Name: 2003 Mazda 6
Brand: Mazda

Mazda 6

RECALL ALERT: There are 9 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 9 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

Worse Better

Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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2003 Midsized cars Ratings

2003 Mazda 6

$3,050 - $3,200

CR MPG:

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$2,925 - $3,000

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$2,900 - $3,075

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2003 Honda Accord

$3,475 - $4,650

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2003 Hyundai Sonata

$3,025

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2003 Jaguar X-Type

$3,075 - $3,575

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2003 Kia Optima

$2,900 - $2,925

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2003 Mitsubishi Galant

$2,850 - $2,900

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2003 Nissan Altima

$3,150 - $3,475

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2003 Pontiac Grand Prix

$3,100 - $3,850

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2003 Saab 9-5

$2,975 - $3,100

CR MPG:

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2003 Subaru Legacy

$3,025 - $4,100

CR MPG:

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2003 Toyota Camry

$4,525 - $5,025

CR MPG:

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2003 Volkswagen Passat

$2,975 - $4,350

CR MPG:

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See All Midsized cars Ratings

Seating

2 front, 3 rear

Drive Wheels

Front

Warranty

Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties

wagon

4-door hatchback

sedan

5-speed Manual
5-speed Automatic
4-speed Automatic

2.3-liter 4 (160 hp)
3-liter V6 (220 hp)

Model History

2014-

Current Generation

This edition of the Mazda6 arrived as a 2014 model on a new platform. We got an excellent 32 mpg overall from the smooth four-cylinder and six-speed automatic. Acceleration doesn't suffer for fuel economy, with the Mazda6 returning slightly above average performance. The car is also agile and capable in corners, with a taut but firm ride. However, the cabin is loud, particularly on the highway; updates for 2016 helped some. The well-finished cabin has supportive seats, although the rear seats are relatively tight for this class. The infotainment system uses a console-mounted knob; figuring out how to use the system takes some time. Among the optional active safety features are blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Mazda6 underwent a major refresh with the 2018 model, improving ride comfort and noise isolation. An uplevel turbo engine for top versions is new. 2021 is the final year for the current generation of the 6.

2009-2013

2009 Redesign Year

An improved version of the Mazda6 debuted for 2009, proving to be among the sportiest of family sedans. In addition to being fun to drive, it is roomy, quiet, and quick. It also has a high-quality interior -- though road noise is a bit pronounced and we noted a few misaligned trim pieces. Similarly, while the rear seat is roomier than the one in the previous version of the car, the Mazda's stylishly low roofline inhibits access compared to its forebear.

2003-2008

2003 Redesign Year

The Mazda6 debuted in 2003 with a firm, yet compliant ride. The car also boasts excellent handling, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior. The trunk is sized nicely and the split rear seatbacks are spring-loaded, so they fold down with the pull of a lever. Nicely detailed, the interior is also readily accessible. However, the four-cylinder engine doesn't feel refined and while the V6 is quick, it's also thirsty. Tight maneuvering is somewhat hampered by a 41-foot turning circle. Wagon and hatchback versions became available in 2004. The car scored Poor in the IIHS side-crash test without the optional side airbags, but these became standard equipment for 2007.

Mazda 6

2003 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Mazda vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Mazda vs. Other New Car Brands

Mazda vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2003 Midsized cars Ratings