# Mazda 6 — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Mazda 6 on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mazda-6

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2020
- **Ideal trim**: Sport Nav
- **Target mileage**: 40,000
–60,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £17,000

## Why this model

The Mazda 6 is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a stylish, reliable, and genuinely enjoyable family car that won't break the bank. It drives really well, feels a bit more premium than its price suggests, and Mazda's SkyActiv engines are known for being efficient and robust. It's a solid alternative to the usual German saloons without the hefty price tag, and it's built to last, so high mileage isn't usually a concern if it's been well-maintained.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market trends (February 2026), a 2020 Mazda 6 Sport Nav 2.0 SkyActiv with around 30-50k miles typically sells for about £17,000. This is a sweet spot where the initial depreciation has slowed significantly, offering great value for money. You might find slightly cheaper SE-L models or pay a bit more for the top-spec GT Sport Nav, but £17,000 is a fair target for a well-equipped mid-range model.

## Which trim to buy

The Sport Nav trim is definitely the one to go for. It hits the perfect balance between features and value. You get a lot of goodies like a Bose sound system, heated seats, a reversing camera, and a good infotainment system with sat-nav, without paying the premium for the very top-spec GT Sport Nav. It feels luxurious enough without being overkill, and it's easier to find on the used market than the base models, which sometimes lack desirable features.

## What to check before you buy

- Infotainment system glitches (minor)
- Rear brake caliper sticking (less common on newer models)
- DPF issues on diesel models (avoid if mostly short journeys)

## Running costs

For a 2.0 SkyActiv Petrol engine, you can expect around 40-45 mpg. At current petrol prices (approx. £1.45/litre), that's roughly 16.5 pence per mile. Road tax (VED) for a 2020 model is the standard rate of £190 per year. Insurance costs will vary widely based on your personal details, but the Mazda 6 generally sits in a reasonable insurance group for its class. Overall, it's a pretty economical car to run for its size.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 145-194 hp
- **Mpg**: 40-45 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2018)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| SE-L Nav | £24,995 | £15,500 | 17-inch alloy wheels; LED headlights; 8-inch infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Sport Nav | £27,995 | £17,000 | 19-inch alloy wheels; Bose surround sound system; Heated front seats |
| GT Sport Nav | £30,995 | £18,500 | Nappa leather upholstery; Ventilated front seats; Heated steering wheel |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £17,000 | 100% |
| 2027 | £14,500 | 85% |
| 2028 | £12,500 | 73% |
| 2029 | £10,800 | 63% |
| 2030 | £9,500 | 56% |

Buying a 2020 Mazda 6 now means you're getting it past its steepest depreciation curve. The initial big drops in value have already happened, so while it will continue to depreciate, the rate will be much slower. This makes it a smart buy for long-term ownership, as you'll lose less money year-on-year compared to buying a newer model.

Total value lost since new: 44%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Skoda Superb](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/skoda-superb.md)
- [Volkswagen Passat](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/volkswagen-passat.md)
- [Ford Mondeo](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/ford-mondeo.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.