2003-2008 Mazda 6: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Replacing the 626 sedan, the new front-drive Mazda 6 (actually badged "Mazda6") was a slightly wider, taller, and heavier sedan with fresh styling and more power. The base "i" model used a new 160-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. The uplevel "s" sedan held a 220-horsepower, 3.0-liter V6, versus the 165-hp 2.5-liter V6 in the departed 626. Both engines teamed with a manual or automatic transmission. The automatic was a four-speed unit on four-cylinder models, but a five-speed with V6s; both had a separate gate for manual shifting. All models had four-wheel disc brakes. ABS with integrated traction control was standard on V6 models, and optional for four-cylinder sedans. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags were available for all models. So was a Sport Package that included 17-inch alloy wheels instead of steel or 16-inch alloys, plus a rear spoiler and other aero body add-ons. Standard equipment included a single-disc CD player, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and a split-folding rear seatback. V6s added automatic climate control. Options included a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, in-dash CD changer, and Bose audio. V6s came with a power driver's seat. The Mazda 6 competed against both compact and midsize cars, in power as well as marketing focus. Rivals included the Ford Taurus, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Toyota Camry; and later, the redesigned Chevrolet Malibu.