• 2013 Mazda Mazda6

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Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Mazda Mazda6 U.S. News Best Cars 8.2
Critics' Rating:	8.6
Performance:	8.4
Interior:	8.4
Safety:	7.7
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Notable for 2013

• s Touring Plus trim discontinued 

Pros & Cons

• Spacious cabin and trunk
• Lively handling
• Strong V6 acceleration

• Subpar fuel economy
• Lower than average safety scores

Research Other Years

• 2014 Mazda Mazda6
• 2012 Mazda Mazda6
• 2011 Mazda Mazda6
• 2010 Mazda Mazda6
• 2009 Mazda Mazda6
• 2008 Mazda Mazda6
• 2007 Mazda Mazda6

The 2013 Mazda Mazda6 ranks 10 out of 20 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda Mazda6, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Test drivers like the Mazda6’s spacious interior and lively handling, but its redesigned competitors offer better fuel economy, more standard features and higher safety scores. 

The 2013 Mazda6 is one of few affordable midsize cars that still offer a manual transmission, and reviewers say it has precise shifts. The manual is found only on the base four-cylinder Mazda6. A five-speed automatic with manual mode is available on four-cylinder models. The top-of-the-line s Grand Touring trim has a V6 and six-speed automatic with manual mode. Four-cylinder models with either transmission average 21/30 mpg city/highway, while V6 models earn 18/27 mpg. Both fuel economy ratings are low for the class. Auto critics think the Mazda6’s athletic handling, accurate steering and strong brakes make it one of the most engaging midsize cars to drive. Like many midsize cars, they think the base engine is just fine, but the V6 is notably powerful.

The Mazda6 earns points with reviewers with its sporty styling, large cabin and trunk and upscale materials. They think the seats are comfortable and supportive and the trunk’s large opening makes loading cargo a breeze. The Mazda6 doesn’t have as many standard features as some of its rivals, only offering an auxiliary audio jack and CD player. USB iPod connectivity isn’t available at all, but the Mazda6 can be outfitted with features like Bluetooth, blind spot monitoring, a rearview camera, navigation and satellite radio. One test driver thinks the optional navigation system is slightly confusing, but overall, reviewers like the clean, simple control layout.

• "If exterior styling is a key consideration when purchasing your next family sedan, the 2013 Mazda6 should definitely strike a chord. A firm suspension, tight steering and powerful V6 backup the car's sporty attitude." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The 2013 Mazda 6 earns high marks for its sporty driving dynamics and spacious interior. But there are newer family sedans that might suit you better." -- Edmunds
• "Mazda's midsize front-wheel-drive sedan benefits from a sportier nature than some of its competitors." -- Cars.com (2011)
• "If you love driving and need a family sedan, take a look at the 6. Lively steering and good body control are its hallmarks." -- Car and Driver (2011)

Other Cars to Consider

Among midsize cars, the Nissan Altima is also known for its nimble handling and sporty performance. Thanks to a redesign for 2013, reviewers agree that the Altima’s class-leading fuel economy, smooth continuously variable transmission and powerful V6 make it a solid performer and good choice in its class. The Altima also comes with more standard features than the Mazda6, like Bluetooth and push-button start.

Although the redesigned base Ford Fusion’s fuel economy isn’t as good as the Nissan Altima’s, it trumps the Mazda6’s. Reviewers agree that the Fusion is one of the stronger performers in the class thanks to its athletic handling and turbocharged four-cylinder engines, which they say provide V6-like power and good fuel economy. The Fusion also has an edge over the Mazda6 with its optional all-wheel drive, which is not available on the Mazda6.

Compare the Mazda6, Altima and Fusion »  

Details: 2013 Mazda6

The 2013 Mazda6 is available in five trims, ranging from the base i Sport with a four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual to the s Grand Touring with a V6 and six-speed automatic. The Mazda6 was last redesigned for the 2009 model year and carries over into 2013 with no significant changes, so this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012, as well as 2013. A completely redesigned 2014 Mazda6 is scheduled to go on sale early in 2013.

See the full 2013 Mazda6 specs »