Back in 2004 and shortly after the Mazda 6 hit the market, it seemed like buying one was a pretty foolproof choice. In addition to capitalizing on a great new styling language, the sporty sedan and wagon from the alternative Japanese manufacturer began winning awards from international press and industry authorities in a big way. The 6 had arrived—and it was a sporty, nicely styled and fun-to-drive machine that made the Accord and Camry look downright boring.
The second generation of Mazda’s popular sedan flagship is now on sale—meaning the first-generation 6 has now transitioned deep into used-car territory. Like all used cars, it’s got a few common issues and trouble spots to be aware of when shopping. In all though, if functional and fun are priorities in a used car buy, it’s more than worth a look.
Mazda 6 came with two engine choices—namely a 2.3 litre four-cylinder with 160 horsepower, or a 3-litre V6 with 220. Transmission choices for either engine included a five-speed manual or an automatic with between 4 and 6 gears-- depending on the year in question. The important thing to remember is that unlike most competitors, the 6 was available in a stick-shift—even with the larger engine.
Note that both engines used a timing chain as opposed to a belt that requires periodic replacement. This stands to save owners some maintenance costs in the long run, as the timing chain should last the life of the vehicle with regular oil changes.
Look for ABS, power steering, power windows and locks, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel and leather wrapped surfaces-- depending on the model in question. Heated, motorized leather seats were available, as were side and curtain airbags. Fog lamps, heated mirrors, a CD changer and big alloy wheels could be fitted, too.
When shopping used, note that the Mazda 6 GS and GS-V6 were the more basic models, and that the higher-end Mazda 6 wore a GT or GT-V6 designation.
Owner likes and dislikes offer few surprises. Most came for the styling and stayed for the exceptional handling, looks, and sporty, upbeat cabin. The 6 wasn’t as big as some of its competitors, but many an owner and publication have proudly heralded it as the true sports car of its segment.
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| 2008 Mazda6 |
The second generation of Mazda’s popular sedan flagship is now on sale—meaning the first-generation 6 has now transitioned deep into used-car territory. Like all used cars, it’s got a few common issues and trouble spots to be aware of when shopping. In all though, if functional and fun are priorities in a used car buy, it’s more than worth a look.
Mazda 6 came with two engine choices—namely a 2.3 litre four-cylinder with 160 horsepower, or a 3-litre V6 with 220. Transmission choices for either engine included a five-speed manual or an automatic with between 4 and 6 gears-- depending on the year in question. The important thing to remember is that unlike most competitors, the 6 was available in a stick-shift—even with the larger engine.
Note that both engines used a timing chain as opposed to a belt that requires periodic replacement. This stands to save owners some maintenance costs in the long run, as the timing chain should last the life of the vehicle with regular oil changes.
Look for ABS, power steering, power windows and locks, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel and leather wrapped surfaces-- depending on the model in question. Heated, motorized leather seats were available, as were side and curtain airbags. Fog lamps, heated mirrors, a CD changer and big alloy wheels could be fitted, too.
When shopping used, note that the Mazda 6 GS and GS-V6 were the more basic models, and that the higher-end Mazda 6 wore a GT or GT-V6 designation.
Owner likes and dislikes offer few surprises. Most came for the styling and stayed for the exceptional handling, looks, and sporty, upbeat cabin. The 6 wasn’t as big as some of its competitors, but many an owner and publication have proudly heralded it as the true sports car of its segment.
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| 2005 Mazda6 |