2014 Mazda3 vs 2014 Mazda6

The sportier Mazda3 will be available in four or five doors.

The new 2014 Mazda3 is expected to go on sale sometime next month, and customers are wondering if it’s worth the wait. In anticipation for its release we decided to compare it to another Mazda that has already hit the streets. We wanted to look at the difference between 2014 Mazda3 and 2014 Mazda6. We found that the specs are pretty similar, so it’s all pretty much a matter of preference. Without further ado, Mazda of Lodi presents: the 2014 Mazda3 vs 2014 Mazda6.

The Mazda3 offers a smaller 155-horse 2.0L, or a 184-horse 2.5L. Both are 4-cylinders and equipped with SkyActiv technology. The 2.5L offers a quicker acceleration without much of a cut to fuel economy, and it also presents the option of a technology package with i-Eloop braking system. The larger size of the Mazda6 makes the 2.5L the only option in all models. Only the Grand Touring model offers the technology package.

Fuel economy ratings are also quite similar. The 2.0-liter in the 3 has the highest rating of 30 mpg city/40 highway when paired with an automatic transmission. The manual option drops the mpg by one in both ratings. In the 6, the Grand Touring model has the highest rating when using the i-Eloop system. It offers 28 city and 40 highway. Quite close to the 3 despite the nearly 370 pound weight difference.

Both models have been given a sport mode button, which helps the automatic transmission run similar to a manual. If you’re hitting a big turn, upshifts are delayed and downshifts are automatic which helps the transmission to find the correct gear. As a sportier option, the Mazda3 allows driver to get more immersed in the driving experience with steering wheel paddle shifters which come standard on the 2.5-liter.

The Mazda6 offers a larger size and engine without much of a cut to fuel economy.

A big difference comes in the available wheels. The 16 inchers come standard on all models of the Mazda3. In the Mazda6, 17 inchers are standard on the Sport and well-filling 19 inchers are standard on the Touring models.

Looking at the specifics of the two vehicles, it becomes apparent that these two vehicles aren’t too different. As we said, it’s more of a matter of preference. The Mazda3 is smaller, but it comes with a higher fuel economy and more features including a floating navigation system. As the 3 is considered a sports sedan, it offers a 5-door option where the 6 only offers a 4-door. The Mazda6 leans more towards the family sedan and provides more room for passengers.

If you think that the 2014 Mazda6 is for you, you don’t have to wait. Check it out on Mazda of Lodi’s inventory. If you prefer the Mazda3, stay tuned to our blog or contact us. We’ll provide you with more information as it becomes available.