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2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Simon A | October 5, 2025
The 2003 Mazda MAZDA6, part of the first generation of Mazda's mid-size sedan, arrived with a focus on sporty handling and engaging driving dynamics. Available in sedan, hatchback, and wagon body styles, and key trims like the SVT Sport and Grand Touring, it offered a compelling blend of practicality and performance. Its popularity stemmed from its distinctive styling and its reputation for being more fun to drive than many competitors in its segment.
The Good

The 2003 MAZDA6 shines with its sharp handling and athletic performance, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Its stylish design turns heads, while a comfortable interior and practical body styles cater to everyday needs. For the budget-conscious, its solid value proposition and reasonable efficiency make it a smart, engaging choice.

The Bad

Owners should be aware of potential rust issues, especially in colder climates, affecting the body and undercarriage. Electrical gremlins, particularly with power windows and door locks, can occur. Additionally, some engine components, like the oil pressure sensor, have been noted as potential failure points.

2003 Mazda MAZDA6: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.3L DOHC 16-valve inline-4
    • 3.0L DOHC 24-valve V6 (SVT Sport trim)
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.3L Inline-4: Approximately 160 hp
    • 3.0L V6: Approximately 220 hp
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
    • 2.3L Inline-4 Automatic: Around 21 MPG city / 29 MPG highway
    • 2.3L Inline-4 Manual: Around 22 MPG city / 30 MPG highway
    • 3.0L V6 Automatic: Around 18 MPG city / 26 MPG highway
  • 0-60 Times (Estimated):
    • 2.3L Inline-4: Around 8.5 - 9.5 seconds
    • 3.0L V6: Around 6.8 - 7.5 seconds
  • Towing Capacity:
    The 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 was not typically designed or equipped for significant towing. Towing capacity is generally not a primary specification or capability for this model.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base (often unnamed or similar to SVT): Standard features would include power windows, power locks, air conditioning, CD player, and tilt steering wheel.
    • SVT Sport (Sedan/Hatchback): Featured the more powerful V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, unique body styling elements, leather-trimmed sport seats, fog lights, and premium audio system.
    • Grand Touring (Sedan/Wagon): Typically offered the 2.3L engine with an automatic transmission, leather upholstery, power driver's seat, sunroof, and upgraded interior trim.
    • Hatchback and Wagon Models: Offered enhanced cargo versatility over the sedan, with split-folding rear seats and available roof rails for wagons.

2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2003
Make Mazda
Model MAZDA6
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.9L V6
Engine Size 3.9L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Have?

The 2003 Mazda MAZDA6, while generally considered a good car, has a few common issues that owners and potential buyers should be aware of. One of the most frequently reported problems relates to rust and corrosion, particularly in areas that experience harsh winters and salt on the roads. This can affect the fenders, rocker panels, subframes, and even brake lines, necessitating thorough inspection.

Another area of concern for some owners is the power window and door lock systems. Reports indicate that the motors for these can fail, leading to windows not rolling down or doors not locking/unlocking properly. This can sometimes be related to faulty wiring or switches within the door panels.

The oil pressure sensor is another component that has been noted for premature failure on some 2003 MAZDA6 models. When this sensor malfunctions, it can trigger a false oil pressure warning light, leading owners to believe there's a serious engine problem when it's just a faulty sensor.

While not a widespread epidemic, some vehicles have experienced issues with engine mounts wearing out over time, leading to increased vibration felt in the cabin, especially at idle or during acceleration.

Transmission issues have been mentioned by a minority of owners, particularly with automatic transmissions. These can range from rough shifting to outright failure, though this is less common than the other issues.

Regarding recalls, specific to the 2003 model year, there were recalls related to potential issues with the front passenger airbag inflator and potential issues with the fuel pump. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN to ensure any applicable recalls have been addressed.

Long-term reliability is generally decent if the car has been well-maintained, especially regarding rust prevention. However, the electrical components and some sensor issues are more likely to arise as the vehicle ages.

How long will the 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 last?

Based on owner data and common trends for vehicles of this era, the 2003 Mazda MAZDA6, with consistent and diligent maintenance, can realistically achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report reliable service well into the 100,000-mile mark. The long-term durability of the powertrain, particularly the inline-4 engine, is generally good. However, the primary weaknesses that emerge over time are corrosion, especially in rust-prone regions, and potential issues with electrical components like power windows and sensors. Addressing rust proactively through undercoating and regular washing can significantly extend its lifespan. Despite these potential age-related issues, many MAZDA6 models remain on the road, offering continued value if well-cared for.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 offered a respectable suite of technology and safety features for its time, though it predates many of today's advanced systems.

Entertainment and Tech: Standard equipment typically included an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Higher trims or optional packages could add a premium Bose audio system, providing enhanced sound quality. Auxiliary input jacks were not common in this era, so modern smartphone integration was not a feature. Climate control was usually manual, with automatic climate control being an optional upgrade on some higher trims. Cruise control was a standard feature on most models.

Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance systems in 2003 were very basic. Features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available, and on some models, traction control was an option. Stability control was not widely available on this model. Parking sensors were not a factory option.

Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Side-impact airbags and curtain airbags were often optional or included in higher trim levels and specific packages. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provided crash test ratings for the 2003 MAZDA6. It received four out of five stars for frontal driver and passenger crash protection and four out of five stars for side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the MAZDA6 a **Good** rating in their frontal offset crash test, signifying good performance in that critical area. Seatbelt pretensioners and height-adjustable seatbelts were standard. The vehicle's structure was designed to absorb and dissipate crash energy effectively for its class and time.

What Colors Options are Available?

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2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 had a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) ranging from approximately $17,500 for base models to over $23,000 for top-tier trims like the SVT Sport. As with most vehicles, the MAZDA6 experienced significant depreciation in its first few years. Today, used 2003 MAZDA6 models typically range from $2,000 to $5,000, heavily dependent on mileage, condition, trim level, and maintenance history. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the presence of rust (a major detractor), overall mechanical condition, interior wear and tear, and the availability of service records. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage and no rust can command a premium, while neglected or heavily corroded vehicles will be at the lower end of the spectrum.

2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Cost of Ownership

The 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 is generally considered an economical vehicle to own. Insurance costs tend to be moderate, falling in line with other mainstream mid-size sedans. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the 2.3L engine, offering competitive MPG. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is also affordably priced. Repair costs can vary; while common parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive, addressing issues like transmission problems or significant rust can become costly. Overall, with proper care and attention to potential weak spots like rust, the MAZDA6 offers a low-cost ownership experience, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Recalls & Defects

Exterior Lighting:fog Lights
Recall date 2003-06-05
Recall no. 03v206000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Mini Vans and Passenger Vehicles, THE Socket Holder IN THE FOG Lights IS Installed IN THE Lamp Casing Using Pressure. During Operation OF THE FOG Light, THE Heat From THE Bulb CAN Expand THE Socket Holder. THE Expansion CAN Force THE Socket Holder Rearward. After Repeatedly Being Subject TO This Expansion, IF THE FOG Light IS Also Subjected TO Vibration During Vehicle Operation, THE Socket Holder With THE Bulb Holder and THE Wiring Harness MAY Separate From THE FOG Light Casing.
Consequence Should This Occur, THE Bulb Socket and THE Harness CAN Drop Inside THE Bumper and Possibly BUT Rarely, THE Heat Generated BY THE Bulb CAN Cause THE Bumper TO Burn.
Remedy Dealers Will Install A Spring TO Prevent THE Socket Holder From Separating From THE Lamp Case. Owner Notification Began ON July 14, 2003. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.
Notes Mazda Recall NO. 1103f.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Parking Brake:indicator Light
Recall date 2003-06-05
Recall no. 03v207000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Passenger Vehicles Fail TO Comply With Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 135, "passenger Car Brake Systems." During Production, THE Float IN THE Fluid Level Sensor IN THE Brake Reservoir CAN BE Forced OFF OF THE Guide Rail During THE Filling OF THE Master Cylinder.
Consequence Should This Occur, IT IS Possible That THE Float Will NOT Return TO THE Guide Rail and THE Brake Fluid Level Warning Indicator MAY NOT Function.
Remedy Mazda HAS NOT YET Provided A Remedy FOR This Campaign. Owner Notification Began July 14, 2003. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.
Notes Mazda Recall NO. 1203f.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery
Recall date 2003-12-16
Recall no. 03v531000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, THE Fuel Sender Unit (Fsu) MAY Have Been Improperly Installed IN THE Fuel Tank, Producing AN Inadequate Seal, and Fuel MAY Leak.
Consequence A Fire Could Occur IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Top OF THE Fuel Tank, and IF Necessary, Repair or Replace IT. Owner Notification Began February 9, 2004. Owners Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.
Notes Mazda Recall NO. 1403l.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2009-04-07
Recall no. 09e012000
Source NHTSA
Summary Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment
Recall date 2009-04-02
Recall no. 09e011000
Source NHTSA
Summary Thule, Inc. IS Recalling 2,323 Owner-Installed Roof-Mounted FIT Kits, Models 3068 and 3069, Manufactured Between January 1, 2008 and February 28, 2009 That ARE Used With Thule Podium Foot Packs, Models 460 and 460r. These FIT Kits Were Sold AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Bolt(S) Used TO Secure THE Foot TO THE Vehicle WAS Manufactured TO A Hardness That MAY Cause THE Bolt(S) TO BE Brittle and Potentially Break Under Stress.
Consequence This MAY Result IN THE Bolt(S) Snapping OFF During USE or Without A Load. THE Unsecured Rack and Load CAN Then Come Loose While Driving Creating A Potential Road Hazard, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Thule Will Mail A Retro FIT KIT Along With Repair Instructions TO Owners Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON or Before April 13, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Thule Toll-Free AT 1-800-238-2388.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Thule Aftermarket Roof Mounted Load Carriers and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2009-05-11
Recall no. 09e025000
Source NHTSA
Summary Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2017-07-26
Recall no. 17v474000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2008 Rx-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With A Dual-stage Driver Frontal AIR BAG That MAY BE Susceptible TO Moisture Intrusion and Other Factors, Including Manufacturing Variability That, Over Time, Could Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Remedy IS Performed. Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 12, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 1417g. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 15v-382.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-10-31
Recall no. 19v781000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2005 Mpv, 2004 Rx-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 Vehicles. These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Remedy IS Performed. Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 3, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2618f. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recalls 13v130, 14v362, 14v773 and 15v869.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-06-15
Recall no. 18v402000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 and 2004 MPV Vehicles Nationwide. Mazda IS Also Recalling 2005-2006 MPV Vehicles IN Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands. ON July 9, 2019 This Recall WAS Expanded TO Include Certain 2004-2011 Rx-8 Vehicles That Were Previously Recalled Under 16v-354 BUT Have NOT YET Been Repaired. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Passenger AIR BAG Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Remedy IS Performed. Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 6, 2018. Mailing TO THE Affected Rx-8 Owners Began July 6, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2618f. Note: With THE Addition OF THE Rx-8 Vehicles, This Recall Fully Supersedes Recall 16v354.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Insurance

Insurance for a 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 entered a competitive segment populated by vehicles like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Ford Fusion. In terms of performance, the MAZDA6 often stood out. Its available V6 engine provided spirited acceleration, and its chassis was tuned for sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience than many rivals, which tended to prioritize comfort. The Accord and Camry were known for their smooth ride and competent performance, while the Altima offered a sportier edge as well.

Regarding features, the MAZDA6 offered a good balance for its price point. Higher trims provided leather, premium audio, and sunroofs, comparable to what was offered by the Accord and Camry. However, it generally lacked some of the cutting-edge technology or advanced safety features that were beginning to appear in luxury brands or become optional on more premium trims of competitors.

Reliability is where the MAZDA6 faces a mixed bag compared to its Japanese rivals. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry have long-standing reputations for bulletproof reliability and longevity, often exceeding the MAZDA6's average lifespan, especially concerning susceptibility to rust. While the MAZDA6 powertrain is generally robust, its higher propensity for corrosion and occasional electrical gremlins put it slightly behind the industry leaders in long-term dependability.

In terms of price, the MAZDA6 was typically positioned competitively, offering good value for its sporty characteristics. It was often priced similarly to the Accord and Camry, sometimes slightly less for comparable trims.

Recommendations:
  • Similar Alternatives: If the sporty driving dynamics of the MAZDA6 appeal, but you desire slightly better reliability and rust resistance, the Honda Accord (especially models from the same era) is an excellent choice. The Nissan Altima also offers a sporty alternative.
  • Better Alternatives (for reliability): If ultimate reliability and longevity are the top priorities, the Toyota Camry is the benchmark. It may sacrifice some driving excitement but offers peace of mind.
  • Consider if: You prioritize a more engaging driving experience over absolute long-term reliability and are willing to diligently check for rust and perform necessary maintenance. The SVT Sport trim is particularly appealing for enthusiasts.

Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 a Good Wagon?

The 2003 Mazda MAZDA6 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize an engaging driving experience and distinctive styling over absolute long-term bulletproof reliability. It's worth buying if you find a well-maintained example, especially if it has been garage-kept or lives in a non-rust-prone climate.

It is particularly recommended for younger drivers or those looking for a second car that still offers some driving fun without breaking the bank. The SVT Sport trim is a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking more performance. When buying used, a thorough inspection for rust, especially on the undercarriage and body panels, is paramount. Look for models with a documented maintenance history. While not as historically reliable as a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, a well-cared-for MAZDA6 can still provide years of enjoyable service if you're aware of its potential weaknesses.

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.