MazdaSpeed6 Review: 274‑HP AWD Subaru Fighter That’s Painfully Unreliable
The MazdaSpeed6 packs a 274‑horsepower AWD drivetrain that could take on the Subaru WRX, but it’s notorious for costly reliability problems. While the car impressed with its speed and style, owners soon discovered a litany of mechanical gremlins that can drain a wallet.
MazdaSpeed6 Review: 274‑HP AWD Subaru Fighter That’s Painfully Unreliable
Image: MazdaSpeed6 Review: 274‑HP AWD Subaru Fighter That’s Painfully Unreliable – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
From the outside, the Speed6 looks like a sport sedan on a mission. The aggressive front bumper, larger rear spoiler, and 18‑inch alloy wheels give it a more aggressive stance than the regular 6. Inside, the driver‑focused cockpit features bolstered seats, a short‑shift shifter, and a subtle red‑trim theme that screams “performance” without being over the top. The overall design still feels very Mazda – sleek, balanced, and ready for daily driving.
Performance & Mileage
The heart of the Speed6 is a 2.3‑liter turbocharged inline‑four that churns out 274 hp and 280 lb‑ft of torque. Paired with a six‑speed manual and Mazda’s i‑AWD system, the car can sprint from 0‑60 mph in about 5.9 seconds. Real‑world fuel economy sits around 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, respectable for a performance sedan of its era. However, the engine’s high boost pressures have been linked to cracked cylinder heads, oil leaks, and premature turbo failures – problems that many owners report costing several thousand dollars to fix.
| Engine | 2.3 L Turbo I4, 274 hp |
|---|---|
| Mileage | ≈ 22 mpg city / 29 mpg hwy |
| Price (original) | $28,000–$33,000 |
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Price & Rivals
When it launched, the Speed6 was priced to undercut the Subaru WRX STI while offering a more refined ride. Today, you’ll find it on the used market for $8,000–$12,000 depending on condition and mileage. Its main rivals remain the WRX STI, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, and the Audi S4. Compared to those, the Speed6 still feels sharp on the road, but the reliability record puts it at a disadvantage. Buyers should budget extra for potential repairs, especially for the turbo, cooling system, and transmission.
FAQ
- What is the fuel mileage of the MazdaSpeed6? Around 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
- Is the MazdaSpeed6 worth buying used? It offers strong performance for the price, but only if you’re prepared for possible expensive repairs.
- How does the Speed6 compare to the Subaru WRX? It has similar power and AWD capability, but the WRX is generally regarded as more reliable.
What’s your experience with the MazdaSpeed6? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Source: Read Official News
