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2nd
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Model: 2009 to 2013 Mazda6
Vehicle Type: Sedan
The Verdict: The last-generation MAZDA6 was loved for its style, design, and performance -- and it looks like a solid used-car buy, too.
Price: Second generation MAZDA6 prices span widely, though shoppers after a more basic, 4-cylinder model with some miles can expect pricing to start around $9,500 and climb as high as $30,000 for a 2013 “demo” model with minimal miles on a fully loaded unit. The market offers plenty of selection from about $11,500 to $17,000, depending on the model and options required.
What Owners Like: Styling, both inside and out, were big draws to the second-generation MAZDA6 -- as was its refinement and availability with a manual transmission. Visibility, feature content, overall roominess and even instrument cluster lighting were all highly rated, too. Performance from the V6 engine is rated highly, while manual-equipped 4-cylinder models are said to be peppy and fun to drive.
What Owners Dislike: Some owners wish for better fuel economy, richer interior material selection and the availability of a manual transmission with the up-level V6 engine.
History/Description: This second-generation of Mazda's zoom-zoom sedan was much like the first in that it offered five-passenger seating, 4- or 6-cylinder power, automatic or manual transmissions, and came only in front-wheel drive. Softer, bigger, and heavier than the original MAZDA6, this second-generation car was bigger on comfort and refinement, though somewhat at the expense of all-out performance.
Look for feature content including push-button start, navigation, premium audio, automatic lights wipers, and climate controls, heated leather seats, and a full range of safety gear.
Look for a 2.5L 4-cylinder with manual or automatic gearboxes, and an available 3.7L V6 that came exclusively with an automatic transmission.
Common Issues: Numerous owners reported premature wear from the factory brakes and tires. Though this will largely be a function of driving habits and locale, be sure to inspect the condition and remaining life of both components ahead of your purchase.
Check the rear taillamps for signs of internal melting, possibly caused by assembly materials that can't withstand the heat of the bulbs. Though the exterior lenses aren't known to melt, the interior components might, which could be a visibility-impeding safety issue.
Check for proper operation of the air conditioner, and be sure both xenon lights, if equipped, are working properly -- as they can be pricey to replace when burned out.
First-year models from this generation may be affected by erratic engine behavior in the form of stumbling and hesitation, possibly alongside other electrical issues that may be caused by a faulty wiring harness. These issues seemed to affect first-year (2009) models only.
Systematic or serious issues relating to the second-generation MAZDA6 are virtually nil in all checks of online owner forums. Keep in mind that proper maintenance is key to any vehicle's long-term durability and reliability and that a fresh tune-up and full fluid change in your new-to-you MAZDA6 can go a long way to adding confidence to the purchase.
Vehicle Type: Sedan
The Verdict: The last-generation MAZDA6 was loved for its style, design, and performance -- and it looks like a solid used-car buy, too.
Price: Second generation MAZDA6 prices span widely, though shoppers after a more basic, 4-cylinder model with some miles can expect pricing to start around $9,500 and climb as high as $30,000 for a 2013 “demo” model with minimal miles on a fully loaded unit. The market offers plenty of selection from about $11,500 to $17,000, depending on the model and options required.
 |
| Photo: Sébastien D'Amour |
What Owners Like: Styling, both inside and out, were big draws to the second-generation MAZDA6 -- as was its refinement and availability with a manual transmission. Visibility, feature content, overall roominess and even instrument cluster lighting were all highly rated, too. Performance from the V6 engine is rated highly, while manual-equipped 4-cylinder models are said to be peppy and fun to drive.
What Owners Dislike: Some owners wish for better fuel economy, richer interior material selection and the availability of a manual transmission with the up-level V6 engine.
 |
| Photo: Sébastien D'Amour |
History/Description: This second-generation of Mazda's zoom-zoom sedan was much like the first in that it offered five-passenger seating, 4- or 6-cylinder power, automatic or manual transmissions, and came only in front-wheel drive. Softer, bigger, and heavier than the original MAZDA6, this second-generation car was bigger on comfort and refinement, though somewhat at the expense of all-out performance.
Look for feature content including push-button start, navigation, premium audio, automatic lights wipers, and climate controls, heated leather seats, and a full range of safety gear.
Look for a 2.5L 4-cylinder with manual or automatic gearboxes, and an available 3.7L V6 that came exclusively with an automatic transmission.
 |
| Photo: Sébastien D'Amour |
Common Issues: Numerous owners reported premature wear from the factory brakes and tires. Though this will largely be a function of driving habits and locale, be sure to inspect the condition and remaining life of both components ahead of your purchase.
Check the rear taillamps for signs of internal melting, possibly caused by assembly materials that can't withstand the heat of the bulbs. Though the exterior lenses aren't known to melt, the interior components might, which could be a visibility-impeding safety issue.
Check for proper operation of the air conditioner, and be sure both xenon lights, if equipped, are working properly -- as they can be pricey to replace when burned out.
First-year models from this generation may be affected by erratic engine behavior in the form of stumbling and hesitation, possibly alongside other electrical issues that may be caused by a faulty wiring harness. These issues seemed to affect first-year (2009) models only.
Systematic or serious issues relating to the second-generation MAZDA6 are virtually nil in all checks of online owner forums. Keep in mind that proper maintenance is key to any vehicle's long-term durability and reliability and that a fresh tune-up and full fluid change in your new-to-you MAZDA6 can go a long way to adding confidence to the purchase.