2003 Mazda 6 Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Replacing the 626 for 2003, the Mazda 6 is a slightly larger compact sedan with fresh styling and more power. The base "i" model uses a 160-hp 4-cyl engine vs. a 125-hp 4 cyl in the 626. The uplevel "s" has a 220-hp V6 vs. the 626's 165-hp V6. Manual transmission is standard. The optional automatic is a 4-speed unit on 4-cyl models, a 5 speed on V6s; both have a separate gate for manual shifting. All 6s have 4-wheel disc brakes. ABS with traction control is standard on V6s, optional for 4-cyl models. Front side airbags with head-protecting curtain side airbags are optional. So is a Sport Package with 17-inch wheels vs. 16s, plus a rear spoiler and other aero add-ons. All models come with a single-disc CD player, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and split/fold rear seatback. Optional are a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and in-dash CD changer. Mazda says the 6 will add wagon and 4-dr hatchback body styles for model-year 2004.

Competition

Playing the roll of crossover utility vehicle in a segment of sedans and wagons gives Chrysler PT Cruiser a leg up on the competition. It offers versatility and eye-catching styling not found among compact cars and this year adds more power with the Turbo model.

Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix are new this year and are worth considering as Recommended SUV-like alternatives. Hyundai's Sonata earns recognition for offering impressive comfort, equipment, and warranty coverage at a reasonable price. The all-wheel drive Subaru Outback/Legacy is another Recommended selection, thanks to a superb AWD system and roomy cargo holds.

News

Mazda6 is just getting started, but word is that initial sales are somewhat lower than expected. We're not sure why that is, but Mazda has already cranked up its marketing machine with hopes of juicing up demand.

Meantime, Mazda confirms the addition of 4-dr hatchback and wagon models for 2004, likely in the same two trim levels as the sedan. Not yet verified, but possible at some point fairly soon, is a tuned MazdaSpeed sedan and perhaps a wagon too. These would follow the extra-sporty youth-oriented formula of the 2003 MazdaSpeed Protege. Ford's Japanese partner is eyeing a stable of such products as an enthusiast-oriented sub-series. Still another prospect is a 6-based "sport wagon" patterned on the recent Sport Tourer concept, with raised suspension and all-wheel drive. No word yet on name or timing, but the new crossover would be a price rival for the likes of Subaru's Outback wagons. We hear it may arrive for model-year 2005.

2003 Mazda 6 Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (V6)	Acceleration (4 cyl/auto.)

Handling

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
5	4	6	5.2

Pleasantly peppy with 4-cyl engine and manual transmission. Acceptable with 4 cyl and automatic, where manual-shift feature can be used to restore some lost sparkle. V6 versions don't spring off the line and need higher rpm to really feel brisk, but lively enough with either transmission. Test manual-transmission s did 7.5 sec 0-60 mph. Automatics smooth, responsive. Manual has coarse shift action.

Fuel Economy

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
6	6	5	5.3

Test manual-transmission V6 versions averaged 20.9 mpg in mixed city/highway use, 18.2 with gas-eating performance runs. No chance to measure other models yet, but expect mid-20-mpg range with 4 cyl. Mazda recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.

Ride Quality

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
6	6	6	6.3

Taut, with some sharp reaction to pavement breaks at highway speed. But generally absorbent and comfortably controlled, even with Sport Package and its lower-profile tires.

Steering/Handling/Braking

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
7	7	7	6.1

Mazda aims for sports-sedan moves, and the 6 does feel agile, composed. Modest body lean in turns, responsive steering, great straight-line tracking, but V6s pull mildly to side during rapid acceleration. Wide turning circle hurts close-quarters maneuverability. Sport Package hones cornering grip, though 17-inch tires prone to slight wandering along grooved roads. Brakes strong, progressive.

Quietness

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
5	6	6	5.5

Both engines relaxed at cruise, emit pleasant pedal-to-metal growls, but neither is super-quiet. Rough-surface tire noise prominent, especially with 17-inch treads. Modest wind rush.

Controls

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
7	7	7	6.5

Mostly user-friendly. Unobstructed gauges, but not all testers like their red lighting. Main climate controls are simple knobs, but silvery finish makes their markings tough to read by day. Same goes for audio controls, which are also a bit busy in presentation. Climate, audio settings display near dashtop, remote from controls themselves. Test cars felt solid. Interior has nicely padded surfaces above door-handle level, disappoints with thin-feeling plastic below.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
6	6	6	5.9

Firm seats generally comfortable, but some drivers may want a longer cushion. Six-footers have ample leg room, adequate head room. Standard tilt/telescopic steering wheel a welcome plus, but may not tilt high enough for tall drivers. Optional rear spoiler bisects rearward view.

Room/Comfort (rear)

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
5	5	5	4.4

Seat support nothing special, but toe space good, and leg room exceeds compact-class norm unless front seats are moved well back. Adequate adult head room. Entry/exit easy enough despite narrowish thresholds and doors that could open wider.

Cargo Room

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
4	4	4	4.7

Flat-floor trunk nicely finished, roomy. Strut-type lid hinges don't steal space or threaten cargo, but opening not shaped to accept bulky objects. Spring-loaded rear seatbacks with in-trunk releases flop forward without assistance, but don't lie flat. Lidded dashtop bin contributes to above-average interior storage space.

Value within Class

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
6	6	6	6.2

Tepid 4-cyl/automatic acceleration aside, Mazda 6 delivers on its fun-to-drive promise, yet it's as practical as any compact sedan--and even some midsize cars. Pricing and equipment levels also are competitive. It merits a look, especially if you're a "zoom-zoom" sort of driver.

Total Score

i w/Sport Pkg., man.	i, auto.	s, w/Sport Pkg., man.	Class Average
57	57	58	56.1

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		43
Average Score		56
High Score		72

2003 Mazda 6 Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 04/11/2003

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

i 4-door sedan	$18,650	$17,205	$520

s 4-door sedan	$21,220	$19,569	$520

Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.

NA = price note available, NC = no charge.

Rebates and Incentives

There are no rebates or incentives at this time.

Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.

Standard Equipment

Powertrain

2.3-liter dohc 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission.

Safety

Dual front airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, emergency inside trunk release.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning, power steering, tilt/telescoping steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, illuminated visor mirrors, variable-intermittent wipers, map lights, rear defogger, automatic-off headlights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, 205/60HR16 tires, wheel covers.

s adds to i:

Powertrain

3.0-liter dohc V6 engine, traction control.

Safety

Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Automatic climate control, 8-way power driver seat.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Alloy wheels.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Premium Pkg.
i	$800	$640
8-way power driver seat, theft-deterrent system w/alarm, alloy wheels.

Sport Pkg.
i, s	$960	$768
Body cladding, rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, fog lights, 215/50VR17 tires. i requires Premium Pkg.

Comfort Pkg.
i, s	$220	$176
Heated front seats and mirrors. Requires leather upholstery.

Appearance Pkg.
i, s	$900	$720
Body cladding, exhaust tips.

Chrome Appearance Pkg.
i, s	$325	$260
Chrome rear finisher and bodyside moldings.

Powertrain
4-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
i	$850	$740


5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
s	$900	$783


Safety
Antilock brakes
i	$400	$320
Includes traction control.

Front side airbags
i, s	$450	$360
Includes curtain side airbags.

Comfort and Convenience Features
Power sunroof
i, s	$700	$560


Leather upholstery
i, s	$860	$688


Automatic day/night rearview mirror
i, s	$250	$200
Includes compass, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage-door opener.

Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
i, s	$635	$508


AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
i, s	$500	$400


Cassette player
i, s	$200	$160


Cargo organizer
i, s	$150	$125


Cargo tray
i, s	$50	$40
Std. w/cargo organizer.

Cargo net
i, s	$40	$32


Floormats
i, s	$60	$48


Appearance and Miscellaneous
Alarm system upgrade
i, s	$60	$48
i requires Premium Pkg.

Fog lights
i, s	$250	$200


Sport grille
i, s	$175	$140


Rear lip spoiler
i, s	$420	$336


Rear wing spoiler
i, s	$300	$240


Bright alloy fuel-filler door
i, s	$100	$80


Satin-finish alloy fuel-filler door
i, s	$100	$80


Mud guards
i, s	$35	$28
NA w/Sport Pkg.

Wheel locks
i, s	$30	$24


Alloy wheels
i	$400	$320

2003 Mazda 6 Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Mazda 6 4-door sedan

Wheelbase, in.	105.3

Overall Length, in.	186.8

Overall Width, in.	70.1

Overall Height, in.	56.7

Curb Weight, lbs.	3042

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	15.2

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	18.0

Seating Capacity	5

Front Head Room, in.	38.7

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	42.3

Rear Head Room, in.	37.1

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	36.5

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	dohc I4	dohc V6

Size, liters/cu. in.	2.3 /138	3.0 /181

Horsepower @ rpm.	160 @ 6000	220 @ 6300

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	155 @ 4000	192 @ 5000

Availability	Standard	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

5-speed manual	25/32	20/27

4-speed automatic	23/29	--/--

5-speed automatic	--/--	19/27

Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Safety Features

Antilock Brakes

Traction Control

Antiskid System

Front Side Airbags

Curtain Side Airbags

Rear Side Airbags

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	Mazda 6 4-door sedan

Front Impact, Driver	5

Front Impact, Passenger	5

Rollover Resistance	5

Side Impact, Driver	3

Side Impact, Rear Passenger	4

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Manufacturer's Warranty

Class	Years/Miles	Comments

Powertrain	None/--	--

Bumper-to-bumper	4/50,000	--

Corrosion	5/unlimited	--

Free roadside assistance	4/50,000	--

Free scheduled maintenance	None/--	--

Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.

Built in: USA

Drivewheels: front-wheel drive

< 2003 Mazda 6 Photos

Also in the 2003 Mazda 6 Review:

Mazda 6

Mazda 6 Road Test

Mazda 6 Prices & Equipment

Mazda 6 Specs & Safety

Mazda 6 Photos

Mazda 6 Full Review

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