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10/06/2008
By EWAN KENNEDY
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Mazda6 is a mid-sized Japanese car that was introduced to Australia in August 2002. A replacement for the long-running Mazda 626, it was significantly different from its predecessor, hence the new name. The 626 had proven popular with used-car buyers in this country for many years, and the ‘6 has continued that tradition. Holding its value well and generally running for years without any real problems.
A new model Mazda6 was launched in February 2008 but it still a rarity on the used-car market, so won’t be covered in this feature.
 Mazda6 displays an interesting combination of European styling and handling dynamics and Japanese quality. There's a fair bit of Alfa Romeo in the styling of the Mazda6, particularly in the interior, with its large instrument binnacle, big dials and round controls and ventilation outlets.
The body of the Mazda6 displays a deep five-point grille and tail-lights that make a big statement in their complexity of shape both inside and out. This body was given a minor facelift in August 2005, but so good was the original shape that changes were minor.
Interior space is reasonable, four adults can be transported but will often find they have to compromise on legroom. Rear headroom is good, without being overly generous. The exception is the station wagon which has extra headspace over the back seat.
These cars have good handling, with excellent steering feel and precise reaction to the throttle. They are not quite to full-on European standards of cars in this class, but come close. And the extra quality of build offered by the Mazda is more than enough to swing many buyers in the direction of the Japanese model.
Meaning there are plenty on the used-car scene and resale values are pleasingly high.
Mazda6 is powered by a four-cylinder engine, the V6 option once offered in the Mazda 626 not being part of the scene this time around. However, such is the pace of modern engine design that the new 2.3-litre four-cylinder used in the Mazda6 produces more power than the old 2.5-litre V6 from the older 626. The engine has plenty of torque that’s produced in a nicely linear fashion and comes with a lovely exhaust note that appeals to the sporting driver.
 Mazda was in the vanguard of Japanese makers with turbo-diesel engines in cars. A Mazda6 Diesel option with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine was offered as an option from October 2006, but hasn’t proven particularly popular.
Power in all models was transmitted through either a five-speed manual or four-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, until the launch of the updated model in August 2005, when the car was uprated to feature a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic.
Unusually for fully imported Japanese cars, Mazda6 is sold in three body types: sedan, hatch and station wagon. Not all models are offered in all body shapes. The hatch also comes in a Sports Hatch format, with a bold body kit. The diesel engine comes only as a station wagon and all have a six-speed manual gearbox.
Underbonnet access isn’t too bad. These are quite complex cars so it’s probably best if you leave servicing and repairs to the professionals. A good amateur mechanic will be able to do a fair bit of work, but we suggest they stay away from safety related areas. And have a workshop manual at your elbow before getting started.
Mazda has dealers in most areas of Australia. Don’t expect to find them in every town when you get deeply into the outback, but backup from the head office in Melbourne can usually get your Mazda back on the road again without any real delay.
Insurance costs are about average for a fully imported Japanese car and we know of no major company that charges an extra premium for the Sports Hatch.
 Mazda6 is nearing the end of its life, a new model has been shown in Japan and is expected in Australia in the first few months of 2008.
We have ignored the high-performance Mazda6 MPS in this used-car feature as it’s substantially different to the rest of the Mazda6 range. It will be covered in a separate article.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Check for that the engine starts promptly and settles into a steady idle within a few seconds of kicking over.
An automatic transmission that’s slow to go into gear, or which hunts up and down through the ratios could be due for a service, or even an overhaul.
A manual gearbox that’s reluctant to go into gear is also likely to need attention. Fast changes from third to second are often the first to play up.
Listen for a knocking noise inside the front wheels when the steering wheel is on full lock. Try it at very slow speeds and both to the right and the left. The problem may be worn universal joints.
Check for crash repairs that haven’t been done correctly. These can lead to body rust and a weakening of the complete structure. Look for panels that have a slight ripple in their finish, most easily seen by looking along the panel in good light. Also check for paint overspray on unpainted areas such as glass, badges and plastic components.
If there's the slightest doubt about the condition of the body have a professional do a full inspection.
Look for damage to the interior, especially any caused to the back seat by bored kids. And to the boot by luggage slip sliding around.
HOW MUCH?
Expect to pay from $9000 to $15,000 for a 2002 Mazda6 Classic; $12,000 to $19,000 for a 2003 Classic; $14,000 to $21,000 for a 2005 Limited; $17,000 to $24,000 for a 2005 Classic; $20,000 to $28,000 for a 2006 Diesel; and $25,000 to $35,000 for a 2007 Luxury Sports.
CAR BUYING TIP
Set a budget and stick to it. And don’t forget to allow for transfer fees, registration and insurance, not just for the car itself.
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