Hi Everyone,

I've been an active member of the Hyundai forums and thought I'd voice my questions here to see if there are any suggestions!

I'm in the process of purchasing a 2011 Mazda 6 (trading in my 08 Santa Fe) and wanted the opinions of a few people here.

Is there a significant difference in performance and mileage between the two? I know on the Santa Fe there is a big performance difference in the engine sizes, but there's an extra gear in the larger engine so the mileage works out to be about the same.

Is it possible to replace the Head Unit in the new Mazda 6 and have it look reasonably decent? The sound output on my wife's Mazda 3 is awful and I'd like to put in an aftermarket sub/amp which most factory decks don't allow for.

I'm located in southwestern Ontario, what could be a reasonable discount I request off the MSRP? Can anyone break down the dealer cost by trim level for me?

How well does the leather interior hold up? I have a dog that I'm concerned about scratching/tearing the leather.

Are there any known issues with the 2011? Any typical problems like the car enjoys eating tie rod ends for breakfast (silly Santa Fe)?

Thanks,
Josh

 

This and other Mazda related forums are frequently peppered with anecdotal reports of premature engine failure in V6 equipped Mazda6s. While anecdotal reports are often proven incorrect in the long run, I'd avoid a V6 engine were I in your shoes. Then again, given that I'm a self-professed manual transmission bigot, and given the Mazda6 is only available with a stick when you opt for the I4 engine, I wouldn't be caught dead in a V6 Mazda6.

 

I greatly appreciate that help! Do you find the I4 peppy enough? I often laughed at a 4 cyl engine pulling the new Santa Fe's, but the Mazda 6 is about half the weight!

 

I haven't driven a new Mazda6 with a 4-Cylinder Automatic, but with a stick it is more than enough to get around with some snap.