Wonderful car
Picked up a 6s manual fully loaded as a Xmas present to myself after months of research and test drives. I am thouroughly pleased with the car's handling, engine and interior. The rear spoiler is a little disco for me, but didn't want to wait 3 months for one without. The buying experience was good except the haggling over trade in value.
Zoom, zoom, zoom!
This car is by far one of the better ones I've owned & it is by far the most fun to drive. I've been a Honda owner many times, but this car has changed my thinking. I love the heated leather seats, steering controls, & best of all, the sport shift stick. The hatch on the wagon is easy to open and close, hard to say about most vehicles (I'm only 5'3" tall). This car is really a headturner & people are always asking me what it is and commenting on the sporty styling. It is easy to get my son in/out of the car & the hatch makes it so easy to load groceries, strollers, etc. If you're in the market for a smaller SUV and want something that gets good gas mileage, here's your best bet.
Best Bang for the Buck
I did 2-month research and almost did not buy this car when I found out it had Ford engine. It was between this and a 2002 Audi A4 1.8T Quatro. I chose the Mazda 6 Audi was too much $$$ for only all wheel drive difference. I have had it a day and I have no regrets. The pickup is lacking but the handling is awesome for a car without all wheel drive. I will increase the torque and low speed UMPH when after market products come out for this car but until then - my payments are less and my fun factor is still 9/10.
Great Bang for the Buck!
Bought this car new for my wife in early 2004. We broke it in by driving it from Colorado Springs, CO to Anchorage, AK via Canada. It has never let us down, always been a great car
Best Sports Sedan for the Buck!
My wife had a 2001 Acura Integra and needed a bigger car. After careful research, we decided on the Mazda 6S in Sepang Green and can't be more happier. The car is loaded with everything but leather and navigation. The styling is very sporty for a 4 door sedan. Performance and handling are excellent. The engine and transmission are smooth throughout acceleration and quite quiet. The interior is very roomy. The car has ample storage space. I like the spring-loaded rear seats that fold when you pull the levers in the trunk. I also like the fact that it is easy for me to change the oil. I don't think there is a car on the market with this many features for the money!