Mazda 3 vs. Mazda 6: which is better?
We take a look at Mazda's small hatchback and mid-size saloon on space, performance and features in this comparison guide of the two models
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Although the brand has a growing number of SUVs, Mazda has sold an impressive range of hatchback, saloon and estate models over the years.
An incredibly versatile selection, the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 come in multiple versions, so deciding which version, let alone which model, is right for you can be tricky.
We spell out the key differences between these two popular picks in an effort to instil you with confidence that your decision is the right one for your needs.
Mazda 6 vs. Mazda 3: which has more style?
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The smaller Mazda 3 is designed to target younger audiences, so it has a more dynamic-looking style that verges on being sporty while maintaining a classy, stylish shape.
Compared to other hatchbacks, it has a lower and wider stance, which is most evident on the front end where the large grille extends from the bonnet to low down on the bumper.
The latest version, introduced in 2019, is much softer and cleaner than the outgoing model. Its focus on minimalism helps position it as a fairly premium model.
The hatchback model has a curved, sloping rear roofline, which gives it a sense of coupé, but there’s also a saloon model which almost looks like a mini Mazda 6.
The Mazda 6 is a much larger saloon in comparison, as it’s targeted more towards families who need the extra space in the back.
Its design is slightly older than the Mazda 3’s, because the final generation was launched in 2013, though plenty of updates kept it looking sharp up until it was taken off sale in 2023.
It still has the same combination of sharp angles and soft lines in all the right places that give it an understated, almost luxurious vibe.
What is it like to drive a Mazda 6 vs. 3?
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Being Mazdas, both the 6 and the 3 are fun to drive because they have engaging, responsive steering and taut suspension.
Like many other saloon models, the Mazda 6 is designed with longer-distance driving in mind, so it’s set up to be comfortable and quiet.
The Mazda 3 is more suited to towns and cities where it feels more nimble. There’s no hot hatch version, but every model feels good to drive.
Mazda typically uses larger engines than you might expect given the power output, but there’s plenty of clever fuel-saving technology on offer to keep running costs relatively low, including mild hybrid technology on certain newer cars.
The Mazda 6 has a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 145hp and 165hp variants and a more powerful 194hp 2.5-litre unit, but many long-distance drivers prefer the 150hp and 184hp 2.2-litre diesels.
The latest Mazda 3 also comes with 2.0-litre petrol engines, with either 122hp or 186hp. Both come with mild hybrid assistance to help keep emissions low and mpg figures above 50 (in the manual models).
What is the technology in the Mazda 3 and 6?
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Being an older model, you might expect the Mazda 6 to come with less car tech, but it’s positioned as a more expensive, more luxurious model, so it’s generously equipped.
As of the 2018 facelift, all models come with LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, an electronic parking brake, dual-zone climate control and adaptive cruise control.
Higher-spec models and those fitted with optional extras might come with features such as heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, a reversing camera or a 360-degree parking camera, keyless entry and a Bose sound system.
The Mazda 3 is also seriously impressive, especially given its price point. As a guide, newer models come as standard with adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and lots of safety kit.
You also get a great infotainment system that works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while things like keyless entry and a wireless phone charger come with higher trim levels.
Mazda 3 vs. 6 dimensions and boot space
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The Mazda 3 is a surprisingly long car, several inches longer than many of its key rivals. It measures 4,460mm long, 1,795mm wide (plus mirrors) and 1,435mm tall.
There are some slight differences between the hatchback and the saloon, but the most noteworthy is that the saloon is 20cm longer, which is several inches longer than the Audi A3 Saloon.
The Mazda 6 is also a big car, but it’s pretty similar to its main competitors. It’s 4,870mm long, 1,840mm wide and 1,450mm tall.
Surprisingly, the estate version is 6.5cm shorter than the saloon, although it doesn’t look it.
Boot space for both models is pretty average – the Mazda 3 gets a 334-litre space in hatchback form, and the Mazda 6 estate model has a 522-litre boot.
The difference is less for the saloons, where the Mazda 3’s impressive 450-litre boot comes very close to the 480 litres on offer from the Mazda 6.
Mazda 3 vs. 6: which is more reliable?
On the whole, Mazda generally performs admirably in consumer satisfaction surveys and generally places in the top half of all manufacturers.
There aren’t any significant differences in reported reliability between these two models, and while changes have been made to them over the years, they both use the same engine technology and mechanical foundations.
Don’t be put off by buying a newer car on the basis that it might be less reliable, because that’s not the case.
Used Mazda 6 vs used Mazda 3: which should I buy?
If you’re after a comfortable, engaging and practical hatchback, the Mazda 3 is a great option. It’s well worth a look over other hatchback models.
If you’re after a saloon, the Mazda 6 offers a more luxurious and spacious interior. However, the more compact Mazda 3 saloon variant should be credited for its impressive practicality. Plus, if you’re looking at newer models, they generally come with more up-to-date tech.
The Mazda 6 estate is a compelling option for anyone who needs more usable boot space, especially given that it’s no larger in terms of exterior dimensions than the saloon variant.