2003 Mazda 6 S review from North America
"First sedan in years (replaced an aging S.U.V.), and no regrets at all (so far)"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Back seat base CAME LOOSE while my son (and his child seat) was in it! JUST a bit terrifying. Fixed at dealer at no charge - only took 5 minutes. Still left me a bit shook up, though.
Rear brakes make a bit of a grinding sound during heavy braking. Dealer attributes this to ABS, and says it's completely normal. While the ABS isn't "jerky" like that of some cars, I can really hear the ABS modulation in the rear. Front braking is as smooth as glass.
General comments?
This is a GREAT-feeling car. Feels as tight as a drum. Plenty of power, smooth trans, very fun in the "manumatic" mode. It feels as though the tires are glued to the ground. This car just begs to play out in the twisties. A true joy to drive.
The interior is very comfortable, and the gauges and dials are right where they need to be. Excellent climate control system. Great seats. Stereo system could be a *tad* better, but it's much better than other stock systems I've had.
I know it's the car's first production year, so I'm mindful of any new rattles, squeaks, etc. so far - not a problem at all.
But just to be safe - I got the "everything" warranty. :-)
Recommended reviews
| I would NEVER recommend this car to anyone, ever |
|
| I really do not think this car is a good investment |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0-liter V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 108 miles |
| Most recent distance | 1100 miles |
| Previous car | Mitsubishi Montero |
| Date of Entry | 7th March, 2003 |