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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  Formerly Honda, now Mazda owner! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By traveler777x - October 11 - 7:46 am

  Ive had my 6i hatch (auto) for over 10 months and put on almost 14K miles. Mazda got it right! Im a former Honda Civic owner (15 years, 3 Civics) who wanted more features and horsepower and did not want to lose reliability. So far, I have had no issues (other than a little sputtering in the cold with no warmup). The 6i is not as quick to accelerate under 20mph as my Civic was, but its not a VTEC. The gas mileage truly stinks with the way I drive; Ive gotten as low as 19mpg and no higher than 26.5mpg so far. Car hugs the curves, though. I wish it came in a hybrid - Id trade this one in for it. The amount of room I have is astonishing. I recommend test driving to see if its for you.

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  2004 Mazda 6s - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mazda 6s - October 5 - 2:33 am

  I would have to say that my automotive preference is "luxurious sporty". I like cars that look good, handle well, and have enough power to do pretty much anything I want. The Mazda 6s is an absolutely fantastic choice if you are looking for the sportier version of an Altima, Accord or US class equivalent. The 6s handles like its on rails, accelerates extremely well, and stops on a dime. The interior is laid out very well. I first thought it was a little "too much" but once I got used to it the interior is laid out perfectly. The best part of this car is the price. For a car that costs $7k less than an Altima you get a lot more car. Oh one more thing, the traction control really works.

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  Im SO pleased! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Lauren - October 5 - 1:20 am

  I have been driving a beat up 99 Ford Escort for the past 6 years and couldnt wait to get rid of it. I finally got my first job and within a few months was ready to make my purchase. I originally decided on an mx-5 Miata but once I saw the new 6, changed my mind. I just couldnt justify paying the price for the mx-5 when I could get a fully loaded 6 for less. Went to the dealership this morning and drove away with a gorgeous i touring with convenience package in comet gray. The color is stunning and the car is amazing. I paid 500 below invoice and drove away in a car that some have already mistaken for a Lexus. Couldnt be happier.

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  mazda 6i - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By chefkrick - October 2 - 8:45 pm

  purchased mazda 6i with 85,000 KM Have it now 1 year. Looks and drives like new, no issues. Fun to drive and looks good. added a few mods, LED lighting and Hids. no issues at all for an older Mazda. When its time for a new car I will definatly purchase a new Mazda 6.

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  Nicest car Ive ever owned! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By wkidd1972 - September 30 - 8:16 pm

  Traded in my 2003 Protege for the new 6. I have never owned anything this nice before. Its such a "grown up" car, yet it retains that rebellious teenager behavior. I had the chance to drive a 2009 G37 and was blown away. The 6S GT gave me everything that G37 offered for about 12 grand less! No brainer! If Mazda keeps cranking out cars like this, I will be a customer for life!

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  LOVE IT!! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By LoveMy6 - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I had to buy a car back in February and at the time was unable to purchase the 6, despite it being the car I wanted. I went for the Protege5 and was very happy with it, but in the end the 6 won out and just a few days ago I traded in the Protege for my new 6i. I LOVE IT! Couldnt be happier! Roomy, quiet, fast, fun, reliable - what else could you ask for?! Ive been a loyal Mazda customer (owned an 89 and 94 626), but this is by far their greatest product to date!

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  So far so good - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Greg Davey - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased a 2004 last night. It doesnt appear to be much different than the 2003.

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  Decent car - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By M6 - September 17 - 1:50 am

  I bought this car used and when I took it for a check up there were no problems after two years of use. There was slight battery corrosion after a few months but it was easy to fix. The interior is awful, there are so many cup holders but cups wont fit in most. There are also a lot of compartments that even a CD holder wont fit in. This car is great on the highway but guzzles gas in the city.

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  Our 3rd Mazda! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By another mazda 4 me! - September 13 - 8:53 am

  We bought a 2007 Mazda5, then a 2009 Mazda5 for my wife. Now I wanted to spoil myself, and in addition to a big Ford 3/4 ton diesel pickup to tow our trailer, I wanted something nice, yet not as common and plain vanilla boring like a Honda or Toyota! The 09 Mazda6 is all new and a spectacular car, miles ahead of the competition on style, warranty and features...big value too. The Grand Touring S is near luxury, handles and performs with the class leaders, the fit and finish is world class, the pain job is layers deep and perfect. Incredible long non-copayment warranty is transferable includes a loan car when in for service. The interior is finished like an expensive business class car!

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  Mazda Builds a Winning Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tennisjon - September 13 - 12:00 am

  I traded in a 1995 BMW M3 and I have almost no regrets. The insurance dropped in half. The comfort level increased in almost every way. I love the interior and exterior look. The trunk is extremely roomy. I have had only 2 minor problems: A squeaky seat belt and center console (fixed).