Used Mazda 6 review: 2002-2007

AS NEW

The turnaround in Mazda's fortunes in recent times has been staggering, and it all began with the Mazda 6 in 2002. Prior to that, Mazda was looking for all the world like a company about to close up shop, at least here in Australia, but in one of the most remarkable recoveries in the automotive world it has stormed back and has even lead the market at times.

The Mazda6 is just one of the new range of models that has delivered the amazing result, but it was the first. It was an all-new mid-sized model that came with a choice of sedan, wagon and hatchback body styles, there was a range of models offering everything from basic to prestige levels of equipment, and from 2006 there was the added attraction of a diesel engine.

Most motoring writers of the time of the launch agreed that the Mazda6 ticked all the boxes. It was attractive, roomy for its size, comfortable and refined, with good road manners, sporty handling and peppy performance.

At first that urge came a 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, the only one offered in the range, which revved nicely and had good power and torque across the speed range.

A sports-shift four-speed auto or an optional five-speed manual could be specified to back it up, and the final drive was distributed through the front wheels.

In response to the growing demand for diesel engines Mazda added a compression-ignition four-cylinder to its engine offering in 2006, but limited its appeal somewhat by not offering it with an automatic transmission. To get the benefit of the lower cost of running a diesel you had to accept a six-speed manual gearbox and shift gears yourself.

The range kicked off with the Limited, and climbed through the Classic to the Luxury and Luxury Sports. Each was well equipped. The base model limited had air-conditioning, CD sound, power mirrors and windows, immobilizer and remote central locking.

The mid-ranger Classic added cruise, alloy wheels, fog lamps, CD changer and four speakers. Perched atop the range, the Luxury further added larger alloys, leather trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power driver's seat and more speakers.

NOW

A good level of build quality gave the Mazda6 a sold feel from new, which is carrying on into later life in the hands of used car buyers. Rarely do owners complain of squeaks, creaks, rattles, or other annoying distractions. The only complaint that occasionally surfaces is road noise and there's little that can be done to silence that.

Mechanically it is sound, the engine is robust and gives little trouble if well maintained. Check for a service record to confirm your potential purchase has seen the inside of a service workshop since it left the showroom as a new car. Likewise the transmissions are sturdy and cause little concern over the long term.

Reports of clunking noises in the steering have been attributed to a lack of lubrication of a steering joint, a noise from the from the front suspension when riding over humps is put down to bushes in the suspension, and an unstable idle is generally thought to be because of a dirty throttle body in need of a clean-out.

While diesel buyers are looking to save on their running costs they rarely look at the long term and what they might have to outlay in extra servicing. Diesels usually cost more to service, components like the injectors need servicing, and it all adds up over the long run. The Mazda diesel engine has a timing chain, so there's no need to service that on a regular basis, which makes life a little easier.

SMITHY SAYS

Solid performer that's worth having on your mid-sized shopping list.

MAZDA6 - 2002-2007

Price new: $30,350 to $43,250
Engine: 2.3-litre 4-cylinder petrol, 122 kW/207 Nm; 2.0-litre 4-  cylinder turbo-diesel, 105 kW/360 Nm
Transmission: 4-speed auto, 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, FWD
Economy: 8.9 L/100 km (2.3), 5.9 L/100 km (TD)
Body: 4-door sedan, 4-door wagon, 5-door hatch
Variants: Classic, Limited, Luxury, and Luxury Sports
Safety: 4-star ANCAP

COMING UP

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