The Mazda 6 is perhaps one of the most seductive and beautiful D-Segment sedans to ever come out of Japan.

Some 10 years after it was first launched, it continues to attract buyers with just a few aesthetic and tech updates throughout the years.

Besides good looks, the Mazda 6 also offers a sublime driving experience thanks to its stellar chassis, SkyActiv-G drivetrains and slick-shifting 6-speed automatic.

However, there is a common perception that maintaining an used Mazda is more expensive than their counterparts from Honda and Toyota. Is this true? Let's find out.

For brevity, this buyer guide will focus on the 2.0L and 2.5L SkyActiv-G variants of the Mazda 6, and not the 2.2L SkyActiv-D turbodiesel variant. 

A closer look at the Mazda 6 range offered in Malaysia

The third-generation ‘GJ’ Mazda 6 was first launched in 2013 – roughly a year after its global debut at the Moscow International Motor Show.

Three fully imported (CBU from Japan) variants were made available at launch at the following prices:

• 2.0L sedan: RM 159,455
• 2.5L sedan: RM 189,728
• 2.5L Touring: RM 193,832

The 2.0-litre SkyActiv naturally aspirated four-cylinder produced 153 PS and 200 Nm of torque whilst the larger 2.5-litre upped the ante to 185 PS and 250 Nm. In both cases, the engines were mated to a six-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission.

Besides a comprehensive suite of safety features, the GJ Mazda 6 introduced a number of technology firsts that were not present in its competitors, such as the i-ELOOP regenerative braking, adaptive front lights and AEB.

With the model spanning nearly 10 years in 2022, Mazda has relied on running model updates to keep the Mazda 6 relevant in the market, and on par in terms of technology with its competitors.

Though some updates are smaller than others – the 2018 model year update is perhaps the most substantial as it involved aesthetic updates as well as changes under the skin.

Also read: US says goodbye to Mazda 6 and CX-3; Mazda 6 could return with in-line 6 and RWD

As there have been updates in nearly every year since its launch, the following is an itemized list of updates to the GJ Mazda 6 since its 2013 launch.

2015 Update: 2.0L sedan - RM 159,158, 2.5L sedan - RM 194,647, and 2.5L Touring - RM 198,647. 

• Revised dashboard
• Centre console with electric parking brake (EPB)
• Gunmetal rims (2.5 only)
• LED headlights and tail lights (2.5 only)
• Heads-up display (HUD, 2.5 only)

2017 Update: 2.0L sedan - RM 165,518, 2.5L sedan - RM 201,007, and 2.5L Touring - RM 211,006 (incl. insurance).

• G-Vectoring Control (GVC)
• Revised steering wheel
• Full-colour heads-up display (HUD, 2.5 only)
• Full-colour multi info display (MID, 2.5 only)

The 2018 update: 2.0L sedan - RM 156,190, 2.5L sedan - RM 189,698, and 2.5L Touring - RM 193,472.

• Engine power increased: 2.0L (164 PS/213 Nm), 2.5L (195 PS/258 Nm)
• Refreshed front-end design
• New LED headlights and tail lights
• Redesigned 19-inch alloy wheels (2.5 only)
• Walk-away auto door lock (2.5 only)
• Revised dashboard and centre console
• New door trim
• Updated seat upholstery
• 360-degree view camera (2.5L only)

2019 update: 2.0L sedan - RM173,659, 2.5L sedan - RM211,148, 2.5L Touring - RM215,148.

• GVC Plus
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

2021 update: 2.0L Sedan - RM 170,917, 2.5L Sedan - RM 207,642, 2.5LTouring - RM211,478.

• 19-inch Black Metallic alloy wheels (2.5 only)
• Gloss Black outer door mirrors (2.5 only)
• Burgundy Red leather upholstery (2.5 only)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• Walk-away auto door lock for 2.0
• Paddle shifters for 2.0

Also read: 2021 Mazda 6 updated in Malaysia, wireless Apple CarPlay now standard

Which variant should I buy?

Of course, if you can stretch your budget for maintenance, and fuel bills, go for the Mazda 6 2.5L with more power and better features - this is the enthusiast driver's choice. 

Also read: Despite cut from USA, the Mazda CX-3 and Mazda 6 will remain in Malaysia

The 2.0L variant, of course, will be cheaper to maintain.

In addition to smaller fuel bills, the 2.0L also features smaller tyres with thicker sidewalls that offer more comfort and are cheaper to replace. Therefore if you are looking for a relaxed cruiser that is easier to maintain, the 2.0L is your best bet.

Also note, the 2.0L Mazda 6 also doesn't get the expensive i-Stop capacitor which is an expensive component to replace (price listed below).

If you're setting out with a budget of RM 80k this opens up many choices for 2015/2016 production year models with reasonably low mileage and good service history.

In terms of the buying price, you’d be surprised that the 2.5L is pretty much the same price as the 2.0L after a few years due to lesser demand. 

The 2.5L Touring models typically cost RM 5-8k more than their sedan counterparts. Here’s a shortlist of the basic running costs between the two models.

Also read: Buying your first BMW: From RM 15k, a used E46 BMW 3 Series is a perfect starter’s choice

Market prices of the pos-2015 Mazda 6 range between RM 62k and RM 95k across the 2.0L and 2.5L models.

We would recommend post-2015 models which received some minor exterior tweaks and an updated dashboard. Of course, older models from 2013 and 2014 are even cheaper but you can stretch your Ringgit to get a 2015 and up model.

Price variations are large, but with many options to choose from, one can likely strike off RM 3-5k off the selling price with some negotiation.

As always, search for an unmodified and original unit with a comprehensive service history that allows you to properly plan and execute subsequent maintenance.

At the time of writing, there is one Carsome Certified Mazda 6 unit on sale. 

All Carsome Certified vehicles come with 'Carsome Promise' which includes 175-point inspection, professional car reconditioning, all-inclusive and at a fixed price.

If you're not happy, the deal includes a 5-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty.

What about normal maintenance and common problems?

The Mazda 6 is more expensive to maintain than say a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry of the same age, but, that's not because it's a problematic car. 

This is mostly due to higher parts and component prices. Fewer units on the road mean fewer stockists carrying original and OEM parts. This typically drives prices up. 

It's much the same if you were to buy a Volvo or Audi, versus a BMW or Mercedes-Benz. That said, the majority of Mazda 6 owners mostly note fuss-free and enjoyable ownership experiences. 

However, there are a few things common issues to look out for when buying a Mazda 6. 

Another common issue that commonly plagues the Mazda 6 (and CX-5) is premature brake pad and disc wear.

More often than not, this is caused by jammed brake pad retaining pins due to moisture/debris, which limits the brake pad's freedom to float freely within the calliper, and in more serious cases, jamming it solidly against the disc. 

Periodically check your brake pads for unnatural/uneven wear as this is an early sign. And it is recommended to properly clean the calliper surfaces before replacing your brake pads. 

And as with any other car, check for small oil leaks/vapour at the valve cover gasket and oil sump locations. 

Conclusion

10 years on, the Mazda 6's timeless design remains a major selling point and should appeal to buyers who want to make a statement, without breaking the bank. 

Add to that, the Mazda 6 didn't sell in great numbers which guarantees exclusivity - a major x-factor when buying a used vehicle. 

Additionally, its sublime build quality, capable chassis and potent powertrains give the Mazda 6 the punch to match its looks - making it the perfect choice for enthusiasts type drivers as well.  

Whilst yes, maintenance costs are higher due to a limitation of parts supply sources, one can mitigate bigger bills by being more attentive and prompt with general care and maintenance. 

Therefore, prospective buyers should consider if they have the ability and capacity to care for their vehicle properly, before taking the plunge.

Are you looking for a professional and transparent service centre to maintain your used car?

For peace of mind, give your vehicle the proper care it deserves with GoCar Garage. Operated by the Tan Chong group and based in Petaling Jaya, GoCar Garage offers a manufacturer level service experience, but it's open for all makes and models.