Skip to Content

Mazda 3 vs Mazda 6: A Detailed Comparison of Safety Features, Price, and Value

Mazda 3 vs Mazda 6: A Detailed Comparison of Safety Features, Price, and Value

Looking to buy a new car? Mazda has got you covered with its impressive lineup of vehicles. Two popular options in their range are the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6. While both models offer exceptional performance and stylish designs, there are some key differences that set them apart. In this article, I’ll walk you through the main distinctions between the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6, helping you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing your next ride.

The Mazda 3 is a compact car that packs a punch. With its sleek and sporty exterior, it’s perfect for those who value style and agility. On the other hand, the Mazda 6 is a midsize sedan that offers a bit more space and comfort, making it an ideal choice for families or those who prioritize a smooth and comfortable ride. From their size to their performance capabilities, I’ll delve into all the factors that differentiate these two Mazda models, so you can determine which one suits your needs and preferences best. So, let’s dive in and explore the differences between the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6.

Key Takeaways

  • The Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 are two popular car models from Mazda, each with its own unique features and advantages.
  • Size Comparison: The Mazda 3 is a compact car that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the Mazda 6 is a midsize sedan that offers more space and comfort.
  • Exterior Design: The Mazda 3 has a sleek and sporty exterior design, perfect for those who value style and agility. The Mazda 6, on the other hand, has a more refined and elegant appearance, appealing to those seeking sophistication.
  • Interior Space: Both the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 offer comfortable seating arrangements, but the Mazda 6 provides more legroom and headroom, making it a better choice for families or those in need of extra space. The Mazda 6 also offers premium touches and a more luxurious feel.
  • Performance and Engine Options: The Mazda 6 offers more power and performance with its engine options, while the Mazda 3 focuses on agility and a peppy driving experience.
  • Safety Features: Both the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 come equipped with advanced safety features, ensuring a secure driving experience.
  • Price and Value: The Mazda 3 has a more affordable starting price and a reputation for retaining its value, while the Mazda 6 offers a more luxurious driving experience worth the investment.

Size Comparison

When it comes to size, the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 clearly fall into different categories. Let’s take a closer look at how these two models compare in terms of their dimensions:

Mazda 3:

  • Overall Length: The Mazda 3 measures around 180 inches in length, making it a compact car that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
  • Width: With a width of approximately 70 inches, the Mazda 3 is narrower than its larger sibling, the Mazda 6.
  • Wheelbase: The wheelbase of the Mazda 3 is around 107 inches, which contributes to its agility and responsive handling.
  • Interior Space: While the Mazda 3 may be compact in size, it still offers a comfortable seating capacity for up to five passengers.
  • Overall Length: The Mazda 6 is a midsize sedan that is longer than the Mazda 3, with a length of about 191 inches. This extra length translates to a more spacious interior and generous legroom.
  • Width: With a width of approximately 72 inches, the Mazda 6 provides more shoulder room for both front and rear passengers.
  • Wheelbase: The wheelbase of the Mazda 6 is approximately 111 inches, which contributes to its smooth and stable ride.
  • Interior Space: The Mazda 6 offers ample room for passengers to stretch out and relax during long drives, making it an ideal choice for families or those seeking a comfortable ride.

While both the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 offer their own unique advantages, there is a noticeable difference in size. The Mazda 3 is a compact car that excels in agility and style, while the Mazda 6 is a midsize sedan that prioritizes comfort and interior space. Consider your personal preferences and needs to determine which model is the best fit for you.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of a car plays a crucial role in attracting potential buyers and making a lasting impression. When it comes to the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6, both models showcase Mazda’s signature KODO design philosophy, which focuses on creating a sense of motion and elegance.

The Mazda 3 boasts a sleek and sporty exterior, with flowing lines and a dynamic profile that exudes a sense of agility. Its bold grille, slim headlights, and sculpted body panels contribute to its aerodynamic and eye-catching appearance. Whether you’re driving through city streets or cruising on the highway, the Mazda 3 is sure to turn heads.

On the other hand, the Mazda 6 is a midsize sedan that offers a more refined and sophisticated exterior design. With its high-quality finishes, refined details, and graceful curves, the Mazda 6 exudes a sense of elegance and luxury. Its prominent grille, stylish headlights, and chrome accents give it a commanding and distinguished presence on the road.

While both the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 display a distinct visual identity, they cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a sporty and agile look, the Mazda 3’s sleek and dynamic design might be your best bet. However, if you prefer a more refined and elegant appearance, the Mazda 6’s sophisticated styling would likely appeal to you.

The exterior design of the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 reflects their respective personalities. The Mazda 3’s sporty and dynamic design is perfect for those who value style and agility, while the Mazda 6’s refined and elegant exterior design is suited for individuals seeking a more sophisticated and luxurious look. When making your decision between these two models, consider which design resonates with your personal preferences and taste.

Interior Space

When it comes to comparing the interior space of the Mazda 3 and the Mazda 6, there are a few key differences to consider.

  • The Mazda 3 offers a comfortable and spacious seating arrangement, with enough room to comfortably accommodate up to five passengers. Whether you’re driving alone or with a full car, you’ll find that the Mazda 3 provides ample legroom and headroom. Additionally, the rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making it perfect for those who need to transport larger items.
  • On the other hand, the Mazda 6 takes things a step further in terms of interior space. It offers a more generous amount of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, providing a truly luxurious and comfortable experience. The rear seats in the Mazda 6 can also be folded down, allowing you to optimize storage capacity when needed.
  • Another crucial aspect to consider when comparing the interior space is the overall design and layout. Both the Mazda 3 and the Mazda 6 boast a modern and well-designed cabin, featuring high-quality materials and finishes. However, the Mazda 6 goes the extra mile with its premium touches and attention to detail, giving it a more refined and upscale feel.

Overall, whether you prioritize ample seating and cargo space or a more luxurious and sophisticated interior, both the Mazda 3 and the Mazda 6 offer impressive options. It’ll ultimately come down to your personal preferences and requirements.

Note: The following table provides a summary of the interior space dimensions for each model.

Model Seating Capacity Legroom (Front/Rear) Headroom (Front/Rear) Cargo Space
Mazda 3 Up to 5 XX.X in / XX.X in XX.X in / XX.X in XX.X cu.ft
Mazda 6 Up to 5 XX.X in / XX.X in XX.X in / XX.X in XX.X cu.ft

Performance and Engine Options

When it comes to performance and engine options, both the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 offer impressive choices. Let’s take a closer look at what each model has to offer:

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 is available with two engine options:

  1. 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine: This engine generates 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, providing a peppy and engaging driving experience.
  2. 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine: For those looking for a bit more power, the Mazda 3 offers this larger engine, which delivers 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque.

In addition to these engine options, the Mazda 3 also comes with the option of a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. Whether you prefer the control and responsiveness of a manual or the smoothness of an automatic, the Mazda 3 has you covered.

Mazda 6

The Mazda 6 offers even more power and performance, thanks to its available engine options:

  1. 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine: This standard engine produces a respectable 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving.
  2. Turbocharged 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine: For those seeking a more thrilling ride, the Mazda 6 offers this turbocharged option, delivering a robust 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

Both engine options in the Mazda 6 are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission for smooth and efficient shifting.

In terms of performance, the Mazda 6 takes the lead with its more powerful engine options and added torque. However, both models offer a responsive and enjoyable driving experience that is characteristic of Mazda’s commitment to performance and handling.

Without a doubt, the performance and engine options of both the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 provide exciting choices for drivers. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, power, or a combination of both, Mazda has crafted a lineup that caters to different preferences and driving needs.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, both the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 are equipped with advanced features to keep you protected on the road. Mazda takes safety seriously and has incorporated numerous technologies in these vehicles to provide peace of mind for both the driver and passengers.

Mazda 3 Safety Features

The Mazda 3 comes with a range of safety features that are designed to enhance your driving experience. Some of the notable safety features in the Mazda 3 include:

  • i-Activsense® Safety Technology: This suite of advanced safety features includes features like Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, and Smart Brake Support. These technologies work together to help you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid potential collisions.
  • Advanced Smart City Brake Support: This feature helps prevent front-end collisions at lower speeds by automatically applying the brakes if it detects an imminent impact.
  • High Beam Control: This feature automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles to improve visibility while driving at night.

Mazda 6 Safety Features

The Mazda 6 also offers a comprehensive range of safety features to ensure your safety on the road. Some of the key safety features in the Mazda 6 include:

  • i-Activsense® Safety Technology: Similar to the Mazda 3, the Mazda 6 is equipped with advanced safety features like Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, and Smart Brake Support.
  • Dynamic Stability Control: This feature helps you maintain control of the vehicle by continuously monitoring factors like wheel slip, steering angle, and yaw rate. It adjusts engine torque and applies brakes to specific wheels if necessary.
  • Traction Control System: This system helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration by adjusting engine torque and braking force to give you better grip on the road.

Both the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 offer a wide range of safety features to ensure your well-being on the road. Whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway, these advanced safety technologies work together to provide a confident and secure driving experience.

Mazda’s commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive safety features incorporated into their vehicles. With these advanced technologies, you can focus on enjoying your drive, knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected.

Price and Value

When comparing two vehicles, one important factor to consider is the price and overall value. Let’s take a look at how the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 stack up in this regard.

Mazda 3:

  • The Mazda 3 offers a more affordable starting price compared to the Mazda 6, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Despite its lower price, the Mazda 3 still maintains a high level of value with its impressive list of standard features and advanced safety technologies.
  • With its fuel-efficient engine options, the Mazda 3 also provides savings at the pump, making it an economical choice in the long run.
  • Additionally, the Mazda 3 has a reputation for retaining its value well over time, which can be a significant advantage if you decide to sell or trade in your vehicle down the line.
  • While the Mazda 6 may have a higher starting price than the Mazda 3, it offers a more luxurious and refined driving experience, which can be worth the investment for those seeking a higher-end sedan.
  • The Mazda 6 boasts a spacious and well-designed interior, with premium materials and advanced technology features that elevate the overall comfort and convenience of the vehicle.
  • In terms of value, the Mazda 6 offers a great balance of performance, style, and functionality, making it a compelling choice for buyers who prioritize a more upscale driving experience.

Comparing the price and value of the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and budget. If you’re looking for an affordable compact car without compromising on features and safety, the Mazda 3 is a fantastic choice. However, if you desire a more luxurious and refined sedan with a higher price tag, the Mazda 6 may be the ideal option for you.

Keep reading to explore more aspects of these two vehicles and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6, there are a few key factors to consider. Both vehicles offer advanced safety features that prioritize the well-being of the driver and passengers. The Mazda 3 boasts i-Activsense® Safety Technology, Advanced Smart City Brake Support, and High Beam Control, while the Mazda 6 provides i-Activsense® Safety Technology, Dynamic Stability Control, and Traction Control System. These safety technologies work together to enhance the driving experience and provide peace of mind on the road.

In terms of price and value, the Mazda 3 has a more affordable starting price and offers a high level of value with its standard features and advanced safety technologies. It also offers fuel-efficient engine options, providing long-term savings. On the other hand, the Mazda 6 has a higher starting price but offers a more luxurious and refined driving experience. It features a spacious and well-designed interior with premium materials and advanced technology features.

Ultimately, the choice between the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 depends on personal preferences and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability and fuel efficiency or luxury and refinement, Mazda has options to suit your needs. Explore the features and take both vehicles for a test drive to determine which one is the perfect fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What safety features does the Mazda 3 have?

A: The Mazda 3 is equipped with i-Activsense® Safety Technology, Advanced Smart City Brake Support, and High Beam Control.

Q: What safety features does the Mazda 6 have?

A: The Mazda 6 provides i-Activsense® Safety Technology, Dynamic Stability Control, and Traction Control System.

Q: How do these safety features enhance the driving experience?

A: These safety features work together to ensure the well-being of the driver and passengers, providing peace of mind on the road.

Q: What is the starting price of the Mazda 3?

A: The Mazda 3 has a more affordable starting price compared to the Mazda 6.

Q: What value does the Mazda 3 offer?

A: The Mazda 3 offers a high level of value with its standard features, advanced safety technologies, and fuel-efficient engine options.

Q: What is the starting price of the Mazda 6?

A: The Mazda 6 has a higher starting price than the Mazda 3.

Q: What features does the Mazda 6 offer?

A: The Mazda 6 offers a more luxurious and refined driving experience with its spacious interior, premium materials, and advanced technology features.

Q: Which Mazda model should I choose?

A: The choice between the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 depends on personal preferences and budget.