2008 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. Its Competition

2008 Mazda MAZDA6 4-door Sedan Man i Sport Angular Front Exterior View

Meta Rating 7.4 out of 10

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Marty Padgett

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Marty Padgett is High Gear Media's Editorial Director, overseeing the words that skim across High Gear Media's portfolio of automotive destinations... More

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Jul 6, 2008

The Ford Fusion, which is loosely based on the Mazda6 and shares some components, is also a lot of fun to drive, but it feels more contemporary than the 2008 Mazda6 with more aggressive, upright styling and options that include the SYNC communications and entertainment interface.

The Fusion also has a roomier backseat than the Mazda6, though it's still not best-in-class for space.

Then there's the Altima, which is somewhat cramped in back but is considerably larger--about the size of the Camry, Accord, and Malibu--on the outside.

Like the Mazda6, the Altima favors a sporty feel at the slight expense of ride comfort.

Sized more closely to the Altima is the Volkswagen Passat, which in base 2.0T form is quite quick yet more fuel-efficient than the Mazda6.

It also has a more spacious backseat, with increased legroom throughout for taller folks.

The Subaru Legacy might also be a competitor to the Mazda6; it's about the same size as the Mazda and rides firmly, favoring handling, but it has standard all-wheel drive.

2008 Mazda MAZDA6 Browse Used Listings	2008 Nissan Altima Browse Used Listings	2003 Volkswagen Passat Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
7.4 The 2008 Mazda6 lags behind the competition in terms of space and practicality, but it’s still among the most fun-to-drive affordable sedans.	8.4 The 2008 Nissan Altima is a little sportier, though not less sensible.	N/A
MSRP From
$19,140	$18,620	$21,750
Gas Mileage
17 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy	17 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy
Engine
Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4
EPA Class
Midsize	Midsize	Mid-Size
Style Name
4dr Sedan Man i Sport	4dr Sedan I4 Man 2.5	4dr Sedan GL Manual
Drivetrain
Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
5	5	5
Passenger Doors
N/A	N/A	N/A
Body Style
4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sdn
Transmission
Manual w/OD	Manual w/OD	Manual w/OD