The 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 is a midsize sedan that was part of the second generation, produced from 2002 to 2015. It stood out for its engaging driving dynamics and sporty styling in a segment often prioritizing comfort over engagement. Key trims included the Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. While pricing varied by trim and options, it generally offered a compelling value proposition. Its popularity stemmed from its ability to deliver a more exhilarating driving experience than many rivals, appealing to those who appreciate a well-balanced and fun-to-drive sedan.
The Good
The 2011 MAZDA6 impresses with its sharp handling and responsive steering for an emotional connection, coupled with a comfortable ride for practical daily driving. Its stylish exterior and well-appointed interior appeal to aesthetics, while good fuel economy and solid reliability make it a smart, value-conscious choice.
The Bad
Potential buyers of the 2011 MAZDA6 should be aware of some common issues. These can include complaints about the automatic transmission's behavior, some interior material durability, and potential for rust in certain climates. Checking for these specific areas during inspection is advised.
2011 Mazda MAZDA6: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 offered two primary engine options in North America:
- 2.5L Inline-4 Cylinder Engine: Standard on most trims.
Horsepower: Approximately 170 hp @ 6,000 rpm.
Torque: Approximately 167 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm.
Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated): Around 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway for automatic transmission and 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway for manual transmission.
0-60 Times: Approximately 7.9 - 8.5 seconds.
- 3.7L V6 Engine: Available on higher trims like the Grand Touring.
Horsepower: Approximately 272 hp @ 6,250 rpm.
Torque: Approximately 270 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm.
Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated): Around 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway.
0-60 Times: Approximately 6.2 - 6.6 seconds.
- 2.5L Inline-4 Cylinder Engine: Standard on most trims.
- Towing Capacity: Not a primary focus for this vehicle; typically not rated for significant towing. Owner's manuals would specify if any light towing is permissible, but it's generally not recommended or advertised.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: Typically includes power windows, locks, and mirrors; air conditioning; cruise control; a tilt/telescoping steering wheel; 6-speaker audio system with CD player and auxiliary input; 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers.
- Touring: Adds alloy wheels (often 17-inch), premium cloth upholstery, a power driver's seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Bluetooth connectivity, and an upgraded audio system with a color display.
- Grand Touring: Further enhances with leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, a power moonroof, automatic climate control, fog lights, and often the more powerful V6 engine option.
- Sport: Typically includes power windows, locks, and mirrors; air conditioning; cruise control; a tilt/telescoping steering wheel; 6-speaker audio system with CD player and auxiliary input; 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers.
2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2011 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | MAZDA6 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Passenger Sedan |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FLAT ROCK |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5 4 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Have?
The 2011 Mazda MAZDA6, while generally considered a reliable vehicle, does have some frequently reported issues that owners and prospective buyers should be aware of. One of the more common complaints revolves around the automatic transmission. Some owners have reported instances of the transmission hesitating, feeling sluggish, or experiencing hard shifts. This can sometimes be related to fluid levels or internal component wear. While not a universal problem, it's something to investigate if test driving a vehicle with an automatic.
Another area of concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters or high humidity, is the potential for rust. The undercarriage and wheel wells are common spots where corrosion can begin to form. Regular washing and undercoating can help mitigate this, but it's a good idea to thoroughly inspect the vehicle's body and chassis for any signs of significant rust, especially on older models.
Interior components have also seen some reports of premature wear. This can include the driver's seat bolsters showing signs of fatigue, or the plastic trim pieces becoming scuffed or discolored over time. While these are often cosmetic and don't affect drivability, they can detract from the overall appeal of the car.
Regarding recalls, it's always prudent to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or Mazda's official recall database for any outstanding recalls specific to the 2011 MAZDA6. Recalls can address a wide range of issues, from safety-critical components like airbags or braking systems to less severe, but still important, electrical or software glitches. While specific recalls for the 2011 model year might be limited, it's a good practice to ensure all safety-related campaigns have been addressed.
In terms of long-term reliability, the MAZDA6 tends to hold up reasonably well if properly maintained. The inline-four engine is generally robust, and the chassis is well-engineered for longevity. However, like any vehicle, neglecting routine maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks will inevitably lead to accelerated wear and potential problems down the line. Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule is key to ensuring the 2011 MAZDA6 remains a dependable daily driver for many years.
Another area of concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters or high humidity, is the potential for rust. The undercarriage and wheel wells are common spots where corrosion can begin to form. Regular washing and undercoating can help mitigate this, but it's a good idea to thoroughly inspect the vehicle's body and chassis for any signs of significant rust, especially on older models.
Interior components have also seen some reports of premature wear. This can include the driver's seat bolsters showing signs of fatigue, or the plastic trim pieces becoming scuffed or discolored over time. While these are often cosmetic and don't affect drivability, they can detract from the overall appeal of the car.
Regarding recalls, it's always prudent to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or Mazda's official recall database for any outstanding recalls specific to the 2011 MAZDA6. Recalls can address a wide range of issues, from safety-critical components like airbags or braking systems to less severe, but still important, electrical or software glitches. While specific recalls for the 2011 model year might be limited, it's a good practice to ensure all safety-related campaigns have been addressed.
In terms of long-term reliability, the MAZDA6 tends to hold up reasonably well if properly maintained. The inline-four engine is generally robust, and the chassis is well-engineered for longevity. However, like any vehicle, neglecting routine maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks will inevitably lead to accelerated wear and potential problems down the line. Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule is key to ensuring the 2011 MAZDA6 remains a dependable daily driver for many years.
How long will the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 last?
Based on owner data and maintenance habits, the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 can reasonably be expected to last for an average of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or approximately 10 to 15 years of service, before major component failures become likely. With diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely replacement of wear items like brakes and tires, many owners report their MAZDA6 continuing to perform reliably well beyond these figures. The engine and transmission are generally durable, but potential weaknesses over time include increased susceptibility to rust in corrosive environments, and occasional transmission quirks. As the vehicle ages, suspension components may also require attention. Overall, its long-term durability is good, especially when cared for.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 offered a respectable suite of technology, entertainment, and safety features for its class and model year. Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM/CD audio system with an auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external music players. Higher trims, such as the Touring and Grand Touring, often included a more advanced audio system, sometimes with SiriusXM satellite radio capability, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
In terms of technology, a key feature on select trims was the availability of a navigation system, though this was often an optional upgrade. The infotainment interface was generally user-friendly, focusing on essential functions without overwhelming complexity. Climate control was usually manual on lower trims, with automatic climate control becoming standard on the top-tier Grand Touring model.
Driver-assistance features were more limited by today's standards. The 2011 MAZDA6 did not typically offer advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or automatic emergency braking. However, standard safety features were robust for the time, including front-seat airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were also standard across all trims, providing crucial active safety for the driver.
Optional features that enhanced comfort and convenience often included a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, a power moonroof, and fog lights. Keyless entry and ignition were also available on higher trims.
In terms of safety ratings, the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 generally performed well in crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded it with a "Good" rating in its frontal offset and side impact tests, signifying strong occupant protection. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also provided favorable ratings, often achieving four out of five stars in their overall safety assessment, reflecting its solid structural integrity and effective airbag deployment.
In terms of technology, a key feature on select trims was the availability of a navigation system, though this was often an optional upgrade. The infotainment interface was generally user-friendly, focusing on essential functions without overwhelming complexity. Climate control was usually manual on lower trims, with automatic climate control becoming standard on the top-tier Grand Touring model.
Driver-assistance features were more limited by today's standards. The 2011 MAZDA6 did not typically offer advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or automatic emergency braking. However, standard safety features were robust for the time, including front-seat airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were also standard across all trims, providing crucial active safety for the driver.
Optional features that enhanced comfort and convenience often included a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, a power moonroof, and fog lights. Keyless entry and ignition were also available on higher trims.
In terms of safety ratings, the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 generally performed well in crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded it with a "Good" rating in its frontal offset and side impact tests, signifying strong occupant protection. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also provided favorable ratings, often achieving four out of five stars in their overall safety assessment, reflecting its solid structural integrity and effective airbag deployment.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 had an original MSRP that typically ranged from around $20,000 for the base Sport model to upwards of $28,000 for a well-equipped Grand Touring with the V6 engine. Today, the used market prices for a 2011 MAZDA6 vary significantly based on mileage, condition, trim level, and location. You can generally find them for sale in the range of $5,000 to $10,000. The MAZDA6, like most sedans of its era, has experienced considerable depreciation. Factors affecting its resale value include its sporty driving characteristics, which appeal to enthusiasts, but also the availability of newer, more feature-rich competitors and potential known issues like transmission reliability. A well-maintained vehicle with lower mileage and desirable options will command a higher price, while those with higher mileage or signs of wear will be at the lower end of the spectrum.
2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Cost of Ownership
The 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate, falling in line with other midsize sedans, though this varies based on driver history and location. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the four-cylinder engine achieving good MPG. Maintenance costs are also average, with routine services like oil changes and tire rotations being standard. Repair costs can be somewhat higher than some Japanese competitors, particularly if specific transmission or electronic issues arise, but are generally not prohibitive. Overall, the MAZDA6 offers a balanced ownership experience, leaning towards cost-effective rather than expensive.
2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
-
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Recalls & Defects
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date
2013-09-24
Recall no.
13v425000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mazda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2013 Mazda6 Vehicles Manufactured February 4, 2008, Through August 24, 2012. THE Door Latch Mounting Screws MAY Become Loose.
Consequence
IF All Three Door Latch Mounting Screws Become Excessively Loose THE Door Latch Mechanism Would NOT Engage and THE Door Might Open While THE Vehicle IS IN Motion Increasing THE Risk OF Accident or Injury.
Remedy
Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Apply A Thread Locking Adhesive TO THE Door Screws and Retorque Them, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 29, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's Recall Number IS 7013i.
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.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date
2014-03-11
Recall no.
14v114000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2012 Mazda6 Vehicles Manufactured September 14, 2009, Through MAY 2, 2011, and Equipped With 2.5l Engine. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Spiders MAY Weave A WEB IN THE Evaporative Canister Vent Hose, Blocking IT and Causing THE Fuel Tank TO Have AN Excessive Amount OF Negative Pressure.
Consequence
Negative Pressure Could Cause THE Fuel Tank TO Crack Resulting IN A Fuel Leak, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Powertrain Control Module and Inspect and Clean THE Canister Vent Line. IF A WEB WAS Found IN THE Line, THE Fuel Tank and Check Valve ON Canister Vent Line Will BE Replaced. These Repairs Will BE Done Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 30, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's Recall Number Associated With This Campaign IS 7214c.
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
2017-06-29
Recall no.
17v429000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2011 Mazda6, and 2007-2011 Cx-7 and Cx-9 Vehicles. 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 Front AIR Bags, These Inflators MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle 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 Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 30, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 1317f. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 16v356 and All Vehicles That Were NOT Remedied Under That Campaign ARE NOW Covered BY This One.
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
2018-10-12
Recall no.
18v717000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2014-2015 Mazda Cx-9 Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." Additionally, Unless Covered IN "zone A," Mazda IS Recalling Certain 2011-2013 Mazda6, 2011-2012 Cx-7, and 2011-2015 Cx-9 Sold, or Ever Registered IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and THE District OF Columbia, or "zone B." Additionally, Unless Covered IN Zone A or Zone B, Mazda IS Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Mazda6, 2010-2012 Cx-7, and 2010-2015 Cx-9 Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These 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
Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began November 9, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 1317f.
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.
19v782000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2007-2012 Cx-7, Cx-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 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 Repair HAS Been 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 1317f. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recalls 16v356 and 17v012.
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.
Suspension:front:control ARM
Recall date
2019-04-25
Recall no.
19v323000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2013 Mazda6 Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland,massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. THE Front Cross Member MAY Corrode After Exposure TO Road Salt.
Consequence
Corrosion MAY Weaken THE Mounting Point FOR THE Passenger Side Lower Control Arm, Unexpectedly Changing THE Steering Alignment and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Cross Member and Either Install A Side Member and Drain Hose and Apply WAX TO Protect From Rust, or Install A Drain Hose and AN Improved Front Cross Member, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 13, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2818i. Note: This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Recall 18v-631.
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.
Structure
Recall date
2019-04-25
Recall no.
19v323000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2013 Mazda6 Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland,massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. THE Front Cross Member MAY Corrode After Exposure TO Road Salt.
Consequence
Corrosion MAY Weaken THE Mounting Point FOR THE Passenger Side Lower Control Arm, Unexpectedly Changing THE Steering Alignment and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Cross Member and Either Install A Side Member and Drain Hose and Apply WAX TO Protect From Rust, or Install A Drain Hose and AN Improved Front Cross Member, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 13, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2818i. Note: This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Recall 18v-631.
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.
2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Insurance
Insurance for a 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Passenger Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?
The 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 competed in the crowded midsize sedan segment against strong rivals like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Altima. In terms of performance, the MAZDA6 often stood out with its more engaging and sporty handling, particularly with the available V6 engine, offering a more driver-focused experience than the typically softer Camry or even the Accord. The Accord, however, often offered a slightly more refined ride and a well-balanced package.
When it comes to features, the 2011 MAZDA6 offered a competitive array, with higher trims boasting amenities like leather upholstery, navigation, and Bluetooth. However, some rivals, like the Accord and Altima, might have offered slightly more cutting-edge technology or a broader range of available driver-assistance features for the model year. Toyota Camry typically focused on practicality and comfort, with a simpler, though reliable, feature set.
Reliability is a key battleground. The Toyota Camry and Honda Accord are legendary for their bulletproof reliability and low long-term ownership costs. While the MAZDA6 is generally reliable, it has faced more frequent reports of transmission issues and some interior wear compared to its Japanese counterparts. This can make the Camry and Accord safer bets for those prioritizing absolute dependability above all else.
Price-wise, the MAZDA6 was often positioned competitively, sometimes offering a bit more power for the money, especially with the V6. However, its lower resale value compared to the Accord and Camry can be a factor to consider.
Alternatives:
When it comes to features, the 2011 MAZDA6 offered a competitive array, with higher trims boasting amenities like leather upholstery, navigation, and Bluetooth. However, some rivals, like the Accord and Altima, might have offered slightly more cutting-edge technology or a broader range of available driver-assistance features for the model year. Toyota Camry typically focused on practicality and comfort, with a simpler, though reliable, feature set.
Reliability is a key battleground. The Toyota Camry and Honda Accord are legendary for their bulletproof reliability and low long-term ownership costs. While the MAZDA6 is generally reliable, it has faced more frequent reports of transmission issues and some interior wear compared to its Japanese counterparts. This can make the Camry and Accord safer bets for those prioritizing absolute dependability above all else.
Price-wise, the MAZDA6 was often positioned competitively, sometimes offering a bit more power for the money, especially with the V6. However, its lower resale value compared to the Accord and Camry can be a factor to consider.
Alternatives:
- Honda Accord (2011-2013): A superb all-rounder offering excellent reliability, good performance, and a refined driving experience. It's often considered the benchmark in this class.
- Toyota Camry (2011-2013): If ultimate reliability and comfort are paramount, the Camry is a strong choice, though it sacrifices some driving engagement.
- Nissan Altima (2011-2013): Competes well with the MAZDA6 in terms of performance and features, offering a comfortable ride and a potent V6 option. Reliability is generally good, though perhaps not quite at Honda or Toyota levels.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 a Good Passenger Sedan?
The 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 is ideal for buyers who prioritize a more engaging driving experience in a practical midsize sedan package. It's worth buying for those who appreciate sharp handling and responsive steering, especially if they can find a well-maintained example. It is best considered as a used car purchase, as buying new in 2011 would have meant facing significant depreciation. Buyers should strongly consider the 2.5L four-cylinder engine for better fuel economy and generally more reliable performance, though the V6 offers exhilarating acceleration for enthusiasts. Careful inspection for transmission issues and rust is crucial. If you value driving fun and can find one with a solid maintenance history, the 2011 MAZDA6 offers excellent value and a rewarding ownership experience, particularly compared to more appliance-like rivals.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma