1996 Mazda MX6 LS 2.5 V6 from North America
Summary:
Reliable, good gas mileage commuter car
Faults:
Standard maintenance +
Drivers side window motor stopped working. Was going to be $400 to replace new, or $200 with a junkyard part. Passenger side is slowly failing.
The leather door liners are coming unglued from the doors.
Radio only works intermittently.
Trunk lid doesn't stay open well because the struts wore out.
Ignition lock is broken, requires key in at all times to be able to shift gears.
General Comments:
Overall for a 13 year old car, it looks very good. It has aged very well, like the RX7 of that period as well.
Overall, I have only done routine maintenance to keep this car running - couple of oil changes tire rotation, and a brake light bulb. Not bad for a used car. I think the previous owner maintained it well which always helps.
This car gets great gas mileage for a V6. I average 27-28 MPG is mixed driving. This is a commuter car for me.
It would be more fun in a 5sp, but it does have good pickup. This is not a SPORTS CAR, it is a "sporty car."
My biggest complaints with the car are that there is a lot of road noise, the A/C is weak, and the radio malfunction is annoying. DO NOT EVEN THINK OF BUYING THIS CAR IF YOU HAVE KIDS THAT NEED TO GO INTO THE BACK SEAT, ESPECIALLY REAR FACING! The car seats are very difficult to install correctly, and it is always a pain to get the kids in the car.
Overall, the car gets a plus for good gas mileage, reliability, and decent handling.
The car gets minuses for noise, glitches, and lack of cup holders. Lack of rear seat space.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 24th June, 2009