Best Mazda6 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

The Mazda6 was Mazda's mid-size sedan from 2003 through 2021 in the US market. Across three generations, it consistently offered more engaging driving dynamics than most competitors in its class. The third generation (2014-2021) brought the SkyActiv technology and a near-luxury interior, especially with the turbocharged engine introduced in 2018. Now available only on the used market, the Mazda6 remains a strong value for buyers who prioritize driving feel and interior quality in a mid-size sedan.

1. 2018-2021 Mazda6 Signature Turbo 🏆 BEST OVERALL

The final third-generation Signature Turbo models represent the pinnacle of the Mazda6. The 2.5-liter turbocharged SkyActiv-G engine produces 250 horsepower on premium fuel (227 on regular) and 320 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm. The 2018 redesign brought a dramatically upgraded interior, and the Signature trim adds genuine Nappa leather, Sen-wood trim, and a 360-degree camera. The chassis remains composed and engaging. Expect $20,000-$28,000 for a clean example. This is the Mazda6 to buy if your budget allows.

2. 2016-2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring 💎 BEST VALUE

The mid-cycle third-generation cars are the value play, and the Grand Touring trim is the sweet spot. These use the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G making 184-187 horsepower, with fuel economy up to 38 highway mpg. The 2016 refresh added G-Vectoring Control, improved sound deadening, and upgraded interior materials. The Grand Touring adds leather, navigation, and a head-up display. Clean examples run $13,000-$19,000. This combination of low cost, high reliability, and genuine class makes it the clear best value in the range.

3. 2014-2015 Mazda6 (Third-generation launch)

The launch cars of the third generation reset the Mazda6 as a stylish, efficient, fun-to-drive sedan. The 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G makes 184 horsepower and delivers up to 40 highway mpg. A six-speed manual was available—a rarity in the class. The Kodo styling still looks fresh, the chassis is wonderfully balanced, and reliability is strong. Used prices sit around $10,000-$15,000. They rank just below the 2016-2017 value champions because they lack G-Vectoring Control and a few interior upgrades, but mechanically they are nearly identical.

4. 2018-2019 Mazda6 Grand Touring (Naturally aspirated, refreshed)

The refreshed naturally aspirated cars from the 2018 redesign pair the upgraded interior and styling with the dependable 187-horsepower 2.5-liter engine. They deliver most of the Signature's premium feel without the turbo's cost, maintaining strong fuel economy. Values run $16,000-$22,000. They rank here because they cost more than the 2016-2017 value champions while offering a similar naturally aspirated experience. Still, for a buyer who wants the newest, most refined non-turbo Mazda6 with the redesigned cabin, this is a polished choice.

5. 2018 Mazda6 (Redesign first year)

The 2018 redesign debuted the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine in the Mazda6 and the dramatically upgraded interior. A 2018 Touring or Grand Touring Turbo offers the 227-250 horsepower engine and refreshed cabin at a slightly lower price than later Signature cars. Used prices run $17,000-$23,000. It ranks here because first-year-of-an-update cars carry a small risk of early quirks, and the loaded Signature delivers more luxury for not much more. For buyers who want the turbo engine and redesigned interior at the lowest entry point, the 2018 turbo cars are compelling.

6. 2009-2013 Mazda6 (Second generation)

The second generation grew the Mazda6 to true mid-size proportions and offered a 2.5-liter four (170 horsepower) and a 3.7-liter V6 (272 horsepower). It retained engaging handling, with the V6 cars genuinely quick. Fuel economy on the four-cylinder reaches around 30 highway mpg. Clean cars trade for $5,000-$10,000. They rank here because the interior and refinement lag the third generation and the V6 is thirsty, but they remain spacious, reliable, and fun.

7. 2016-2017 Mazda6 Touring (Naturally aspirated, mid-trim)

The mid-trim Touring versions keep the excellent naturally aspirated 2.5-liter (184-187 hp) engine, G-Vectoring chassis, and upgraded cabin, but trim some luxury features compared with the Grand Touring. Values run $12,000-$17,000. They rank here because for a small premium the Grand Touring adds leather, navigation, and a head-up display that meaningfully improve the car. For buyers who want the third generation's driving feel at the lowest possible price with the refreshed updates, a clean Touring is a smart buy.

8. 2003-2008 Mazda6 (First generation)

The original first generation set the segment's handling benchmark, offering a 2.3-liter four (156-160 hp) and a 3.0-liter V6 (220 hp), with sedan, hatchback, and wagon body styles. The chassis is tossable and the V6 cars are genuinely fun. Values are very low at $3,000-$7,000. They rank near the bottom because of age, dated equipment, and significant rust risk in salt-belt regions. For an enthusiast who wants the cheapest fun mid-size car, or specifically the rare hatch or wagon, a clean first-gen car is a bargain.

9. 2009-2013 Mazda6 V6 (Second-generation, power pick)

The 3.7-liter V6 second-generation cars deserve a dedicated slot for buyers who want maximum power at a low price. The V6 makes 272 horsepower and 269 lb-ft, giving strong acceleration in a comfortable, roomy sedan. Values run $6,000-$11,000. It ranks here because the V6's fuel thirst (around 24 highway mpg) and the older platform's refinement are clear downsides versus the third-gen turbo. The main caution is to verify regular transmission and cooling-system service.

10. 2014-2015 Mazda6 i Sport (Third-generation, base)

The base i Sport trim of the launch third generation is the most affordable way into the celebrated platform. With the 184-horsepower 2.5-liter engine, available six-speed manual, and class-leading fuel economy, it is a no-frills but genuinely rewarding sedan. Values bottom out at $9,000-$13,000. It ranks last because the base trim has cloth seats and simpler infotainment, and a Touring or Grand Touring adds meaningful features for a modest premium. For a buyer who wants the third generation's superb chassis at the lowest possible price, especially with the rare manual, a clean i Sport is a great value.

What to Watch For When Buying

On third-generation Turbo cars, confirm disciplined full-synthetic oil-change history and listen for any rough idle or hesitation. Across all SkyActiv cars, check for the known infotainment lag or freezing and verify software updates. First- and second-generation cars are notably prone to rust in salt-belt regions—inspect the rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframe, and floor pans carefully. On second-generation V6 cars, scrutinize the transmission and cooling system, including the water pump. Across all years, check for uneven tire wear signaling alignment or suspension issues, confirm the manual transmission shifts cleanly without grinding, and verify smooth automatic shifts.

How to Choose

Decide first how much power and luxury you want. If you want the most refined, powerful Mazda6 with genuine near-luxury materials, the 2018-2021 Signature Turbo is the clear pick. If you want the same beautiful chassis and interior with a dependable naturally aspirated engine for thousands less, the 2016-2017 Grand Touring is the value sweet spot. Those who want the redesigned cabin without the turbo cost should look at a 2018-2019 naturally aspirated Grand Touring, while buyers on a strict budget who still want a fun sedan should consider a 2014-2015 third-gen car, ideally with the rare manual. In every case, buy rust-free and insist on documented maintenance.

FAQ

What is the most reliable Mazda6 model year? The 2016-2017 models with the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine are widely considered the most reliable. They avoid the added complexity of the turbo system and have a strong track record for longevity, with many owners reporting trouble-free miles past 150,000.

Is the turbocharged Mazda6 worth the extra cost? Yes, if you value performance and a more premium feel. The 2018-2021 Signature Turbo models offer up to 250 horsepower and a much richer interior, but expect to pay roughly $18,000 to $25,000 for a clean used example—about $5,000 more than a comparable naturally aspirated version.

Which Mazda6 year should I avoid? Early first-generation models from 2003-2005 can suffer from rust issues in colder climates and have less refined transmissions. Also, the 2014-2015 models had some early SkyActiv teething problems, like occasional infotainment glitches, though they are still generally reliable.

How does the Mazda6 compare to the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry? The Mazda6 offers a more engaging driving experience with sharper handling and a nicer interior, but it has less rear-seat space and a smaller trunk. It's ideal for drivers who prioritize feel over maximum practicality, while the Accord and Camry are better for families needing more room.

What is the fuel economy on the best Mazda6 models? The 2016-2017 naturally aspirated 2.5-liter achieves around 26-28 mpg city and 35-38 mpg highway in real-world driving. The turbocharged 2018-2021 models drop slightly to 23-25 mpg city and 31-34 mpg highway, depending on driving style and fuel grade.

Can I still find a low-mileage Mazda6 in 2025? Yes, but it's becoming harder. Clean, low-mileage examples (under 60,000 miles) of the 2018-2021 models are available but command a premium, often $20,000 or more. The 2016-2017 models with similar mileage are more common and typically range from $14,000 to $18,000.

Bottom Line

The Mazda6 is the driver's choice among used mid-size sedans. The 2018-2021 Signature Turbo is the best overall, combining 250 horsepower, 320 lb-ft of torque, and genuine Nappa-leather luxury. The 2016-2017 Grand Touring is the best value, delivering the same superb chassis and upscale interior with a dependable naturally aspirated engine for thousands less. Budget buyers can drop to a clean second-generation four-cylinder for economy or hunt the rare manual third-gen car for engagement. Whatever year you target, buy rust-free and insist on documented maintenance.

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Sources

• Mazda6 — Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mazda6
• Mazda USA official Mazda6 information: https://www.mazdausa.com/vehicles/mazda6
• Car and Driver Mazda6 reviews and specs: https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/mazda-6
• Edmunds Mazda6 used pricing and reviews: https://www.edmunds.com/mazda/mazda6/
• Kelley Blue Book Mazda6 used values: https://www.kbb.com/mazda/mazda6/
• Consumer Reports Mazda6 reliability: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/6/
• MotorTrend Mazda6 buyer's guide: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/mazda/mazda6/