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The 3i even looks a bit shorter than either the Camry or the Accord...but it could just be an optical illusion. Just wish they could downsize the 6 into the 3 size and leave everything else the same. I have a feeling though that Mazda can't touch Toyota or Honda in the mileage game. That's the only complaint I've got with our 3 also...the mileage. Wish Mazda could have the same technology as Toyota & Honda.
The Sandman
The Sandman
Actually, I find the red to be less of a distraction at night compared to green or yellow. Second to the VW blue, I'll take red anyday.
I've put on plenty of miles at night with my 6, and I've never had to strain my eyes to see the gauges, and they've never interfered with my night vision in any way.
If possible, try it at night yourself. The worst thing that could happen is that you don't like it and you end your test-drive. You may even like it...
I've got a 2006 mazda 6s, when I originally got the car there were a couple spots on the bumper that had the clear coat taken off by the dealer using some solvent, so I brought it back and they repainted the bumper for me. Now I'm not sure if the paint was like this all along but I ran my hand over it last week and it felt kind of rough, like pollen had built up on it. I figured it was just dirty so I'd wash it and it would go away. I washed it yesterday and the paint still has a rough texture to it, the car is still shiny but I was wondering is it supposed to feel like this? This isn't just the bumper, it's the whole car. I was under the impression that it should be slick and glossy but I don't know if it was like this before I brought it back to the dealer to get fixed, I've got the Tungsten Gray, go run your hand over your paint job and let me know please! Also if it's not supposed to be like that what do I do now?
CR has a chart of the Mazda 6 reliability for the 4 cyl? I haven't seen CR's chart for reliability for the 4 cyl 6 sedan model. CR does have a chart 6 sedan V6 model that I have seen in the current issue.
"With this sharing between models one would think that the models would rate similarly in reliability."
The 6 6 cyl sedan combined for 03-05 model years just finished a little below average in reliability.
The 03 6 6 cyl sedan had bad reliability ratings for troubles spots such as cooling, Transmission, A/C, brakes, and Fuel. Overall, the 03 6 6 cyl sedan finshed with an under average reliability rating for that year.
For the 04 6 6 cyl sedan the issues with the transmission, A/C, cooling, and fuel(to a point-average rating for that trouble spot)were fixed although the brake problems still remained. Overall, the 04 6 6cyl sedan finished with an average reliability rating for that year.
For the 05 6 6 cyl sedan still had problems with the brakes and a little problem with the trouble spot of exhaust(average reliability rating for that particular category.) The trouble spot of fuel also had an average reliability rating which led to an under average reliability rating for the 05 6 6 cyl sedan. Keep in mind all 05 cars that CR surveyed only had 3,000 miles on them.
Also, the 6 wagon finished above average in CR ratings combined for 03-05 model years in realibility. and the 6 hatchback finshed under average in reliability for the 03-05 model years.
I am a current Chevrolet Equinox owner that has had too many problems with a brand new vehicle and am looking to trade it in in the near future. I am currently looking at either the Grand Sport i or Grand Touring i.
Are people having a lot of problems with either of these 2 cars? What is the average MPG that everyone is getting? General Maintence is not a problem, I just want to make sure that this vehicle I'll be able to drive rather then being in the shop every other week! Plus I miss driving a manual vehicle!
If you could please let me know any pros and cons that everyone has experience along with average mpg that would be great! Thanks alot and I hope to be driving the new Mazda 6 soon :-)
I recently traded in a current-version Malibu for a Mazda6i (base model, no options other than 5-speed auto). I only have 500 miles on the car so far, and my gas mileage has been around 28 mpg (mixed driving - 50/50).
I really enjoy the car, and like the sporty character of the car. Build quality is excellent. Materials quality in the cabin overall is excellent, but there are a few places with cheap plastic (but still, probably a major step up from your Equinox). Many people have complained about the low-end torque of the 4-cylinder engine, but I've found it to be more than adequate, especially coming from the 3.5L GM V6.
Pros - sporty handling, peppy, high-revving engine, good ride quality considering how well it handles, automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, comfortable seats.
Cons - wide turning radius, engine can be loud during acceleration (although I like it), lack of Mazda dealers in my area, annoying "seat belt reminder," many owners consider the car a little to "cozy" for their tastes.
Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase, especially considering the rebates Mazda is offering right now. SO happy to be rid of my problem-ridden Malibu (car started to fall apart at 33,000 miles - I went through 3 steering columns in 4 months). Since I have driven the Equinox before, I think you will consider the Mazda6 a step up from your current ride.
You may also want to consider cross-shopping the Ford Fusion (based on the Mazda6 platform, but bigger) if you find that the Mazda6 is a little too small for your lifestyle (I'm single and only occasionally need the back seat).
I also think the 4 cyl provides sufficient power. I test drove Fusion and Milan in a 4 cyl and recently had a 4 cyl 2005 Mazda 6 as a loaner for a few days.
Thanks for the feedback it is super appreciated. I'm looking to find a reliable car not one that is in the shop every other weekend.
My Equinox currently has 18,500 miles on it and has been in the shop more then my previous car, a 93 Saturn. For being a brand new it seems everything is falling apart, I've had antifreeze issues and the dealer has done what the bulletin states 3 times, I too have had to replace my steering column and it was at 14,000 miles, and other misc issues that should not have occured yet!
I definately like the way the Mazda 6 looks and am looking for something sporty instead of a big vehicle because it's just me and stopping at the gas station twice a week is getting to be a pain. Getting 28 mpg is definately making this purchase more appealing!
What rebates and incentives were out there when you bought your Mazda? I've researched online and found they are offering 2,000 cach back until the end of May and if you finance through MAC an additional 500 off.
- Traction control/ABS was hard to find on the SE Fusion model without getting a lot of other options that I didn't want. I basically wanted an automatic with ABS/TC and radio controls on the steering wheel.
- The Fulan does not offer manual shifting on the automatic. Not a deal breaker, but I occasionally drive up mountain roads & like the option of downshifting when I want to.
- I liked the Mazda6's interior better, but interior quality is probably about the same. I liked the "feel" of the Mazda6 seats.
- The Fulans available with ABS/Traction control were more expensive than a base Mazda6 (after considering rebates - Mazda's $2,500 vs. Ford's $1,000 PerfectMatch & $500 manufacturer rebate).
- The warranty on the Mazda6 is 4/50K versus 3/36K (Mazda is going back to 3/36K in 07). This was especially important after coming from a GM vehicle with 3/36K.
Hope this helps!
Bumper-to-bumper. The powertrain will be 6 years/60K miles.
Consumer Reports recommends the 4 cylinder models, but not the V6 models of the Mazda6. I talked with a few Mazda6i owners before I purchased mine, and they have not had any major problems with their cars. My hope is that by 2006 (the 4th model year of the car) the major problems have been worked out. That said, this is the first year Mazda is using this 5-speed transmission, and I never was able to get a straight answer to where it is sourced from (Mazda, Ford, JATCO, Aisin, etc). One dealership told me Ford, but my window sticker says the parts for the transmission were made in Japan. Overall, I really like the transmission - it's smooth shifting and shifts when it is supposed to.
I'll also note that I did own a 20036i that was totalled in an accident - no injuries to me, luckily. I did have a few minor problems with the car - CEL at 1,500 miles (computer reprogrammed), driver's side visor would not stay "up" (replaced visor), door staining recall (no fix done/needed), fuel recall (examined, everything was fine), radio went out at 20,000 miles. Not too bad considering that 2 of those visits were for recalls. And, I had one of the first 6i's built.
I just did my second fill-up today, and my mileage was 29MPG (50% city, 50% highway). Very happy with the mileage, especially considering that the car only has 500 miles on it and hasn't fully broken in (I fill up weekly to avoid "sticker shock" - drive about 250 miles per week). With that said, I'm a very conservative driver.
When I purchased my car, Mazda was offering $2,000 factory cash back and $500 if financed through Mazda American Credit. You have to make three payments before you can refinance the auto loan. My interest rate sucks - 8.35% (top tier credit customer), so I'll be refinancing with my credit union as soon as possible.
Overall, I don't think you can beat the value and "fun to drive" factor of the 6. Hopefully, you can find a good Mazda dealer in your area (from what I've read, it's hit and miss).
I'm looking at the Mazda 6 Grand Sport, is there a reason why consumer reports does not recommend the V6? While looking at the Specs I noticed that only the Grand Sport and the Grand Touring were the only Mazda 6's that offered Leather seats and I'm biased to Leather vs Cloth. I'm also looking at the V6 versus the 4 Cylinder. I know I'll lose some gas mpg there, but the more power the better!
I'm planning on dealer shopping this weekend and test driving both the manual and automatics to get a feel for the difference.
Thanks for the input! Now I just need to find out my Equinox is worth.
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
Not for nothing, but you do know the Mazda 6 is built in Michigan, alongside the Mustang, right?
Not to give credit where it's not due (I've heard about TONS of QC issues with the Equinox), but buying ANY car is a crapshoot these days.
Even buying a Toyota isn't safe. I've heard a bunch of TSBs and QC problems with the new Avalons, and there are tranny problems cropping up on the '07 Camrys.
I'm looking at the Mazda 6 Grand Sport, is there a reason why consumer reports does not recommend the V6?
There were PCV valve and spun bearing problems (due to oil starvation) that showed on '03 and '04 models, but seem to have dissipated. Don't get discouraged though, I bought my V6 sedan (with manual transmission) in '04, and with close to 30K miles, it hasn't failed me yet. A faulty gas cap has been my only issue.
I'm planning on dealer shopping this weekend and test driving both the manual and automatics to get a feel for the difference.
A few tips for you... I suggest getting the manual with the 6i (4-cyl), the automatic is lethargic at best, and saps a ton of HP compared to the manual. The 4-cyl is slightly more balanced in handling, but the 6s (with V6) has got good power with the automatic, and is downright a blast to drive with a manual. If you like power, stick with the V6 w/manual. Mileage isn't bad either. I get about 22 MPG pure city, 29 MPG pure highway, and I average about 26-27 MPG week-to-week (my commute is 80% highway).
Good luck with whatever you do, and if you get a 6, great! You won't regret it. :shades:
The reason I ask is because I've found a 2005 with 5,500 miles on it. The specs are listed below:
Vehicle 2005 Mazda MAZDA6 S
Bodystyle 4 Dr Sedan
Exterior Color Onyx Black
Interior Color Beige
Mileage 5,424 Miles
Engine 3.0 liter 6 Cyl. Fuel Injected
Transmission Automatic
With these options:
Cruise Control
Side Impact Airbag(s)
Power Door Locks
Power Windows
Tachometer
Air Conditioning
Rear Defroster
Front Bucket Seats
Climate Control
Fold Down Rear Seat
Map Lights
Child-proof Locks
Compass
Anti-lock Braking System
Heated Seat
AM/FM Stereo Radio
Rear Spoiler
Heated Outside Mirrors
Compact Disc Player
Fog Lamps
Dual Electric Mirrors
Stereo Control In Steering
Vanity Mirror(s)
Power Driver's Seat
Elec. Rear View Mirror
Digital Thermometer
Traction Control
Power Sunroof
Dual Air Bags
Alloy Wheels
Leather Upholstery
Bose Sound System
Beverage Holder (s)
Keyless Entry
Homelink System
My wife drove the car for a day before I got behind the wheel for a weekend trip out of town. The car drives like a dream. The AC doesn't appear to sap the engine of power, as it did in my 1993 Geo Prizm (1.6 liter). I love the 2.3-liter engine, which is a huge step up for me.
And, I confess, I love seeing marketing materials, and now TV ads, that suggest Mazda is marketing the 6 to MEN. The Mazda 3 is a cute car, but I thought that if I went with a 3, or even with the Impreza, I'd have some small stigma about driving a "woman's car" again. That stigma hasn't really bothered me for the 12 years I've driven my Prizm, but I figured that if I could get a reliable car with room to accommodate my growing family, without trading off much in the area of mileage -- a RESPONSIBLE, SENSIBLE car aimed at men, I would. So I did.
So far, no regrets. I've got 600-plus miles on it. The transmission grabbed once when I was moving slowly through a light, in heavy traffic, and I accelerated after braking. I guess it was an upshift from 1st to 2nd, although I wasn't monitoring. Anyway, I haven't had that experience since. I'm sensitive to it, though, because I've been reading that Mazda transmissions are known trouble spots, and my 4-cylinder, I'm told, has the "Mazda engine," rather than the "Ford engine" in the 6-cylinder.
Bottom line so far: I'm delighted.
Thanks!
I'd suggest buying 16" wheels and snow tires. The 16" wheels are base equipment for the 6, so they'll fit just fine. The size you'll need (205/60-16) is narrower and has more sidewall, which is an advantage in deeper snow and slush (compared to the 215/50-17 on 17" wheels).
I have this combination, with a set of Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2s, and they work great! Outstanding control in the snow and slush, without sacrificing too much handling in dry weather. I can pass SUVs with confidence on the highway, and even through 6-8" of fresh snow, I've never been stuck or stranded.
thanks,
AT
Even though the Equinox has an american emblem on it(Chevy) I think its(the Equinox)is build overseas somewhere so its not american assembled.
AWD? Maybe...
In addition, I would like the 6 to be as quiet as the Fusion/Milan is and have seats that are as comfortable...or have those changes already occured for the '06 model? (I have only driven an '05...and seat was a little too hard and it was a quite a bit noisier than Fusion)
Also hope the 5 door hatch version will still be available, if I wait for the '08.
PF Flyer
Host
Automotive News & Views, Wagons, & Hybrid Vehicles
The Mazda Club Chat is on tonight. The chat room opens at 8:45PM ET Hope to see YOU there! Check out the schedule
Bumper-to-bumper. The powertrain will be 6 years/60K miles.
Actually it will be 5 year power train...
2007 Mazda warranty
Is the 2008 expected to be an early release, like spring of 2007?
I know it's three months after the fact
The Mazda Club Chat is on tonight. The chat room opens at 8:45PM ET Hope to see YOU there! Check out the schedule
4. 4-cyl with automatic
2. TIE: 4-cyl with manual
V6 with automatic
1. V6 with manual
The V6 has great pull, especially with the manual (what I bought), but the 4-cyl has decent performance with the manual as well, IMO on par with the V6 and automatic. I'd avoid the 4-cyl automatic, too much of a dog for me.
I'm VERY happy with my V6 manual. I've got plenty of power for passing on two-lanes or highways, and still get 26 MPG for my commute (85% highway).
I wouldn't be too concerned about gas mileage, I drive 40% highway and 60% city and am averaging 24-27 mpg, and I don't drive like an old person either! This car was built to drive and that's how I drive it.
Good luck with your decision!
With these same two engines in Fusion/Milan, CR got 0-60 time of 8 sec with V6 and 9.5 with the 4 cyl. What are you used to in your current vehicle? For me I am used to and satified with cars with very similar acceleration times, so the 4 cyl seems like it will be fine to me.
I test drove both and can't say that I felt there was a big difference...did have 3 people in the car with the V6 and only myself with the 4 cyl, though.
I also had a 2005 4 cyl for about a week as a loaner and it seemed fine to me as far as power and acceleration and that was with only the old 4 speed trans.
Personally, I think you'd be happier with the V6 with an automatic, but I'd test-drive both of them again, both to check out the noise levels at speed, and the acceleration, both from a standstill and at highway onramp speeds, to see which one is right for you.
Good luck with whatever you choose.
Last night my wife and I went back to our local Mazda dealership to make an offer on a 2006 Mazda6 4 cylinder. Here are the sticker stats:
base price: 19,110
convenience package:
- perimeter alarm
- 17" alloy wheels w/ 215/50R17 tires
- 8 way power driver's seat 1,000
auto trans: 900
side curatin air bags: 500
rear spoiler: 325
autodim mirror w/ compass: 175
sport grill: 100
wheel locks: 40
cargo net: 40
delivery charge: 560
----------
MSRP: 22,750
We had the TMV numbers from here, so we set our ceiling price before we walked in their door. Sitting down with the salesman and his sales manager, they told me they'd take $1200 off the sticker. After looking at their number sheet, which showed:
$1200 sales tax
$250 license, title, assorted fees
and the $2500 deduction "Mazda-to-customer" rebate on 2006 models, their final number was $20,500. Considering that this car is last year's model, meaning it already has depreciated, and that the moment I drive it off the lot its value will drop a few grand, I told him that he could do better. According to Edmunds, the invoice price on this vehicle is $20,750, so if you deduct the $2500 Mazda cash, add on the sales tax and fees brings it to $19,641.
The sales manager gave me the song and dance of "We're losing money at this price", to which I responded, "Then why are you willing to take a loss to sell it to me at all?" I told him I had researched the car on Edmunds, KBB.com, cars.com, and other web sites. He replied, "You can't trust what you read on the Internet". I just said "Your price is higher than I'm willing to pay. I want to see me out the door below $20,000." He said, "I can't do that, I'm already losing money as it is."
Pausing, I responded, "Your price is $800 ABOVE your invoice cost, not to mention the profit you're getting in your fees, your dealer holdback from Mazda, and any factory to dealer incentives I don't know about. So I'm pretty confident that your netting around $1000 on this sale. I'm willing to come up to $19,999 but that's my ceiling." He said "No way", so we walked.
Did I screw myself here? It's cheaper than a Camry or Accord, since all dealers in my area are packing on the useless extras - and Gulf States Toyota, this state's distributor, never ships a car to a dealer without at least $1500 of THEIR selected options to begin with. And at least this dealership didn't pack on a bunch of useless options on its own sticker. (Though it's debatable that the wheel locks, cargo net, and rear spoiler aren't truly useless.)
Your thoughts?