Used Mazda 6 review: 2002-2004

You don't have to go back too far to find the time when Mazda was on its knees and there was speculation about its ability to survive.  However, with newfound zoom in a completely renewed model range, Mazda is enjoying the best of times and its future appears rock solid. The mid-sized Mazda 6 is one of the new models that has given the company renewed credibility in the market. It has pulled buyers through showroom doors in search of one of the best-looking sedans on the market.

MODEL WATCH

Underneath, it sports double-wishbone front suspension with a multi-link independent rear set-up which gives the 6 sporting handling with impressive response, although the ride can be considered hard and a little harsh in a normal four-door.  The 2.3-litre four-cylinder double-overhead camshaft 16-valve engine is a gem. It loves to be revved and it responds with a throaty burst of encouragement.

Mazda offered an extensive range of models with sedan, hatch and wagon body styles in Limited, Classic, Luxury and Sports variants. All were well-equipped, from the entry-level Limited sedan right through to the zippy Sports hatch.

The Limited came with power windows and mirrors, full instrumentation, remote central locking, tilt-adjustable steering wheel, immobiliser, airconditioning, cloth trim and CD sound with four speakers.  Add alloy wheels, trip computer, auto air, velour trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and a CD stacker with six-speaker sound and you had a Classic.

Tick the Luxury box and you also got a sunroof, leather trim, power driver's seat, and Bose premium sound with seven speakers.  The Luxury Sports hatch got all of that plus front fog lamps and fold-flat rear seat.

IN THE SHOP

When buying a nearly new car you should approach it much like you would if you were buying new. The oldest Mazda 6 is now only four years old so you're looking at a car that is really in the prime of its life, barely run in. If it appears neglected walk on; there are plenty more out there to choose from.

Mechanically there is little to go on so far, the majority of complaints about the Mazda6 relate to brake wear which, while high, is no higher than any other modern car. You have to get used to machining discs by 30,000km and replacing them at 50,000-60,000km. Check for a service record, which will become important when you come to sell later on. When test-driving, make sure the engine runs smoothly and pulls without hesitation, the gears change smoothly without any jerking or hesitation and there are no vibrations as the speed increases. Also make sure there is no noise that can't be explained.

CRUNCH TIME

An agile chassis with responsive steering, powerful four-wheel disc brakes with anti-skid control and a zesty engine give the 6 driver every chance of avoiding a collision.

Dual front airbags with seat belt pre-tensioners provide a good level of crash protection in the Limited and Classic models, while the Luxury and Sports models also have side and curtain airbags.

MAZDA6 2002-2004

Agile, responsive handling
Mazdas new-found zoom, zoom
Great engine growl
Sweet-revving engine
Sporty styling

RATING

78/100 Great-looking sports sedan with zip, responsive handling and good re-sale potential.