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Mazda 3 vs Mazda 6: Which One’s For You?
Table of Contents
The two vehicles vary primarily in their size, price, and performance. Both vehicles can seat up to five people.
We’ve laid out the primary differences between the two so you can see what’s best for your needs.
Mazda 3 Strengths
The Mazda 3 is smaller, competing in the compact segment. This also makes it the more affordable option between the two with current prices ranging from $25,240 to $40,090.
They’re available in sedan and hatchback styles, and in two different engine types: the entry-level 114kW/200Nm 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder in G20-badged versions; and the top-shelf 139kW/252Nm 2.5-litre four pot of the G25.
Either engine can be equipped with either manual or automatic transmission, with the latter adding $1,000 to the overall cost.
As of writing, the Mazda 3 has a wider selection that makes it attractive to many car enthusiasts.
There are 5 grades available in the Mazda 3 line. The 2.0-litre engine is only available for the Pure, Evolve, and Touring variants while the GT, Astina, and the Evolve can have the 2.5-litre motor.
Pure
The Pure is the standard-equipped version with 16-inch wheels, an 8.0-inch multimedia screen, reversing camera, head-up display, push-button start, blind-spot monitor, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control.
Evolve
Upgrading to the Evolve gives you 18-inch wheels. You also get dual-zone climate control and Mazda’s G-Control Plus.
Touring
On top of the features available for the first two grades, this upgrade gives you keyless entry, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and leather trim.
GT
You get heated seats and steering wheel plus the 12-speaker Bose sound system in this upgrade.
Astina
The Mazda 3 Astina adds unique 18-inch wheels, a surround-view monitor, front parking sensors, a sunroof, and adaptive LED lights, completing the highest-tier of this line.
The Mazda 3 comes in the following colours in Australia:
- Polymetal Grey Metallic.
- Soul Red Metallic.
- Machine Grey Metallic.
- Sonic Silver Metallic.
- Titanium Flash Mica.
- Deep Crystal Blue Mica.
- Jet Black Mica.
- Snowflake White Pearl Mica.
If initial costs and budget is at the forefront, the Mazda 3 is for you. Compact car lovers should opt for the sleek Mazda 3. It’s great for maneuvering around tight roads and parking spots because of its smaller turning radius.
Many driving enthusiasts would love the six-speed manual, which is now only available with the Mazda 3.
Mazda 6 Strengths
The Mazda 6 is bigger between the two, making it a great option if you need that extra storage and a larger passenger car.
It has more front headroom, front and rear shoulder room, rear hip room, rear legroom, and passenger volume. This makes it far more comfortable for both drivers and passengers, especially on longer trips. The cargo volume is at 14.7 cubic feet compared to the Mazda 3’s 13.2 cubic feet. It’s not meant to be extraordinary but it’s definitely nice to have.
In its latest iteration, the top-and-tail keeps it up to date without compromising its classic pretty look. The grille outline makes the new Mazda 6 look wider but also sportier, surely a headturner in any parking lot.
The interior of this version also appears lighter, more coherent than the earlier versions. The only things that remain the same include the steering wheel, the top of the gear selector, and a few switches.
The driver and front-seat passenger can enjoy a pair of cup holders that can be covered when not in use. There is also a fold-down centre armrest also comes with cup holders, a slot to hold a small tablet or a phone, and a small covered tray with a pair of USB ports for convenience.
The Mazda 6 comes in sedan or wagon body style, a choice of either a petrol or diesel engine, and a six-speed automatic transmission that sends all the power to the front wheels.
In China and Japan, the Mazda 6 is also known as the Mazda Atenza.
The new Mazda 6 does exactly what a driver would need - a beautiful and refined car at a good price. However, choosing among the various ranges can get tricky.
Sport
The range starts with the Sport in sedan and wagon with only one engine option. It comes with 17-inch alloys, head-up display, LED headlights, power mirrors, a power window in each door, auto headlights, rain-sensing wipers, six speakers, dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, leather steering wheel and gear shifter, sat nav, push-button start, remote central locking, active cruise control, rear parking sensors, GPS sat nav, DAB radio, trip computer, a safety package including lane assist and a space-saver spare tyre.
For the wagon version, you will get roof rails, an intermittent car swiper, cargo cover, and cargo net.
Touring
Touring allows you to choose between the twin-turbo diesel motors with 140kW and 450Nm. Additionally, you get leather seats, steering wheel, and gear shifter; power heated and folding mirrors, electric front seats, 11 Bose speakers (including a subwoofer) for the infotainment system, smartkey for keyless go and keyless entry, LED daytime running lights, and front and rear parking sensors.
GT
The GT comes with an upgraded 2.5-litre turbo with 170kW and 420Nm. The wheels upgrade to 19-inch alloys, plus you get a choice of white or black leather seats, an adaptive front lighting system, and heated front and rear seats.
Atenza
As the highest tier for the Mazda 6, you can choose between white or walnut Napa leather seats with suede inserts and wood trim. You also get adaptive front LED lights but the diesel versions are slightly more expensive than earlier versions of the Mazda 6.
Eight colors are available for free: Titanium Flash (grey), Deep Crystal Blue, Blue Reflex, Snowflake White, Sonic Silver and Jet Black. On the other hand, the stunning Soul Red and Machine Grey come at a small extra cost. The available colors are rather understated than “out-there” which adds to its luxurious vibe.
Both cars adhere to safety standards placed by Australian authorities, ensuring a worry-free driving experience throughout.