6 reasons why you should buy a used Mazda6
As far as large sedans go, the Mazda6 has created a fantastic reputation for itself since it arrived locally in the late 90s. In addition to offering a capacious interior, the big saloon from Mazda also has a bullet-proof reliability record. We have come up with six reasons why you should consider purchasing one.
In this article we will be focussing on the third generation Mazda6 model known as the GJ1, which was first introduced to the local market in 2014 before being pulled from the local line-up a few years ago. The local line-up consisted of six models with three engine options.
The 114 kW and 200 N.m 2.0-litre models were sold in basic Active trim with either a six-speed manual or an automatic gearbox as options. Moving up the range was the 2.5-litre petrol engine which produces 138 kW and 250 N.m and was only available with an automatic gearbox although Dynamic and Individual specifications were available. The flagship powertrain in the Mazda6 was the 2.2-litre diesel with 129 kW and 420 N.m with Individual and top-spec Atenza models available.
Related: 5 extras you should retrofit on a used Mazda Mazda6.
Here are 6 reasons why we think that you should consider purchasing a used Mazda6.
It’s safe- In 2013, vehicle safety testing specialists Euro NCAP awarded the Mazda6 a 5-star safety rating. The impressive performance included a 92% score for adult occupants, a 77% score for child occupants, a 66% score for pedestrian safety and 81% for its safety assistance systems.
It’s practical-Measuring 4 865mm long, 1 840 mm wide and 1 450mm high an offering a wheelbase of 2 830mm, the 6 is a large car, only slightly smaller than a new BMW 5 Series. There’s also a 438-litre boot, which can swallow three sets of golf clubs or a pram and baby bag with ease while offering seating for five occupants inside.
It’s reliable- Mazda, as a while scores highly when it comes to reliability indexes and customer satisfaction reviews, globally speaking. In 2020 the Consumer Reports best and worst automotive brands survey, Mazda came out tops in the reliability index while the brand’s tried and tested SkyActiv engine and gearbox line-up has been show to stand the test of time.
They’re cheap- Of the ten used examples of the third-generation Mazda6 models for sale on autotrader.co.za, the most expensive model was R224 700 for a full-specified 2.2 diesel Atenza model with just 46 858km on the clock while the cheapest was a 2.5-litre Dynamic with 79 000km on the clock for R172 000. This makes a used Mazda6 around the same price as a new budget-segment hatchback.
The engine and gearbox options- The beauty of the Mazda6 range is how the various engine and gearbox options suit different applications. The diesel, with its lump of torque and slick auto gearbox makes a great long distance cruiser. The two petrol derivatives provide an ideal mixed driving environment daily driver whether in automatic or manual guise with their instant throttle response and willingness to rev.
Comfort- the Mazda6 offers a supple ride quality combined with great sound insulation and general refinement. The suspension spring and damper rates were developed to offer a softer ride while the anti-roll bar was made slightly stiffer, producing a smooth ride quality and resulting in flat, neutral handling characteristics.
Related: Is the Mazda CX-3 good for families? Here’s our verdict.
We have found three examples, all with different engines and at a similar price on autotrader.co.za:
https://www.autotrader.co.za/car-for-sale/mazda/mazda6/2.5/25401534
https://www.autotrader.co.za/car-for-sale/mazda/mazda6/2.2/25428278
https://www.autotrader.co.za/car-for-sale/mazda/mazda6/2-l/25424270