2011 Mazda 6 Review: Price, Specs, and More

2011 Mazda 6
Pros
  • Spacious cabin and trunk
  • Lively handling
  • Sporty styling
Cons
  • The somewhat underpowered base engine
  • A few cheap interior materials
  • Low safety scores for the class

2011 Mazda 6 Review – The Mazda 6, introduced in 2011, is notable for elevating excitement into a subcategory that is often considered bland and practical.

Mazda 6’s best attributes, according to reviewers, are its athletic handling and attractive performance, in addition to its sporty design.

Its large cabin and large trunk, which are suitable for people who need a large used vehicle, are also popular with them.

The Mazda 6 is a decent car, but it has some flaws that prevent it from being the best in its class.

The base four-cylinder engine’s power and V6 models, which are powerful but don’t get the best fuel economy figures in the class, were a little vexing when it was first introduced.

When contrasted to materials used in higher-ranking midsize automobiles, some reviewers noted that the Mazda 6’s materials were inferior.

The 2011 Mazda 6 fuel economy estimates are comparable to those of its rivals, with up to 22/31 mpg city/highway. For the class, its safety ratings are somewhat low.

What’s New for the 2011 Mazda 6?

2011 Mazda 6 Review
2011 Mazda 6 Review

For 2011, the Mazda 6 gets a few upgrades. The side view mirrors of the Touring Plus and Grand Touring variants now include integrated turn signals, while the headlights and foglights have been redesigned.

Mazda has removed the base SV trim level and the manual gearbox is no longer available for the Touring trim.

The fuel economy of automatic transmission-equipped vehicles increases by around 5%. There have also been some changes to the trim levels.

Pricing, and Trim Levels

2011 Mazda 6 i Sport

  • Transmission: Automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive
  • MPG: 22 City | 31 Hwy
  • Engine: Gas I4 2.5L/152
  • MSRP: $20,990

2011 Mazda 6 Touring

  • Transmission: Automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive
  • MPG: 22 City | 31 Hwy
  • Engine: Gas I4 2.5L/152
  • MSRP: $22,635

2011 Mazda 6 Touring Plus

  • Transmission: Automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive
  • MPG: 22 City | 31 Hwy
  • Engine: Gas I4 2.5L/152
  • MSRP: $24,240

2011 Mazda 6 Grand Touring

  • Transmission: Automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive
  • MPG: 22 City | 31 Hwy
  • Engine: Gas I4 2.5L/152
  • MSRP: $26,820

Why Should You Buy One?

The 2011 Mazda 6 is a great value. It offers features and fuel economy that are above average for its class, while still maintaining a sleek design. Its available trims offer a range of options to suit your needs and driving style.

Read also: What Are the New Mazda Car Models?

Engine Performance

The 2011 Mazda 6 variants are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque.

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on the Sport. A five-speed automatic with manual shift control is the only option available on Touring, Touring Plus, and Grand Touring vehicles.

The Mazda 6 s model is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 272 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque and is only available with a six-speed automatic.

According to the testing, a V6 variant achieved 60 mph from a standstill in 6.5 seconds, while the four-cylinder automatic took 9.1 seconds.

Fuel Economy

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the four-cylinder Sport with a five-speed manual gets 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.

The V6-powered Mazda 6 Sport achieves 18/27/21 mpg, which is typical for this class, while the automatic-equipped Mazda 6s achieves 22/31/25 mpg.

Interior, and Comfort

2011 Mazda 6 Interior
2011 Mazda 6 Interior

The interior of the 2011 Mazda 6 is pleasant and innovative in concept. From the top of the dash to the center console, a gracefully sweeping center stack arches. However, some of the features are more difficult to use than those of its rivals.

The spacious backseat (even for 6-footers) is a definite plus, and red electroluminescent gauges add to the visual appeal.

All seats have enough legroom and headroom, however, the large front seats might lack lateral support for smaller passengers.

Despite the Mazda 6’s good looks, the cabin is littered with cheaper plastic materials. The black-and-silver patterned embellishments on the higher trim levels may be an acquired taste for some.

The underperforming standard audio system loses even more points, and some listeners may be disappointed by the upgraded Bose system.

On the plus side, the Mazda 6’s 60/40 split-folding rear seats and unobtrusive hinge mechanisms enhance cargo-hauling abilities, and the vehicle’s 16.6 cubic-foot trunk is one of the biggest in its class.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2011 Mazda 6 features a user-friendly infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The audio system is also high-quality, with a sound that fills the cabin nicely. Connectivity options are extensive for this class, including satellite radio and a wide range of USB ports.

Read also: Mazda SUV Models List

Safety

All 2011 Mazda 6 automobiles come equipped with anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.

During testing, both the i and s Grand Touring models came to a complete stop within 125 feet at 60 mph.

The government’s updated, more rigorous 2011 crash testing procedures have not been used to rate the Mazda 6.

The frontal and side-impact protection ratings for all occupants were rated perfect in 2010 (which isn’t comparable to 2011 tests).

The Mazda 6 received a “Good” rating for frontal-offset and side impacts, while roof strength testing yielded a second-best “Acceptable” rating, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Read also: Mazda 6 Key FOB Battery

Warranty

For vehicles six years old or younger with fewer than 80,000 miles, Mazda provides a certified pre-owned program.

The vehicle’s first sale date determines eligibility. Mazda offers a one-year/12,000-mile limited warranty after the expiry of the original three-year/36,000-mile warranty.

The original restricted powertrain warranty is extended to seven years from the original sale date or 100,000 miles. Every CPO Mazda must pass a 160-point inspection.

Other advantages that may be included include towing, a 90-day complimentary SiriusXM satellite radio trial subscription, longer coverage, and 24-hour roadside assistance. Read the Mazda warranty page for more information.

Third Generation Mazda 6 Sedan Production Year:

Mazda 6 2023Mazda 6 2019Mazda 6 2015Mazda 6 2010Mazda 6 2006
Mazda 6 2022Mazda 6 2018Mazda 6 2014Mazda 6 2009Mazda 6 2005
Mazda 6 2021Mazda 6 2017Mazda 6 2013Mazda 6 2008Mazda 6 2004
Mazda 6 2020Mazda 6 2016Mazda 6 2012Mazda 6 2007Mazda 6 2003

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the 2011 Mazda6 a good car?

The Mazda 6 is a good car, but it has a few flaws that keep it from being a great one in its class. The base four-cylinder engine’s power and V6 models, while powerful, don’t get the greatest fuel economy ratings in the class, which test drivers were disappointed with when it was new.

What are the main problems with Mazda 6?

The most common Mazda 6 problems are listed below, based on the Mazda 6-year models:

  • Noises Caused by Transmission.
  • Abnormal Ticking Sound from the Engine.
  • Overheating Engine.
  • Problematic Exterior Lighting.
  • Unstable Speed Control.
  • Idling Issues.
  • Crankshaft or Cam Position Sensor Issues.

Are Mazda 6 cars reliable?

Is the Mazda6 Reliable? The 2021 Mazda 6 has a predicted reliability score of 83 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Is Mazda 6 Made in Japan?

Where Is Mazda 6 Made? The Mazda 6 is only manufactured at the Hofu plant in Yamaguchi, Japan. The Mazda 6 was previously constructed at AutoAlliance International’s Flat Rock, Michigan site for the North American market. After the Mazda 6 2021 model year, the Mazda 6 will be phased out in the US and Canada.

Specifications

2011 Mazda 6 i Sport
Base MSRPEngine
$19,990Inline 4 cylinder
Horsepower: 170 hp @ 6000 rpm
MPG & FuelTorque: 167 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
21 City / 30 Hwy / 24 Combined
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gal. capacityBasic Warranty
3 yr./ 36000 mi.
Seating
5 seatsDimensions
Length: 193.7 in. / Height: 57.9 in.
DrivetrainOverall Width Without Mirrors: 72.4 in.
Type: Front Wheel DriveCurb Weight: 3272 lbs.
Transmission: 6-speed manualCargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 16.6 cu.ft.

Final Verdict

The 2011 Mazda 6 is a popular sedan for those looking for a fuel-efficient and spacious ride.

With three generations of cars on the market, there’s bound to be something for everyone.

The latest model has minor updates that make it even more desirable, like longer coverage and roadside assistance.

If you’re looking for a car that’s comfortable, reliable, and fun to drive, the Mazda 6 2011 is definitely worth considering.