Mazda 6 (2002-) Review

Running Costs

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These are yet to be proven; the biggest question-mark will be over the 6's depreciation (loss in value). The 6 also produces relatively high levels of carbon dioxide, which determines the rate of company car tax levied, and none of the variants is notably fuel-efficient (there's very little difference between the consumption of the 1.8 and 2.0 petrols, or indeed, between the 120 bhp and 136 bhp diesels). Mazdas are usually average to service and maintain, though can be relatively expensive to insure. Given that depreciation may well be higher than average, at least until Mazda has a more upmarket image again, the 6 could make an excellent-value used buy. It should be sought-after by both families and business users such as mini-cabbers, given its predicted longevity; prices at main dealers' will probably be high, but privately-sold cars will make good purchases. The 6 isn't the cheapest car in the class, but it is competitive for a car of this quality. Audio equipment aside, it is also generously equipped and well-finished, and a little bit different, if not completely exclusive or prestigious. There's not as much scope for choosing different variants or specifications as in other larger ranges, though, and the diesel models are not particularly appealing - the 6 is better in petrol form. A black mark on the paint, so to speak; metallic paint is only standard on the Sport model, and costs extra on all others.