2021 Mazda 6

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Rating7.4

Ranked #8 in 

Midsize Sedan
Write Review
$24,475 - $35,900
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on July 19, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Proper family hauler with a tranquil cabin

Exorbitantly priced optional features

New Carbon Edition Package

Refined driving demeanor

Not the most keen on acceleration

Return of the turbocharged engine

Par-excellence styling

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

Last model year before the sedan is discontinued

Specs & Features

$24,475

price

187 hp @ 6000 rpm

horsepower

186 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

torque

6-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

2.5L 4cyl FWD 6A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Unlike the conservative lines of the Accord and Camry, the Mazda 6 presents a more stylish, edgy and youthful alternative to midsize sedan buyers. However, its competitive attributes were never restricted only to its exteriors. The Mazda 6 also has one of the most premium interiors in its class. Above all, its peppy and refined powertrain along with sleek dynamics, it is the go to midsize sedan for driving enthusiasts. On the hunt for a significant time now, the Mazda 6 was last heavily reworked in 2014 for its third generation. 

Buying Advice

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Comparative Analysis against Competition

However, it got its [resent shape in 2018 with an update styling and interior arrangements. With the 2020 model in the stores right now, the Mazda 6 will probably enter its 2021 model year somewhere later down this year. However, owing to the recent updates couple of tears back, changes on the 2021 Mazda 6 are very unlikely though. There is a thoroughly revised version being developed but that's not going to make its debut anywhere before the second half of 2022. On that note let's take a quick look at what the 2021 Mazda 6 could look like.

Features
7.0/10

With no major reshuffling, the Mazda 6 would probably continue with its present trim structure that consists of five levels. Even in 2021, you would still get to choose from a lot of Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature. However, it does add an all-new Carbon Edition Appearance Package into the lineup. It also benefits from minor revisions to the feature list and the introduction of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto helps strengthen its case. The Mazda 6 is expected to start at $25,000.

Trim

Sport

Touring

Grand Touring

Grand Touring Reserve

Carbon Edition

Signature

MSRP

$25,000

$28,070

$31,170

$33,670

$33,945

$36,845

Key Features

Leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted controls

Adds to or retains features of Sport

Adds to or retains features of Touring

Adds to or retains features of Grand Touring

Adds to or retains features of Grand Touring Reserve

Adds to or retains features of Signature

 

Cruise Control

Sunroof

Heated Mirrors

Heads-up Display

Polymetal Grey Exterior

Rear Parking Aid

 

Rearview Camera

Heated Front Seats

Premium Sound System

Fog Lamps

Gloss Black door handles

Navigation System

 

Remote Trunk Release

Powered Driver seat

Electrochromic Rearview Mirror

Heated Steering Wheel

Red leather seats with contrast stitching

MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system

 

Lane Keeping Assist

Driver Illuminated Vanity Mirror

Satellite Radio

Cooled Driver Seat

19-inch metallic wheels

Smart City Brake Support Reserve

 

Cloth Upholstery

Rear aircon vents

Paddle Shifters

Adaptive Front Lighting

Rear lid spoiler

Nappa Leather Upholstery

We Recommend

Amongst an all-encompassing range of trim options, the mid-level Grand Touring trim provides the best bang for the buck. It comes equipped with the basic features available on the lower trims, but also adds to the mix paddle shifters, a premium sound system, and heated mirrors.

Fuel Economy
5.0/10

It might very well cater to all the associated aspects of the midsize sedan segment, the Mazda 6 falls behind its rivals in terms of fuel efficiency. This is probably because of the fact that the Mazda 6 has been using its 6-speed auto since quite a long time now. The transmission does work fine still, but lacks the efficiency and refinement of its rivals. No surprise, the 2020 Mazda 6 delivers 26 mpg in the city, 35 on highway and 29 combined. As discussed earlier, the flagship Mazda sedan stands last in the table among its rivals. 

Models

2021 Mazda 6

2020 Toyota Camry

2020 Honda Accord

2020 Nissan Altima

MPG (city)

26

29

30

28

MPG (highway)

35

41

38

39

MPG (combined)

29

34

33

32

Fuel tank capacity (gallons)

16.4

14.5

14.8

16.2

Range (city/highway in miles)

426.4/574.0

420.5/594.5

444.0/562.4

453.6/631.8

However, the 2021 Mazda 6 might feature an updated transmission for and enhanced efficiency and better competitiveness among its segment. It's been a long time since Mazda hasn’t updated the transmission. Among its rivals on the other hand, all the other three cars do offer somewhat similar mpg figures. However, even with close proximation, there's no catching up the Camry’s brilliant 34 mpg combined

Interior
6.0/10

The 2020 Mazda 6 sedan already has the best interiors in its class that we have always loved. With a redesign lined up soon, updating the 2021 Mazda 6’s cabin doesn’t make any sense. We should get the same familiar interior layout on the 2021 Mazda 6 which doesn’t seem like a grouse at all.

The cleanly laid out cabin with plentiful soft-touch materials everywhere along with a stitching effect is a very happy place to be seated in. The wide and comfortable seats and the metallic accents on the dash and the door panels add to the luxury vibe. Above all, it’s the way how the cabin has been laid out that speaks for itself.

Models

2021 Mazda 6

2020 Toyota Camry

2020 Honda Accord

2020 Nissan Altima

Passenger Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in.)

37.4/55.9/42.2

38.3/57.7/42.1

37.5/58.3/42.3

38.0/58.2/43.8

Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in.)

37.1/55.1/38.7

38.0/55.7/38.0

37.2/56.5/40.4

36.7/57.1/35.2

While it might not be the most spacious in its class but it does offer better legroom at both the benches than the Toyota Camry. Sadly though, its front seat headroom is the least in its class while that at the rear is only better than the Altima. However, it doesn’t feel as cramped as the numbers suggest. Above all, its butter smooth ride quality pays off for those unimpressive numbers very very well.

Infotainment and Connectivity

As with the rest of the car, the 2021 Mazda 6 sedan should carry the same infotainment system as on the 2020 model. However, we might see an updated user-interface in what could be the final model year of the third-gen sedan. Ther refreshed interface should bring new icons and skins making it more intuitive to use. Though the 2020 Mazda 6 comes aptly loaded with features, we can expect one or two minor additions for 2021. 

Rich in its package, the 2020 Mazda 6 comes loaded with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and an 8.0-inch infotainment system that is controlled by a rotary dial on the center-console. Satellite Radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity are always some noteworthy mentions. The Mazda 6 also has an 11-speaker audio system on board to amuse audiophiles.

Exterior
8.0/10

They say patience is a very important aspect of success in life and we quite agree to that phrase. While a completely refreshed Mazda 6 is slated for 2022, the 2020 Mazda 6 would remain unchanged on the outside which isn't a bad thing.

The current third-generation of the Mazda 6 might be six years old now, but its 2018 refresh poured the right amount of contemporary styling into it. While it might just lack the classic traits of a Camry or Accord, it seems to have a league of its own. A large chrome grille at the front, subtle stance and body lines, a mature and undramatic window-line along with slim and simplistic headlights and tail lamps give it a modern and humble presence that does make heads turn. Among the competition here, the Mazda 6 is surely the edgiest.

Model

2021 Mazda 6

2020 Toyota Camry

2020 Honda Accord

2020 Nissan Altima

Curb Weight (lbs.)

3437

3340

3199

3265

Length (in.)

192.7 

192.7 

192.2

192.9

Width (in.)

72.4

72.4

73.3

72.9

Height (in.)

57.1

56.9

57.1

56.8

Ground Clearance (in.)

6.5

5.7

N/A

N/A

Wheelbase (in.)

111.4

111.2

111.4

111.2

Its rivals on the other hand lay emphasis upon their hereditary traits without trying to be outright stylish. Both the Camry and the Accord as well as the Nissan Altima, do have a strong and traditional kind of road presence but the Mazda brings in some fresh elegance. While we will be getting a redesigned Mazda 6 for 2022, the present 2020 Mazda 6 is already one of the cleanest and better looking things in its class. Thankfully, what could probably be its last model year, the 2021 Mazda 6 shall continue to ooze us with a similar form and design. 

Safety
9.0/10

When it comes to driver safety and assistance features, the Mazda 6 again turns out to be one of the best in the segment. Not only does the 2020 Mazda 6 get a full suite of active safety features but it also enjoys top grades from safety authorities. The 2020 Mazda 6 is recognized by IIHS as a Top Safety Pick+ and it also received a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. No doubt the Mazda 6 is one of the safest cars in its segment and it will continue to be so even in 2020. Some of its highlighted safety features are listed below:

  • LED DRLs
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Adaptive LED headlights with Auto On/Off
  • Electronic Parking Brake
  • Hill Launch Assist
  • 6-Dual stage airbags
  • 360-degree view monitor
  • Front and Rear Parking Sensors
  • Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go

Final Verdict
8.0/10

The Mazda 6 is a great midsize sedan for today’s contemporary buyers. It looks very modern and clean, is very comfortable on the move, has the best interior in its class and also has a widely reclaimed safety concern. While the all-new Mazda 6 is slated to be launched somewhere in 2022 with a new 4th-generation, the current 2020 Mazda sedan’s overall appeal and composition still stand out in its fleet, unless you have a taste of age-old delicacy and class. Above all, the flagship Mazda sedan is also the most fun and engaging to drive among its segment.

Trims

    Sport
    $24,475 onwards
    • 2 - 1st row LCD monitor
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Driver Lumbar support
    • Rain Sensing Windshield wipers
    • Remote keyless entry
    Touring
    $27,075 onwards
    • 19-inch gray aluminum Wheels
    • Heated Front Seats
    • Sliding and tilting glass Sunroof
    Grand Touring
    $30,175 onwards
    • Heated mirrors
    • Siriusxm AM/FM/HD/Satellite, seek-scan Radio
    Grand Touring Reserve
    $32,675 onwards
    • Front Fog/driving lights
    • Leather Seat trim
    Carbon Edition
    $32,950 onwards
    • 19-inch black aluminum Wheels
    Signature
    $35,900 onwards
    • Nappa leather Seat trim
    • Navigation system
    • Parking assist

Compare to similar cars

Price

$24,475- $35,900

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.43

Horsepower

227 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque

310 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$37,500- $53,100

Gasoline

7.56

272 hp @ 6500 rpm

280 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$23,170- $36,450

Gasoline

8.12

-

-

5

Read Review

$25,045- $35,620

Gasoline

7.38

208 hp @ 5700 rpm

163 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm

5

Read Review

$24,550- $34,250

Gasoline

6.88

188 hp @ 6000 rpm

180 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm

5

Read Review

$24,770- $36,700

Gasoline

8.14

192 hp @ 5500 rpm

192 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$37,090- $42,320

Gasoline

6.83

300 hp @ 6400 rpm

261 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm

5

Read Review

$23,950- $33,950

Gasoline

7.79

191 hp @ 6100 rpm

181 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

$33,090- $52,590

Gasoline

7.72

255 hp @ 6200 rpm

260 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm

5

Read Review

$23,995- $29,995

Gasoline

6.24

174 hp @ 5000 rpm

206 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm

5

Read Review

2021 Mazda 6 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    2021 Mazda 6

    Ranked #8

    8.1 sec16.3 sec-
    5.6 sec-155 mph
    6 sec14.4 sec155 mph
    6.3 sec14.7 sec-
    2021 Kia K5

    Ranked #4

    7 sec15.5 sec128 mph
    7 sec--

    2021 Mazda 6 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      2021 Mazda 6

      Ranked #4

      26 mpg35 mpg29 mpg16.4 gal.426.4/574 mi.
      30 mpg38 mpg33 mpg14.8 gal.444/562.4 mi.
      28 mpg39 mpg32 mpg16.2 gal.453.6/631.8 mi.
      29 mpg36 mpg32 mpg15.8 gal.458.2/568.8 mi.
      27 mpg38 mpg32 mpg14.8 gal.414.4/562.4 mi.
      2021 Kia K5

      Ranked #2

      27 mpg38 mpg32 mpg14.8 gal.429.2/562.4 mi.

      2021 Mazda 6 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        2021 Mazda 6

        Ranked #8

        192.7 in.72.4 in.57.1 in.6.5 in.111.4 in.
        196.1 in.73.3 in.57.1 in.6.7 in.111.4 in.
        194.6 in.75.2 in.56.4 in.5.3 in.113 in.
        194.2 in.73 in.57.9 in.6.5 in.111.4 in.
        193.6 in.72.2 in.58 in.5.4 in.110.4 in.
        2021 Kia K5

        Ranked #5

        193.1 in.73.2 in.56.9 in.5.3 in.112.2 in.

        2021 Mazda 6 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          2021 Mazda 6

          Ranked #1

          14.7 cu.ft.99.8 cu.ft.148.9 cu.ft.
          16.7 cu.ft.105.6 cu.ft.134.3 cu.ft.
          14.3 cu.ft.96.4 cu.ft.127.5 cu.ft.
          15.4 cu.ft.100.8 cu.ft.15.4 cu.ft.
          23.3 cu.ft.93.8 cu.ft.40.9 cu.ft.
          15.7 cu.ft.102.9 cu.ft.39 cu.ft.

          2021 Mazda 6 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            2021 Mazda 6

            Ranked #1

            148.9 cu.ft.14.7 cu.ft.148.9 cu.ft.-
            14.5 cu.ft.16 cu.ft.14.5 cu.ft.-
            2021 Kia K5

            Ranked #3

            28.6 cu.ft.16 cu.ft.28.6 cu.ft.-
            127.5 cu.ft.14.3 cu.ft.127.5 cu.ft.-
            39 cu.ft.15.7 cu.ft.39 cu.ft.-
            134.3 cu.ft.16.7 cu.ft.134.3 cu.ft.-

            2021 Mazda 6 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              2021 Mazda 6

              Ranked #2

              -1036 lbs.3437 lbs.
              1000 lbs.948 lbs.3314 lbs.
              2021 Kia K5

              Ranked #2

              -1239 lbs.3115 lbs.
              -1073 lbs.3612 lbs.
              -1121 lbs.3208 lbs.
              -1234 lbs.3120 lbs.

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              2021 Mazda 6 User Reviews

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              POPULAR TAGS

              Jg

              Jamie gish

              2020 Mazda 6

              Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

              Not Rated

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: June 21, 2024

              Best value for the money

              Pros - ["Stylish Interire and exterior", "Value for the money"]

              Cons - ["Vents Don't go where I want them to", "Speakers aren't loud enough"]

              My Mazda 6 is the best car I've ever owned. I've had luxury sedans in th past but the Mazda has surpassed the quality. I wanted to find a car that had a sexy, curvy exterior with leather seats and a sunroof. Sounds easy right ? No. I test drove many cars, but none has all the options I was looking for within my style and payment amount. I love everything j g about my car. So much that I bought ou...

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