Mazda 6 (2008 – 2012) Review

Mazda 6 (2008 – 2012) At A Glance

Neatly styled, entry-level models a good balance of ride and handling, excellent 2.2-litre diesel engine.

Saloon version not popular, DPF problem with 2.0 diesels can lead to engine failure, No spare but full size spare available at £70.

Insurance Groups are between 16–28
On average it achieves 91% of the official MPG figure

This is a tale of two cars. On the one hand we have the entry level Mazda 6 1.8S, coming in at a very reasonable £15,100 on the road. On the other, we have the BOSE audio, leather-trimmed 2.5SL at a considerably heavier £20,680.

Actually "heavier" is the wrong word. Because all new bigger, better Mazda 6s weigh in at an average 35 kilos lighter than the old car. As with the new Mazda 2, the company has stopped eating all the pies and is thinking along the same lines as a supermodel.

As well as more car at less weight it's also more streamlined. Little touches, including a gizmo that looks like a horses hoof in front of each of the front wheels, cut drag down to a very impressive Cd 0.27.

That makes it quieter and more fuel-efficient which in turn means it emits less CO2 so you pay less tax, whether you're a private motorist or a company driver. One of the factoids Mazda was keen to impress on us was that whereas the previous 1.8i meant you were taxed on a BIK of 24% of the car's list price, the new 1.8 comes in at 19%. And, though prices are slightly up (balanced by a lot more kit on each model), they reckon the average company driver will pay £20 a month less for more car, whether they go for the 1.8i or the 2.0 litre diesel.

Mazda 6 2008 Model Road Test

Mazda 6 2008 Wagon Road Test

Mazda 6 2.2 Diesel 2008 Road Test and Video

Mazda 6 2010 Facelift Road Test and Video

Reviews for Mazda 6 (2008 – 2012)'s top 3 rivals

Honda Accord

Refined and rides smoothly. Well thought out interior. Ideal with 2.2 i-DTEC engine. Robust build quality.

Toyota Avensis

Hugely practical and robust, refined and quiet on the move, excellent diesel engines, especially the...

Ford Mondeo

Very good to drive. Refined and comfortable to travel in. Massively roomy cabin and huge boot. Reasonable...

Mazda 6 (2008 – 2012) handling and engines

Engines range from 1.8 to 2.5
Readers report Real MPG to be between 19–56 mpg

At the presentation, Mazda banged on about ‘Kizuna', which translates to "an emotional connection between car and driver achieved by a mix of quality and reliability and environment and safety." They reminded us that in the German 2006 J D Power satisfaction survey the old Mazda 6 came out best of all cars on sale there, including all German cars, and in the Autobild 100,000 kilometre test, involving a full strip-down at the end, the old Mazda 6 emerged completely fault-free.

Compared to the old Mazda 6, the new car has much reduced road noise, actually below the levels generated in the Vectra, Avensis and Passat. And, on the road, both of the cars were tried were very quiet.

The 2.5SL came on 18" alloys with 225/45 tyres, so naturally bump-thumped over sharp ridges and potholes, but the 215/50 R17s on the 1.8TS2 were fine and I guess the 205/60 R16s on the S and TS would be best of the lot.

The 1.8 has quite a useful powerband, giving maximum power of 120PS at 5,500rpm and maximum torque of 165Nm at 4,300rpm. That enabled it to pull out of uphill hairpin bends in 2nd cleanly, rather than having to resort to 1st and meant even tight corners could be flowed together rather than tackled in a series of lurches and jerks. Steering and handling, with the DSC off, were perfectly balanced for a car of this one's modest aspirations, I'd say better even than the new Mondeo, which is really saying something. Enthusiastic drivers will not be disappointed even by this most basic version. Nor will anyone seeking quietness, refinement and comfort. It's geared at 25mph per 1,000rom in 5th. And it does the job better than anything else in the same class for the money.

The 2.5SL is less successful because it sets its sights that much higher and finds itself up against opposition like the Audi A4 B6, BMW 318i, Honda Accord and SAAB 9-3. It obviously offers more power and more equipment for the money than the German opposition, and it's quiet at speed, comfortable and decent to drive. But it doesn't move the game ahead as far as the 1.8S does for £5,500 less money.

Though we could only drive a 1.8TS2 and a 2.5SL, there will be a sensible range of Mazda 6s. There' also a 2.0 litre petrol engine available with 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions, a 6-speed 140PS diesel (starting at a sensible £15,620). And a super looking estate.

TS2 trim upwards is fitted with steering wheel controls for the radio, air-conditioning, trip computer, cruise control, Bluetooth phone and satnav (if fitted) which, apparently, reduces driver ‘look away time' enabling his eyes to stay focused on the road.

One criticism that fed through from readers experience of the old car are the headlights. At least the Xenon lights on the 2.5SL, which, by EC law, have to be fitted with self-adjusting dipped beam-height electric motors. If you are driving on dipped bean a twisting undulating road, the motors just don't work fast enough and you can find yourself alternately blinding oncoming drivers then driving into the dark.UPDATE: 2.2-litre diesel

The latest incarnation of the Mazda 6 has always been an impressive car. Very handsome, and easily confused in the mind, with the Honda Accord. You have to look twice to be sure which is which.
And the Mazda 6 station wagon probably has the most graceful rear end of any station wagon anywhere in the World.

It steers and handles beautifully too. Easily on a par with the latest Mondeo at its best.

But the engine range wasn't as strong as the rest of the car. The 1.8 petrol engine is a very good 1.8, but the 2.0 litre doesn't compare as well with other 2.0 litres, the 2.5 emits too much to get on most people's shopping lists these days, and the 2.0 diesels, though strong, had been developing a bit of a reputation for turbo trouble in the old Mazda 6.

So Mazda got to work on a new alloy block, chain cam, balancer shaft diesel engine, like Toyota raising the capacity to 2.2 litres, and offering it in three different outputs of 125PS, 163PS and 185PS. Not only that, by virtue of some clever technology and a new type of particulate filter, CO2 levels are down and only the high power wagon comes in at over 150g/km CO2.

What's really special about the new particulate filter is that on the combined running cycle it only needs to regenerate half as many times, and the times spent regenerating are shortened by a third. That means less worry about the ‘depollution' light coming on and better fuel economy because the engine burns less fuel regenerating.

Volvo has its blind spot warning light and Mazda has come up with something similar, which it calls ‘Rear Vehicle Monitoring System'. This uses wide-angle 24Ghz microwave radar on both sides of the rear bumper to monitor the presence and speed of anything approaching in that area. If it spots something, it warns you with a flashing light, and if the Mazda driver signals to change lanes it also emits a warning beep. Unlike mirrors, it works even in heavy rain or thick fog. It's the sort of device that should be fitted to every LHD truck and van entering the UK, and every RHD truck and van entering mainland Europe.Though Mazda says you get maximum torque or 360Nm from 1,800rpm to 3,000rpm, you didn't on our 163. There was a noticeable catapult effect at about 2,300rpm when the turbo wound up. However, it was happy to trickle down to 1,000rpm and even pull uphill in high gears from low revs, so it did prove to be a reasonable flexible friend.

I've written about the handling before, which is excellent without resorting to different settings of ‘sport', ‘standard' and ‘comfort' like a high spec Mondeo. You can switch off the ESP if you want, but these days I generally don't want, at least on public roads, and the system is a sensible one that doesn't come into effect unless the car (and you) really need it. You can have your fun and neat it.

On the wagon, practical features abound, like the ‘Karakuri' rear seats that flop down at the flip of a latch on the boot side, so you don't have to mess around pulling knobs on the tops of the seats. The load area is long and flat. The load cover comes up with the hatchback lid. And, while there's plenty of space for your bags behind, the back seats offer bags of head and legroom.

Next day, we got out hands on a 185PS hatchback, and if you've got the extra cash this is definitely the one to go for. You get a lot more urge from lower revs whether you're using the gears or not, and there is very little sacrifice in economy. Only £30 a year more tax, and then only if you go for the 185PS wagon. The 185PS saloon and hatchback stay under 150g/km.

This really is a sports diesel, and possibly the best ‘D sector' front drive diesel you can buy. It grips tenaciously and the steering is sufficiently informative to tell you the instant it finally starts to lose adhesion so you can take appropriate action. If you don't, and have left the ESP on, then the system will do it for you.

And it manages all this with impressive seat and rid comfort, despite 215/50 R17 tyres (I don't recommend going up to 18"). Our test route managed to throw up a stretch of urban road that somehow contrived to be worse than anything in the most socialist of London boroughs.

Engine	MPG	0-62	CO₂
1.8	37–44 mpg	10.7–11.7 s	155–184 g/km
2.0	35–41 mpg	9.9–10.4 s	159–191 g/km
2.0 Automatic	37–37 mpg	11.2–11.3 s	176–178 g/km
2.0 D	46–50 mpg	9.5–10.9 s	147–167 g/km
2.2 D	50–54 mpg	8.3–10.9 s	133–152 g/km
2.2 D 163	51–52 mpg	9.2 s	140–147 g/km
2.3	33 mpg	9.0 s	207 g/km
2.3 DISI Turbo	28 mpg	6.6 s	245 g/km
2.5	34–35 mpg	8.0–8.4 s	186–193 g/km

Real MPG average for the Mazda 6 (2008 – 2012)

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

91%

Real MPG

19–56 mpg

MPGs submitted

895

Mazda 6 (2008 – 2012) interior

Boot space is 455–1751 litres
Euro NCAP rating of five stars

Dimensions
Length	4690–4785 mm
Width	1780–1795 mm
Height	1430–1490 mm
Wheelbase	2675–2725 mm
Full specifications

Take a look at the spec of the S model below and you'll see it has everything most drivers want, including the three A's (alloys and air and CD audio), not to mention height-adjustable drivers seat with adjustable lumbar support, height and reach adjustable steering, in fact so much adjustment it can accommodate anyone from 4' 11 to 6' 11. And, thankfully, Mazda's standard thumbwheel for the drivers seat and release lever for the passenger, which makes it much easier for the driver to minutely adjust his backrest on the move.

Every all-new Mazda 6 comes all the usual safety and security kit, including: Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control System, all-disc brakes with anti-lock, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Emergency Brake Assist, daytime running lights, driver and passenger front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners with load-limiters, active front seat head restraints, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, a Thatcham Category 1 anti-theft alarm and even a pre-settable overspeed warning buzzer.

Mazda 6 (2008 – 2012) models and specs

Dimensions
Length	4690–4785 mm
Width	1780–1795 mm
Height	1430–1490 mm
Wheelbase	2675–2725 mm

Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight	1370–1665 kg
Boot Space	455–1751 L
Warranty	3 years
Servicing	9000–12500 miles

Costs
List Price	£15,180–£24,335
Insurance Groups	16–28
Road Tax Bands	E–L
Official MPG	27.7–54.3 mpg

Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult	4
Child	4
Pedestrian	1
Overall	5

On sale until December 2012

Estate
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 TS 5dr	£20,110	40.4 mpg	10.4 s
2.0 TS2 5dr	£21,310	40.4 mpg	10.4 s
2.0 TS2 Automatic 5dr	£22,520	36.7 mpg	11.3 s
2.2 Sport Diesel 5dr	£24,335	52.3 mpg	8.7 s
2.2 TS Diesel 5dr	£21,285	52.3 mpg	9.2 s
2.2 TS2 Diesel 5dr	£22,485	52.3 mpg	9.2 s
2.5 Sport 5dr	£23,180	34.9 mpg	8.4 s

Hatchback
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
1.8 S 5dr	£17,810	43.5 mpg	11.7 s
1.8 TS 5dr	£18,860	43.5 mpg	11.7 s
2.0 Sport Automatic 5dr	£22,715	37.2 mpg	11.2 s
2.0 TS 5dr	£19,460	40.9 mpg	10.3 s
2.0 TS Automatic 5dr	£20,670	37.2 mpg	11.2 s
2.0 TS2 5dr	£20,660	40.9 mpg	10.3 s
2.2 Business Line Diesel 5dr	£18,305	54.3 mpg	10.9 s
2.2 Sport Diesel 5dr	£23,670	52.3 mpg	8.7 s
2.2 TS Diesel (163 ps) 5dr	£20,620	52.3 mpg	9.2 s
2.2 TS Diesel 5dr	£20,005	54.3 mpg	10.9 s
2.2 TS2 Diesel 5dr	£21,820	52.3 mpg	9.2 s
2.5 Sport 5dr	£22,530	35.3 mpg	8.4 s

On sale until October 2010

Hatchback
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.2 S Diesel 5dr	£18,065	54.3 mpg	9.9 s

On sale until January 2010

Estate
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 TS	£18,390	39.2 mpg	10.3 s
2.0 TS Auto	£18,390	-	-
2.0 TS2	£19,590	39.2 mpg	10.3 s
2.0 TS2 Auto	£19,590	-	-
2.2 Sport Diesel	£22,590	49.6 mpg	8.5 s
2.2 Sports Luxury Diesel	£23,640	49.6 mpg	8.5 s
2.2 TS Diesel	£19,490	50.4 mpg	9.2 s
2.2 TS2 Diesel	£20,690	50.4 mpg	9.2 s
2.5 Sport	£21,380	34.4 mpg	8.3 s

Hatchback
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
1.8 S 5dr	£16,115	40.9 mpg	11.6 s
1.8 TS 5dr	£17,115	40.9 mpg	11.6 s
2.0 TS 5dr	£17,640	39.8 mpg	10.2 s
2.0 TS 5dr Auto	£17,640	-	-
2.0 TS2 5dr	£18,840	39.8 mpg	10.2 s
2.0 TS2 5dr Auto	£18,840	-	-
2.2 S Diesel 5dr	£17,110	51.4 mpg	9.2 s
2.2 Sport Diesel 5dr	£21,840	50.4 mpg	8.5 s
2.2 TS Diesel (163 ps) 5dr	£18,740	51.4 mpg	9.2 s
2.2 TS Diesel 5dr	£18,110	51.4 mpg	9.2 s
2.2 TS2 Diesel 5dr	£19,940	51.4 mpg	9.2 s
2.5 Sport 5dr	£20,630	34.9 mpg	8.3 s

Saloon
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 TS 4dr	£17,640	40.4 mpg	9.9 s
2.0 TS2 4dr	£18,840	40.4 mpg	9.9 s
2.2 Sports Luxury Diesel 4dr	£22,890	50.4 mpg	8.3 s
2.2 TS2 Diesel 4dr	£19,940	51.4 mpg	8.9 s
2.5 Sports Luxury 4dr	£21,680	34.9 mpg	8.0 s

On sale until December 2008

Estate
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 Sport Diesel	£20,684	49.6 mpg	10.9 s
2.0 Sports Luxury Diesel	£21,663	49.6 mpg	10.9 s
2.0 TS Diesel	£17,748	49.6 mpg	10.9 s
2.0 TS2 Diesel	£18,922	49.6 mpg	10.9 s

Hatchback
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 S Diesel 5dr	£15,497	50.4 mpg	10.7 s
2.0 Sport Diesel 5dr	£19,999	50.4 mpg	10.7 s
2.0 TS Diesel 5dr	£17,063	50.4 mpg	10.7 s
2.0 TS2 Diesel 5dr	£18,237	50.4 mpg	10.7 s

Saloon
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 SL Diesel 4dr	£20,978	50.4 mpg	10.5 s
2.0 TS2 Diesel 4dr	£18,237	50.4 mpg	10.5 s

On sale until August 2007

Estate
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 S Diesel Estate	£16,270	46.3 mpg	10.9 s
2.0 S Estate	£15,680	35.3 mpg	9.9 s

Hatchback
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 TS Diesel 5dr	£16,770	47.1 mpg	9.5 s

Saloon
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
1.8 TS 4dr	£15,180	36.7 mpg	10.7 s
2.0 TS Diesel 4dr	£16,770	47.1 mpg	9.5 s
2.3 MZR DISI Turbo (4-WD)	£24,100	27.7 mpg	6.6 s

On sale until May 2007

Hatchback
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.3 Sport 5dr	£18,680	32.5 mpg	9.0 s

Model History

September 2007

'All new' Mazda 6 launched at Frankfurt Motor Show 11th September 2007. 3 body styles: sedan, hatchback and estate. 4,755mm long x 1,755mm wide (1,998mm with mirrors) x 1,440mm high making it 65 mm longer, 15 mm wider, 5 mm taller, with a 50 mm longer wheelbase than the ﬁrst-generation Mazda6. Shut lines greatly reduced and higher quality materials introduced for a greatly improved premium feel

Mazda’s Karakuri rear seat system (hatchback and estate): one-touch seat-drop function from a latch in the boot panel and an all-new boot tonneau cover for the estate that automatically moves up when the rear liftgate is opened.

Sporty performance feel enhanced by new six- point mounting system for the high-mount double wishbone front suspension and electric power assisted steering. Low coefﬁcient of drag (Cd) lowered to 0.27 (down from 0.30) for the sedan and hatchback, and to Cd 0.28 (down from 0.32) for the estate.

New 2.5-litre petrol engine (170 PS). Also available are 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines and the MZR-CD 2.0 turbodiesel (140 PS). 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engines‘ fuel efﬁciency and CO 2 levels improved by approximately 10 percent. Active safety: large disc brakes, ABS, DSC, electronic traction control and brake assist (standard in Europe)

Stopping distance from 100 km/h is 39 m on dry ground among the best in the class (Mazda in-house measurement). New safety equipment includes Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), parking sensor, an extensive ﬁeld of vision, Mazda’s ﬁrst active headrest, crushable brake and clutch pedals and extensive pedestrian protection measures

CF-Net (Cross Functional Network): combination of switches on the steering wheel which provide integrated control of navigation, audio, air conditioning, driving information, and other systems. Centralised display at the top of the instrument panel to minimise movement of the driver’s line of sight. Independent air temperature controls, and optional (standard depending on grade) advanced keyless entry system with engine start-stop button

BOSE® premium sound system with eight speakers and a Bluetooth® hands-free mobile-phone interface, are optional (standard depending on grade)

Six diesel models on sale from January 2008
Nine estate models on sale from March 2008

Significantly lower CO2 emissions translate into reduced Vehicle Excise Duty bills and fuel economy improvements. For example, the 2.0-litre 140ps turbo diesel with CO2 emissions cut from 165g/km (hatchback) to 149g/km – 23 percent down to 20 percent. Combined cycle fuel economy on the diesel is more than 50mpg.

The 1.8-litre 120ps has a CO2 figure of 162g/km (hatchback) compared with the 186g/km for the previous car – an amazing four-band reduction in company car tax from 24 percent in 2007/08 to 20 percent in 2008/09. Fuel economy on the combined cycle is 40.9mpg. There are similar reductions for the 2.0-litre 147ps with CO2 emissions down from 191g/km (hatchback) to 168g/km – 25 percent down to 21 percent.

October 2008

Mazda6 MZR-CD 2.2. New chain cam, balancer shaft 2.2 diesel in three outputs producing from 125-185 PS of power, and torque from 310-400 Nm, while using between 5.5 and 5.7 litres of fuel per 100 km (CO2: 147 to 152g/km on the combined cycle). All models below 150g/km except 185PS wagon at 152g/km.

Mazda announced a new diesel particulate filter (DPF) catalyst, to be launched on the new MZR-CD 2.2 diesel engine. The new catalyst promotes the oxidation of soot in the DPF by oxygen, allowing to burn off particulate matter approximately 60% faster than current systems.

December 2008

New Mazda6 prices to start from just £14,891 on-the-road. Among the specification upgrades is a new standard equipment feature on 15 models from the £17,563 TS2 upwards – Mazda’s lane-change ‘Rear Vehicle Monitoring System’. This innovation will be a significant boost to safer driving. Fully automatic, the new active safety feature employs two rear-facing radar units that detect and warn the driver of an approaching vehicle before he/she has a chance to move across into a busy lane by mistake.

The all-new MZR-CD 2.2-litre engine offers substantially higher power and torque than the previous-generation 2.0-litre diesel, while delivering equal levels of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions and weighing just 6kg more than the smaller capacity power unit.

Offered in three versions producing 185, 163 and 125ps of maximum power output and 400, 360 and 310Nm of torque respectively, the 2.2 will meet the demands of a wide spectrum of customers. Excellent low-end response (from as little as 1,800rpm with a flat maximum torque curve that continues until 3,000rpm) contributes to the smooth and powerful driving feel.

Every Mazda6 diesel comes with a six-speed manual transmission – fitted with a high top ratio (0.711:1) for quiet, relaxed and fuel-efficient cruising. On the combined cycle, the new Mazda6 diesel returns between 51.4mpg and 49.6mpg, with CO2 figures of between just 147g/km and 149g/km for all 4 door and 5 door models. Of the diesel estate models only the high power 185ps derivatives enter vehicle excise duty band D at 152g/km. All other diesel models are placed in a highly competitive band C. Combined with very attractive pricing, these CO2 outputs deliver outstanding Benefit-in-Kind personal tax rates for company car drivers.

The three new diesel powertrains for new Mazda6 retain, or hugely improve, the Zoom-Zoom, fun-to-drive, attributes of this popular Mazda. Acceleration to 62mph with the 2.2-litre low power 125ps diesel takes just 0.2 seconds longer than the previous 2.0-litre 140ps diesel (10.9 compared to 10.7 seconds for the hatchback), while the mid power 163ps achieves 62mph in 9.2 seconds and the high power 185ps reaches that speed in just 8.5 seconds.

For 2009, two S models offer entry to Mazda6 ownership from £14,891. Comprehensive standard equipment includes: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS), six airbags and ‘Active’ front seat head restraints, 16-inch alloy wheels, remote central locking, manual air-conditioning, Karakuri 60/40 split folding rear seats, a radio/single CD audio system with 4 speakers and an auxiliary jack for MP3 players.

Nine TS models (from £15,869), add 14 items including: electric and heated door mirrors, cruise control, trip computer with speed alarm dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, leather steering wheel and gear knob, two additional audio speakers (total = six), a rear seat centre armrest and CF-Net steering wheel controls.

Priced from £17,563, eight TS2 models add nine items including: 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/50 R17 tyres, electric folding door mirrors, dusk-sensing automatic lights, rain sensing automatic wipers, an integrated Bluetooth system and the new Rear Vehicle Monitoring System (RVMS).

Four Sport models (from £19,326), feature smart entry and push-button start, a 240W BOSE sound premium audio system with eight speakers, half leather heated sports seats, Bi-Xenon headlamps plus a much bolder visual differentiation from all other versions, with the ‘Sports Appearance Pack’ fitted as standard on this model, while 18-inch wheels were introduced for the first time on a Mazda6.

Three range-topping Sports Luxury models (from £20,353), bring customers premium equipment such as full leather seats, heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors and electrically powered sun roof.

January 2009

Mazda6 2.0 Tamura delivers 147ps for 0-to-60 mph acceleration in just 10.2 seconds, while its CO2 rating is a modest 168g/km. Based on the Mazda6 2.0 5dr TS model, the new Tamura has the addition of a Sports Styling Pack (including front and rear sports bumpers, side skirts and rear spoiler), plus privacy glass, clear rear light bezels, unique 18-inch alloy wheels and special ‘Tamura’ badging. Inside, this Tamura features alloy pedals and branded Tamura floor mats.

January 2010

Facelift announced for Geneva Show in March 2010. Improved refinement, cabin ambience, environmental compatibility and safety performance. New 2.0-litre DISI1 petrol engine uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions. 5 speed torque converter auto optional. Updated versions of the Mazda MZR 1.8 and 2.5-litre engines complete the petrol line-up.

Mazda MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine is available in three power derivatives – from 129 to 180ps – all with improved fuel-efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. New chassis settings and several new active safety features – like a new pivoting adaptive front lighting system and hill-launch assist – that together make the Mazda6 one of the safest and easiest-to-drive cars in its segment. On sale in Europe from Spring 2010.

March 2010

Mazda Motors UK brought forward the ‘on sale’ date for the upgraded Mazda6 models for 2010. The new 19-strong range features refreshed exterior and interior styling, additional equipment and a range of significant technical enhancements that improve fuel economy by up to 6.4 percent and reduced CO 2 emissions by up to 6.1 percent.

Two body styles (hatchback and estate), six engines (three petrol and three diesel) and four equipment levels – S, TS, TS2, and Sport. Improved fuel economy, lower Road Fund Licence bands and reduced Benefit In Kind costs offer buyers significant savings while prices for the new Mazda6 are increased by an average of just 4.8 percent ranging from £16,990 to £23,445 on-the-road.

A new 2-litre DISI petrol engine delivers 155ps (up from 147ps), while the lower power 2.2-litre diesel generates more power and torque – up 4ps to 129ps and up 20Nm to 340Nm at 1,800rpm. The highest power 2.2-litre diesel now produces 180ps (down 5ps) but modifications to the turbocharger boost torque delivery whilst facilitating improvements in fuel economy and emissions which therefore sees it retaining its overall excellence in performance.

A Sport 2.0-litre petrol model with Mazda’s five-speed automatic transmission is introduced after dealers reported a latent demand for a top-of-the-range model with this specification (but 178g/km CO2). The upgraded Mazda6 achieves fuel economy average improvements of 3.2 and 4.1 percent (petrol/diesel) and emissions reductions that average 4.4 and 4.8 percent (petrol/diesel), so the lower power 2.2-litre, 129ps diesel hatchback now has a rating of just 138g/km. These improvements move many models into a lower RFL band. All new Mazda6 models now meet Euro5 emission standards.

Upgraded equipment for the new Mazda6 encompasses ‘smart’ turn indicators and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) for the ‘S’ grade and all other models. Additional items moving up the range include: rear spoiler (TS upwards), front & rear parking sensors and Hill Hold Assist (HHA), (TS2upwards), and swivel-type AFS front lights (Sport).

Full leather trim is now available as an option on all TS2and Sport models and includes powered driver and front passenger seats with a memory function on the driver’s seat. A choice of eight exterior colours is available - including a single solid colour (Brilliant Black), two metallics (Clear Water Blue and Sunlight Silver), and five micas (Black, Graphite, Stormy Blue, Copper Red and Crystal White Pearl). Standard interior trim is Black cloth (S, TS and TS2), with part cloth/part leather trim on Sport models. Full leather trim is now available as an option on all TS2and Sport models (priced at £1,150 and £750, respectively), and includes powered driver and front passenger seats with a memory function on the driver's seat.

Although the power output of the 2.0-litre petrol engine has been raised (from 147 up to 155ps), Mazda6 models with this power unit are among the most ‘improved' foremissions with the estate down 10g/km to 161 and the hatchback down 9g/km to just 159 - putting the hatch in the 20 percent company car tax bracket for 2010/11.

Power output on the ‘low power' 2.2-litre diesel engine is increased from 125ps to 129ps, but itsemissions in the hatchback are reduced from 147g/km to 138g/km putting this model in the 19 percent company car tax bracket in 2010/11.

June 2010

Mazda6 Takuya Three different guises: 2.0-litre five-door (£19,845), 2.2D 163ps five-door (£20,945) and 2.2D 163ps Estate (£21,595). All three variants benefit from the fitment of 18-inch alloy wheels, a sports grille and dusk-sensing headlights on the exterior, while the interior benefits from an alloy pedal set, half-leather heated seats, auto-dimming rear view mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control air conditioning, leather steering wheel and shift knob and a choice of paint colours.

Mazda6 Takuyas fitted with the 2.0-litre petrol powerplant are capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in 10.3 seconds en route to a 134mph maximum speed. Combined fuel economy of 40.9mpg is achievable and CO2 emissions of 159g/km put the petrol Mazda6 in road tax band G. Meanwhile, the 2.2D 163ps models return an impressive 52.3mpg combined and produce 142g/km CO2 (five-door; estate produces 143g/km CO2). Both versions hit 62mph in just 9.2 seconds.

February 2011

Following the success of the ‘Takuya Special Edition Range' introduced in mid-2010 for a limited period, Mazda is launching five 2011 ‘Takuya' models across the Mazda2, Mazda3 and Mazda6 line-ups with a total production volume of 3,894 units.

Buyers with families, will find Mazda6 Takuya special edition models available in three different guises: a 2.0-litre 155ps five-door (£20,495), 2.2D 163ps five-door (£21,675) and 2.2D 163ps Estate (£22,325).

For £1,050 more than the TS models, all three variants benefit from the fitment of 18-inch alloy wheels, a sports grille, front fog lights, privacy glass and dusk-sensing headlights. The interior features an alloy pedal set, half-leather heated seats, auto-dimming rear view mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control air-conditioning, an integrated Bluetooth system and a six-disc CD changer. A choice of four metallic, mica or pearlescent paint colours is offered free-of-charge.

09-12-11:CO2 reductions bring reduced VED and reduced BIK tax: For the Mazda6, the improvements bring areduction on all Mazda6 2.2-litre 5-door Diesel 163ps and 180ps models - dropping from 142 to 140g/km, which means a £15 a year VED saving as models drop from Band F (£130) to Band E (£115). Meanwhile, a 5g/km reduction (138g/km to 133g/km) on all 2.2-litre 5-door Diesel 129ps models, including the recently launched fleet-focused Mazda6 Business Line, drops them into the 19 percent BIK tax bracket (previously 20 percent) in 2011/12.

April 2012

Mazda6 Venture Edition announced, offering a lot more kit for very little more money. Prices are £21,000 for the 155PS 2.0 litre petrol model hatchaback, £22,300 for the 163PS 2.2 litred diesel hatchback and £22,900 for the 163PS 2.2 litred diesel estate.

Mazda6 Venture Editions are based on Mazda6 TS2models, and feature Sanyo TomTom navigation, integrated Bluetooth, half-leather seat trim and heated front seats.

Outside, Mazda6 Venture Editions have 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, Sports front grille, rear spoiler, privacy glass and a special range of colours - including Brilliant Black and optional Crystal White Pearlescent, Black Mica or Stormy Blue Mica, as well as a unique colour for this version - Dolphin Grey Mica.

Mazda6 Venture Edition models benefit from the standard equipment level of the TS2which includes: front, side and curtain airbags, rear vehicle monitoring system, front rain-sensing wipers, leather steering wheel with audio controls, six disc CD changer with Auxiliary jack and six speakers, front and rear parking sensors and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm.

The petrol hatchback Venture Edition is powered by a 2.0-litre (155ps) MZR engine which accelerates this model to 62mph in 10.3 seconds and returns 40.9mpg (EC combined) with a 159g/kmrating. The 2.2-litre (163ps) MZR-CD engine accelerates to 62mph in 9.2 seconds, and returns 53.3mpg (EC combined) with low emissions of 140 to 141g/km. These two models qualify for Road Fund Licence bands E and F, while sensible Benefit In Kind costs offer significant savings.

Hatchback	Power (ps)	Torque (Nm)	0-62mph (sec)	Top Speed (mph)	Combined (mpg)
2.0 MZR (155ps) Venture Edition	155	193	10.3	134	40.9
Diesel
2.2 MZR-CD (163ps) Venture Edition	163	360	9.2	132	53.3
EstateDiesel
2.2 MZR-CD (163ps) Venture Edition	163	360	9.2	131	53.3

Hatchback

'On the road'

Retail

CO 2

(g/km)

RFL

Band

Insurance

Group

P11D

Value

Monthly BIK

20 / 40%

2.0 MZR (155ps)

Venture Edition

£21,000

159

22 E

22%

£76 / 152

Diesel

2.2 MZR-CD (163ps)

Venture Edition

£22,300

140

24 E

22%

£81 / 162

Estate

Diesel

2.2 MZR-CD (163ps)

Venture Edition

£22,900

141

24 E

22%

£83 / 167

What to watch out for

01-01-0001:

2.0 litre diesels with DPFs are suffering contaminated oil and raised oil levels that can lead to engine damage. The dip stick has a Low, Full and X mark. Between L and F is 1cm and then X is 6cm above Full. The handbook says do not fill past X or you could damage the engine, yet unused fuel gets deposited in the sump by the DPF. So crucial to check the oil level at least weekly, and it it starts to rise towards X, book the car in to your Mazda dealer. It may be that an ECU software upgrade can cure this, and the engine will need an oil change anyway.

Some owners believe the 2.0 diesels are not suitable for town and/or stop start driving as the build up of particulates cannot be removed and contaminates the engine with diesel fuel, leading to costly engine replacements or 3,500 mile oil changes. More on this problem and how to avoid it in the DPF FAQ answer on this website.

20-04-2011:

Supposed not to be a problem with 2.2 diesel as it has a different 'closed loop' type of DPF, yet to regenerate its DPF, even the 2.2 diesel must run at no less than 2,000rpm for 20 minutes . On a Mazda 2.2 diesel that is 75 mph in 6th gear, though obviously less in 4th or 5th. The car supposedly has 12,500 mile oil change intervals but is likely to dilute and contaminate its engine oil with diesel long before that, so the oil level needs constantly checking. CRUCIAL TO REGULARLY CHECK THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL.

14-03-2011: TPMS tyre valves are prone to failure from mixed metal corrosion.

28-05-2011:

Apparently some cars have cracks in the rubber boot button, sometimes very fine, that let in moisture and then lead to the boot opening or remaining shut and cause a battery leakdown.

31-05-2011:

2.0 litre diesel DPF removal service: www.sinspeed.co.uk , but, unfortunately, this is outlawed by EC rules about removal of anti emission equipment that could feed through to the UK MoT.

05-02-2012:

Timing chains of 2.2 diesels are stretching.

05-02-2012:

DPFs failing to regenerate can bring numerous other problems: DPF Blockage (Loss Of Power, Warning Lights On Dash, Limp Mode); Stuck In Regen Mode (Dumps Diesel In Oil + Reduces Oil Lubrication); Blocks EGR valve (Carbon Backup); Backpressure Destroys Turbo (Carbon Backup); Carbon Backup Damages Injectors; Carbon Backup Damages Engine Seals & can cause overpressurising

17-07-2012:

DPFs of 2.2 diesel continuing to fail, resulting in total engine failure if the oil/fuel level in the engine is not checked and addressed. Today had notification of another 2.2 diesel engine failure at 36,500, but at the time of failure the engine contained 8.5 litres of fuel/oil mixture so the driver had obviously not checked the oil level.

22-05-2013:

DPF problem with 65k mile 2.2 diesel attributed by dealer to stretched timing chain.

07-06-2013:

Seems to be a problem of the timing chain of the 2.2 diesel wearing against the engine block creating swarf that eventually blocks oilways. Happened to a reader's 46k mile 2009/59.

21-11-2013:

In contrast to the reports of DPF problems, RA of Kirkcudbright has a 2011 Mazda 6 2.2 180PS diesel that has done 120k miles with no DPF problems at all and which he describes as "totally bomb proof."

24-11-2013:

Previously unexplained reason for contaminated sumps on Mazda 6 diesels: If the engine management system hasn't been properly informed that the 12,000 mile service has been done, the PDF light comes on & 'regeneration' starts (= putting diesel to burn off the PDF debris, which also contaminates the engine oil.). Sometimes dealers fail to do this resulting in endless DPF regeneration.

28-01-2014:

Injector seal failed on 43k mile 2009 Mazda 6 2.2 185PS diesel, leading to total engine failure and a potential bill of £7,600. Eventually, Mazda offered £3,800 towards the repair.

01-03-2014:

Problems caused by blocked oil strainer in Mazda 2.2 diesel with full service history and low to medium mileage. Oil light came on. Garage dropped sump and found the strainer was carbonised. Cleaned it, flushed the old oil. 2,000 miles later oil light on again. Diesel specialist diagnosed the cause of oil deterioration to be is leaking injector seals. Lot of debris in oil strainer: carbon again and also metal filings. Mazda has issued a service bulletin to check oil strainers but the damage has already been done in many cars that are now 3 or 4 years old.

03-03-2014:

Yet another 2008-2012 Mazda 6 2.2 diesel engine failure reported, this on a 53k miles 2009 car. First warning lights, followed by an oil and filter change, but light remained on. Seems to be the same oil strainer problem.

13-11-2014:

62,500 mile 2008 Mazda 6 diesel suffered fuel injector seal failure resulting in carbon contamination of the engine and a blocked oil strainer. No metal shards in strainer but strainer can't be replaced or cleaned and engine needs a new "lower engine panel" at around £680, which will take six hours to fit.

12-06-2015:

Report of used 78k mile 2011 Mazda 6 needing a new steering rack prioer to sale due to a faulty torque sensor (steering angle sensor?). Apparently this is fairly common.

02-08-2015:

Another case of a Mazda 6 2.2 diesel failing to regenerate its DPF and instead filling its sump with diesel then running on its sump oil until it blew up.

07-09-2015:

Two Mazda 6 2.2 diesel bought by the same owner suffered clogging of the oil strainer in the sump during the same year. First car successfully rejected. 2nd car failed at 36,200 miles.

08-09-2016:

Oil pressure light came on in 2010 Mazda 6 Sport diesel at around 66,000 miles. Found to be due to blocked sump oil strainer so engine had been running inadequately lubricated. Also had a seized injector which may have been contaminating the subp oil with diesel. Dealer said new engine needed.

22-01-2017:

Report of heavy oil consumption of 1.8 petrol engine of 2009 Mazda 6. Mazda dealer said it was because the car had been driven too gently for the oil rings to remain bedded in properly.

17-03-2017:

Report of DPF light flashing leading to the discovery that the timing chain of a 2011 Mazda 6 2.2 diesel was prematurely worn at 57,000 miles. I ghuess this was caused by engine oil contamination from the fuel introduced to actively regenerate the DPF sinking into the sump instead.

06-07-2017:

A lot of brake problems all at once reported on an 83,000 mile 2010 Mazda 6 automatic. All the brake callipers started sticking, requiring replacement of the calliper pins as well as discs and pads. Exhaust system now attracting MoT advisorys.

24-11-2017:

Report of 2009 Mazda 6 ngine and turbo failing at 106,000 miles due to blocked oil sump strainer. Car had been regularly serviced by Mazda dealer.

04-12-2017:

Report of DPF light coming on in 2010 Mazda 6 2.2 diesel at 99k miles (no problems before). Probably because DOF has filled up with ash. Two options. One is to have the DPF sent away to be chemically cleaned by the Ceramex process, which costs about £400 all-in. The other is to replace the DPF, which costs about £1,000.

19-03-2018:

Report of failure of power assistance to the steering of privately bought 2011 Mazda 6 Tourer.

28-11-2018:

Report of problems with timing chain and camshaft of 2009 Mazda 6 estate in November 2017. Owner told timing chain had stretched, partly covered by used car warranty, but owner had to pay £650. Then told dealer could not time it properly because he thought the ECU has been remapped. 12 months later (car now at 76,000 miles), same problem again chain gone slack sounding like cement mixer. Dealer took it apart and said a tensioner had failed so replaced it and chain but could not set timing. Dealer tried to claim from Mazda for failed tensioner, sending photos. mazda replies that camshaft was worn causing timing to be out. Dealer says can eventuallys et timing but chain will stretch again.

11-04-2019:

Report of rust inside the tailgate of a 2011/61 Mazda 6 estate but because the owner did not have the annual bodywork inspection since 2016, Mazda was entitled to void the no perforation warranty.

19-06-2019:

Report of DPF clean, sensor change, timing belt and service in October 2018 at 86,000 on 2012 Mazda 6. It was returned to the garage with the DPF light on at 98,000 and for a service. However owner was told the timing chain is damaged because he did not get it serviced at 6,000 miles and diesel got in the sump. The reason for this was that the DPF was not actively regenerating properly and the reason for that was most likely that is is full of ash. A forced regen by the dealer can get rid of the soot but, by 80,000 miles, most DPFs are starting to fill up with ash and that prevents them from actively regenerating properly with the result that post-injected diesel to fire off the regen sinks into the sump. You either need a new DPF or need it to be chemically cleaned of ash by Ceramex.

14-08-2019:

Report of airbag light coming on in 2008/58 Mazda 6 after airbag recall work was carried out in April 2019. Likely to be a loose connection.