazda 6 is for drivers who enjoy driving - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By nicolo1 - February 26 - 10:00 am

  I was thrilled when I first laid eyes on the Mazda 6 in person, it looked even better than it did on paper. It had the sporty aimage I was looking for. The 6s interior is attractive and ergonomically sound. Both stereo and climate controls are easy to use. This isnt a pretender it is fast and handles great, with little cabin noise. Acceleration is responsive and the clutch and shifter are smooth. This car is quick 0-60 in 6.8 sec with a manual transmission, its .6 seconds faster than a V6 Accord. I know its not fair to compare manual to automatic, but you cant get a Manual V6 Accord sedan. At least someone is looking out for true drivers.

• 

  not the best car - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By blaze h - February 18 - 12:03 pm

  I bought my 6s as a repo from a bank. And ever since the brakes are shaky and theres a strange clicking sound coming from the motor that I have been told was a tension pulley and some grease will fix it. But it has 160k miles and its burning oil and I dont know why. Im thinking its the pcv valve but Im not sure. But Im constantly putting oil in it. Oh and my air intake tube is broken in half. And my mechanic duck taped it. So I need a new one soon.

• 

  Smooth and agile - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By koocct - February 17 - 1:23 am

  Purchased a 2003 Mazda6 s Sport with roughly 40k on the clock, onyx black. Exterior design still excites; truly a great-looking car. Interior design is good, but has a lot of cheap touches that scratch and wear out. 5-speed manual gearbox is a bit notchy and could have shorter throws, but a lot of fun overall. Suspension is nice and firm without being painful, but those looking for a Camry-like soft ride should look elsewhere. Steering is too light at low-speeds, but tightens up nicely as the car picks up speed. V6 lacks low-end power, but once the tach hits 5k the exhaust and the engine open up for some good force. Car understeers predictably; easy to control.

• 

  What a great car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By dave snell - February 17 - 12:56 am

  I have owned my new silver 6s with sports package and manual transmission for 2 months now and I am very happy. The only things I can fault it for is the turning radius and it can be difficult to launch in 1st gear because of the lack of torque. However once this car is off the line it is a hoot to drive. It handles superbly at speed and the engine comes alive at 3500 rmp. As a younger man I was a Datsun 510 lover, and this car takes me back to the fun days of rowing gears and tossing the car around turns. It is also the best looking car in its class (imo). Compared to the Accord, Camry or Altima this car has so much more personality and fun to drive factor. Why drive something boring?

• 

  Wonderful Vehicle--Reliable & Fun - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By William - February 13 - 9:13 pm

  I bought my Mazda 6 in the Spring of 2007. It has been a wonderful auto; truly fun to drive while providing reliability and comfort. I have no complaints. The Japanese engineers thought it out carefully as to what a driver enjoys while building a solid all-around vehicle. The internal layout of the car is superb for its class!

• 

  Mazda - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Kelly - February 10 - 1:46 am

  We purchased our 2004 Mazda 6 sports sedan and we love it. We were also testing a Pontiac Grand AM GT and the difference was incredible, You can tell right away the Mazda is put together very tightly. It has a modern look and very sleek design. This is my first non GM car and I couldnt be happier. Great fuel mileage too.