Attention all car enthusiasts! Are you ready to experience the thrill of a Mazda? But wait! Before you make your decision, let’s dive into the ultimate debate – Mazda3 vs Mazda6.
These two models are both unique in their own way, so it’s crucial to understand their differences to make an informed decision that suits your specific needs.
The Mazda3 is the perfect combination of versatility and performance, offering both sedan and hatchback body styles.
With its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, you’ll experience a balanced combination of fuel efficiency and power that will make your heart race.
On the other hand, the Mazda6 is a midsize sedan that brings you a more spacious interior and an available turbocharged engine for a more engaging driving experience.
Although it may come with a slightly higher price tag, its elegant design and advanced features make it worth every penny.
Let’s hit the road and experience the thrill of a Mazda!
Here is fresh list of the best years for the Mazda3 cars, and detailed exposure on Mazda 3 vs Mazda CX-3 comparison facts.
Contents
- 1 Mazda 3 vs Mazda 6 – Size and Style
- 2 Exterior Dimensions
- 3 Interior Space
- 4 Engines and Performance
- 5 Engine Options
- 6 Power and Torque
- 7 Handling and Ride
- 8 Fuel Economy and Efficiency
- 9 Trim Levels and Pricing
- 10 Technology and Convenience Features
- 11 Safety and Security
- 12 Infotainment and Entertainment
- 13 Comparing the Mazda3 and Mazda6 to Competitors
- 14 Audi A3
- 15 Honda Civic
- 16 Hyundai Elantra
- 17 Subaru Impreza
- 18 Toyota Corolla
- 19 Share this post:
Mazda 3 vs Mazda 6 – Size and Style
Exterior Dimensions
When comparing the Mazda 3 vs Mazda 6, their exterior dimensions are noticeably different.
The Mazda3, being a compact car, is smaller in size than the Mazda6, which is a midsize car. This difference in size influences their style and available body types.
The Mazda3 offers two body styles: a sedan and a hatchback. This gives you the flexibility to choose the style that best suits your needs and preferences. In contrast, the Mazda6 is available only as a sedan.
Interior Space
When it comes to interior space, the Mazda6 has a roomier cabin with larger rear and front seats, providing more comfort for passengers.
The rear seats in particular offer more legroom in the Mazda6, making it a better option for families and those who frequently have passengers in the back seat.
However, the Mazda3 compensates for its more compact size by offering a five-door hatchback body style in addition to its four-door sedan version.
The hatchback provides more versatility when it comes to cargo space, making it easier to carry larger items and adapt to your everyday needs.
NOTE: We published some detailed Mazda3 problems and models to avoid and similar detailed guide about Mazda 6 worst models to stay off.
Engines and Performance
Engine Options
Both the Mazda3 and Mazda6 offer impressive engine options for their respective segments. The Mazda3 comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as standard, producing 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque.
On the other hand, the Mazda6 features a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque.
It also has an available turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces either 227 or 250 hp and 310-320 lb-ft of torque, depending on the octane level. These options allow you to choose the powertrain that best suits your needs.
Power and Torque
| Model | Base Engine Horsepower | Base Engine Torque | Optional Turbo Engine Horsepower | Optional Turbo Engine Torque |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda3 | 186 hp | 186 lb-ft | N/A | N/A |
| Mazda6 | 187 hp | 186 lb-ft | 227-250 hp | 310-320 lb-ft |
Handling and Ride
When it comes to handling, both the Mazda3 and Mazda6 don’t disappoint. They are known for their agile handling and responsive steering, making them a pleasure to drive on twisty roads.
The Mazda3 benefits from its compact size, giving it a more nimble feel, while the Mazda6 provides a more planted and stable ride.
The Mazda3 is available with an all-wheel-drive system, which enhances traction and handling in challenging weather conditions.
The Mazda6, however, only comes in a front-wheel-drive configuration. Both cars are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth gear shifts for a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
In summary:
- Mazda3: Compact size, available AWD, agile handling,
- Mazda6: More stable ride, FWD only, sportier experience with optional turbo engine.
TIPS: We just added more resources to give more options: Mazda cx 30 vs Mazda3 – which is better?
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
When comparing the fuel economy of the Mazda3 and Mazda6, it’s important to consider both their city and highway mpg.
The Mazda3 has a slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
This improvement in gas mileage can be attributed to its smaller size and lighter weight. On the other hand, non-turbocharged versions of the Mazda6 are EPA rated at 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Now, let’s dive deeper into their engine options and performance:
- Mazda3: The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. Starting from the 2021 model, you also have the option to equip your Mazda3 with a 2.5-liter turbo engine.
- Mazda6: This model also comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing similar power and torque figures as the Mazda3. However, it doesn’t offer the turbo engine option3.
In terms of efficiency, both models are relatively similar, with the following minor differences:
- Combined Fuel Economy.
- Mazda3: 30 MPG
- Mazda6: 29 MPG
- Cruising Range.
- Mazda3: 462.00 mi
- Mazda6: 574.00 mi
Even though the Mazda3 boasts a slightly better fuel economy, it has a shorter cruising range in comparison to the Mazda6.
This trade-off depends on your driving habits and preferences.
Remember, your choice between these two models should also take into account other factors such as size, features, and budget. While the fuel economy and efficiency differences are minimal, these aspects may influence your overall decision.
Trim Levels and Pricing
For the Mazda3, you have several trims to choose from. Starting with the Mazda3 2.5 S, the base model has an MSRP of $22,550.
As you move up in trim levels, you’ll find additional features and improved performance. Some of the available trims for the Mazda3 include:
- 2.5 S FWD
- 2.5 S Select FWD
- 2.5 S Preferred FWD
- 2.5 S Premium FWD
- 2.5 S Carbon Edition FWD
- 2.5 S Premium Plus AWD
The pricing for these trims ranges from about $22,550 for the base 2.5 S to around $33,900 for the top-of-the-line 2.5 S Premium Plus AWD model.
On the other hand, the Mazda6 offers different trims with unique features designed to cater to your preferences. Some of the key trims available for the Mazda6 include:
- Sport
- Touring
- Grand Touring
- Grand Touring Reserve
- Carbon Edition
- Signature
For the Mazda6, pricing starts at a slightly higher point compared to the Mazda3. The Mazda6 Sport, which is the base model, has an MSRP of around $24,500, while the high-end Signature trim goes up to about $35,000.
When exploring the value you get with each trim level, pay attention to the standard and optional features available for both the Mazda3 and Mazda6.
Some key factors to consider include performance, fuel efficiency, and technological features that enhance your driving experience.
Technology and Convenience Features
In the Mazda3, you’ll find an 8.8-inch touchscreen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy for you to sync your smartphone and access your favorite apps on the go.
Additionally, you can enjoy crisp sound quality through the car’s premium audio system, which ensures an immersive listening experience while you drive.
The Mazda6, on the other hand, comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This sedan offers a 360-degree view monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and traffic sign recognition, which are only available on the top Signature trim.
These advanced electronics can help enhance your overall driving safety.
For added convenience, both models are equipped with:
- Cruise control
- Power windows
- Power door locks
- Automatic air conditioning
These features make it easy for you to adjust settings and maintain a comfortable temperature inside your vehicle, giving you more time to focus on the road ahead.
Safety and Security
In terms of standard safety equipment, both the Mazda3 and Mazda6 come equipped with multiple airbags to protect occupants in case of a collision.
These airbags include front, side, and curtain airbags, ensuring comprehensive coverage for you and your passengers.
Both models come with advanced driver assistance features, such as lane departure warning systems.
This useful technology alerts you if your vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane, helping you stay focused on the road and maintain a safe driving position.
As for other safety tech, you can expect to find features such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking in both models.
These systems can make your driving experience more convenient and secure by detecting potential obstacles and even applying the brakes if necessary.
Parking sensors can be a tremendously helpful addition, and both the Mazda3 and Mazda6 offer rear parking sensors as an available option.
This feature enables you to confidently maneuver into tight parking spaces by providing you with real-time visual and audio feedback about the distance between your car and any objects behind it.
In summary, here’s a brief rundown of the safety and security features available for the Mazda3 and Mazda6:
- Multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain
- Lane departure warning system
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Available rear parking sensors
Your safety on the road is crucial, and you can rely on both the Mazda3 and Mazda6 to provide you with a range of essential safety features and advanced technologies to keep you protected.
Infotainment and Entertainment
In the Mazda3, you’ll enjoy an 8.8-inch touchscreen display, while the Mazda6 comes with a slightly smaller 8.0-inch touchscreen.
Both models support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone for easy access to music, navigation, and other apps directly on the infotainment screen.
Navigating through unfamiliar territory isn’t a problem for either Mazda3 or Mazda6, as both vehicles can be equipped with an optional navigation system.
This ensures you’ll always find your way, especially during off-the-grid adventures or when your smartphone loses signal.
If you’re an audiophile, you’ll be delighted to know that both Mazda sedans offer available premium sound systems to elevate your driving experience.
The Mazda3 can be outfitted with an optional 12-speaker Bose Premium Audio System, while the Mazda6 offers an 11-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound System. Here’s a quick comparison of the two sound systems:
- Mazda3: 12-speaker Bose Premium Audio System,
- Mazda6: 11-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound System
In terms of infotainment and entertainment capabilities, the Mazda3 and Mazda6 deliver a comfortable and enjoyable ride that caters to your needs.
Outstanding connectivity options, rich-sounding audio systems, and seamless navigation ensure you stay connected and entertained, no matter where your journey takes you.
Comparing the Mazda3 and Mazda6 to Competitors
In this section, we’ll briefly discuss some of the popular rivals to help you make an informed decision.
Audi A3
The Audi A3 is a luxury compact sedan from the renowned German brand. It offers a premium cabin, cutting-edge technology, and engaging driving dynamics.
While the Mazda3 and Mazda6 both exhibit excellent driving dynamics, the A3 brings a more luxurious touch to the table. However, Audi A3 comes at a higher price point, so you’ll need to weigh the benefits against your budget especially when you consider the A3’s worst versions.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic has long been one of the most popular compact sedans on the market, thanks to its reputation for reliability, Civic’s efficiency, and affordability.
It boasts a variety of trim levels, powertrain options, and even a hatchback variant. While the Mazda3 and Mazda6 are known for their driving excitement, the Civic holds its own with a well-rounded package that caters to a wide range of buyers.
Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra is another compact sedan offering solid fuel efficiency, a comfortable ride, and an attractive design.
While the Mazda3 and Mazda6 have been praised for their exterior styling, the Elantra provides a compelling alternative with its newly designed look.
In addition, Hyundai’s comprehensive warranty coverage can be an appealing factor if you prioritize long-term ownership. Here are Elantra’s worst models and issues.
Subaru Impreza
If all-wheel drive is a must-have for you, then the Subaru Impreza reliable models should be on your list.
Both the Mazda3 and Mazda6 focus on front-wheel drive platforms, while the Impreza comes standard with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.
This feature can give you extra peace of mind and confidence when driving in challenging weather conditions.
Toyota Corolla
Finally, the Toyota Corolla represents another legendary name in the compact sedan market, known for its efficiency, reliability, and value.
The Mazda3 and Mazda6 arguably exhibit more engaging driving dynamics, the Corolla focuses on a no-nonsense approach to transportation. As a result, it’s an excellent option for those looking for a practical, dependable daily driver.
