Why the Mazda6 2.5 Turbo Was One of the Best Mid-Size Sedans

The 2018-2021 Mazda6 Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo combined style, refinement, and sporty performance, making it a standout among mid-size sedans.

Even though Mazda discontinued the Mazda6 in North America as of 2024, the sedan’s handsome styling still turns heads. Its sleek lines and balanced proportions give it a more premium appearance than many newer rivals. The interior exudes a timeless luxury feel, featuring high-quality materials, a minimalistic layout, and ergonomic controls that remain easy to use, proving that Mazda prioritized both aesthetics and practicality.

Performance That Excited Drivers

Under the hood, the 2.5-liter turbocharged Skyactiv-G engine delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, allowing the front-wheel-drive Mazda6 to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 149 mph. While not a full-bore performance sedan, the engine’s responsiveness and torque curve provided an engaging driving experience, blending sportiness with everyday usability.

Handling and Comfort in Perfect Balance

The Mazda6 was more than just straight-line speed. Precise steering and composed handling made it enjoyable on twisty roads, while careful suspension tuning minimized road imperfections. Inside, highway cruising remained quiet and refined, giving the sedan a balance of sporty feel and comfort that many competitors struggled to achieve.

Practicality Meets Sportiness

Despite its performance, the Mazda6 retained everyday usability. The cabin design, combined with front-wheel-drive practicality and a refined chassis, meant it could handle long drives comfortably while still being fun behind the wheel. The turbocharged engine and sharp dynamics gave drivers a “warm performance” experience–quick and lively, without venturing into supercar territory.

Looking Toward a Potential Future

Enthusiasts have speculated that Mazda could revive the Mazda6 on a rear-wheel-drive platform, possibly the CX-90’s RWD architecture with a 3.3-liter turbo inline-six, bringing it closer to full performance sedan territory. Such a move would combine the timeless design and refined handling of the Mazda6 with modern power and driving engagement, potentially reestablishing it as a class-leading mid-size sedan.