Review
Introduction
When it debuted in 2003, the Mazda 6 set itself apart from its occasionally dowdy mid-size competition by offering a real sports-sedan driving experience. Manual transmissions were available across the lineup, a lineup that would eventually include a sedan, a wagon, and a five-door hatchback. In-house tuner Mazdaspeed even created a 6 of its own. The Mazdaspeed 6 boasted all-wheel drive and a 274-hp turbocharged engine. Now in its last year of production, the current-generation Mazda 6 is only available as a sedan and hatchback—slow sales killed the wagon and Mazdaspeed versions.
Built on Mazda’s excellent front-wheel-drive architecture, the 6 is also the basis for Ford’s slightly larger Fusion sedan. Compared with its competition, the 6 is an agile, fun-to-drive sedan. If one only examines the numbers, the 6 looks a bit smaller and less powerful than the newer entries in the category, but the Mazda is nevertheless still worth a long look. On the road the 6 can feel a bit less substantial than its direct competitors. Road noise, suspension noise, and less than stellar interior materials make the 6 feel a bit less refined than some of its competition.
Buyers face two engine options: a fuel-efficient 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 156 horsepower and a 3.0-liter V-6 with 212 horsepower. The four-cylinder engine is available with a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic; the V-6 gets a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.
Major competitors to the Mazda 6 include the Chevrolet Malibu, Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata, Mitsubishi Galant, Nissan Altima, Pontiac G6, Saturn Aura, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat.
Verdict
The Mazda 6 features an excellent chassis, a handsome exterior, and decent powertrain choices. Although it is slightly smaller than some of its competition and is lacking in refinement, these complaints may not concern those looking for a sporty family sedan. An all-new Mazda 6 will debut for 2009.
Click here to read our full review of the Mazda 6.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Mazda 6.
What’s New for 2008
The current Mazda 6 goes through its last year before a major redesign with only minor changes. Tire-pressure monitoring is standard, a Bose stereo system is standard on the Touring trim level, 17-inch aluminum wheels are standard on Sport models, and a security alarm is now standard on Sport VE and Touring models. Mazda is offering two new colors for 2008: Volcanic Red (sedan only) and Silver Metallic. The hot-rod Mazdaspeed 6 and the family-friendly wagon are discontinued for 2008.
