2008 Mazda MAZDA6 [ 2009 , 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 56 MAZDA6 reviews and test drives.
Mazda MAZDA6 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mazda MAZDA6 ranks 12 out of 23 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda MAZDA6, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Mazda6 has sporty handling dynamics and a sleek, stylish exterior, but lacks the off-the-line pickup or interior spaciousness of the top cars of its class.
The 2008 Mazda6 earns its distinction in the affordable midsize class as a sporty, stylish alternative to the somewhat conservative class-leading competition. Offering plenty of Mazda's trademark "zoom zoom," reviewers also praise the 6's attractive pricing as a key reason to choose this sedan over midsize models from Honda or Toyota. Motor Trend writes, "The Mazda6 delivers a lot of sporty car for the money, especially when compared with Japanese rivals that usually cost more when equally equipped." The strongest complaint against the 2008 Mazda6 is the emphasis on an engaging experience for the driver has resulted in little attention to the comfort of his or her passengers. The 6's strong engine power also leads to a moderate sacrifice of fuel efficiency.
If you're interested in purchasing a 6, Mazda provides several trims. The "i" series is available with Sport, Sport VE, Touring and Grand Touring trim, while the "s" series is offered with Sport VE, Touring and Grand Touring trims. Also note the redesigned 2009 Mazda6 is now available.
- "The mid-size, mid-prize Mazda 6 plays in a tough league and plays very well. One of the sportier choices in its segment, the 6 is an eager front-driver with a playful spirit, good looks, all-around competence, and two excellent engine choices, make it a Car and Driver fun-to-drive favorite." -- Car and Driver
- "The Mazda 6 is the sports sedan of the mainstream midsize cars. It boasts style, agility and performance. In short, it's more fun to drive than other cars in this class. It's a great choice for someone who wants a more exciting car." -- New Car Test Drive
- "Just sassy enough to cause trouble" -- U.S. News
- "Mazda has done a masterful job of blending acceleration, handling and sporty ride in a useful family sedan that looks good and is priced right." -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- "Above-average ride, handling and performance with decent mileage at a reasonable price." -- Chicago Tribune
MAZDA6 Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
The Mazda6 is particularly sporty for a midsize sedan. New Car Test Drive says, "The Mazda 6 looks leaner than its competitors and the driving experience backs that up with agile handling and responsive engines." Our full Performance Review gives a more in-depth view of the 6's performance, and how it stacks up the affordable midsize car class. continue
MAZDA6 Exterior - 8.7 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mazda6's high exterior score in a conservative segment is a reflection of its sporty underpinnings. Automobile Magazine says it "adopts the aggressive look of a hot-rodded import tuner car, helping distinguish it from the virtuous but staid competition." Check out the Mazda6 Photo Gallery to see the sporty 6 up close, or continue with our full Exterior Review for more reviewer comments on the sheetmetal. continue
MAZDA6 Interior - 7.0 (Good)
Several describe the 2008 Mazda6's cabin as driver-centric, so much so that rear-seat room is an afterthought. The 6's interior gets an acceptable score and places near the bottom of the affordable midsize class. The Mazda6 Photo Gallery shows images of the contested cabin, while our full Interior Review provides more information on dimensions and standard features. continue
MAZDA6 Safety - 8.8 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mazda6 is equipped with safety features commensurate to its class, and does very well in government and insurance industry crash tests. Continue with our full Safety Review for complete details on the 6's equipment and crash test ratings. continue
MAZDA6 Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Mazda MAZDA6 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mazda offers a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty for all its vehicles. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn more about Mazda's warranty. continue
