2020 Mazda6 White driving

How Do the Mazda3 and the Mazda6 Compare?

What’s the Difference Between the 2020 Mazda3 and the 2020 Mazda6?

When looking for a fun-to-drive car that combines a feature-packed interior with sleek and athletic looks, all paths lead straight to the Mazda lineup. But the journey isn’t over quite yet. There are two car models in the roaster that can offer you all the before-mentioned advantages – the Mazda3 and the Mazda6. These two well-known models have plenty in common, but what sets them apart is far more than just a number. Do you want to know what’s the difference between the 2020 Mazda3 and the 2020 Mazda6? Keep reading this comparison to find out which model best suits your driving needs.


Read more: What Does the 2020 Mazda3 Have to Offer?


How Is the Mazda3 Different From the Mazda6?

2020 Mazda3VS2020 Mazda6
$21,500Starting MSRP$24,100
2.5-liter SKYACTIV®-GTop Engine2.5-liter SKYACTIV®-G Turbo
186 hp / 186 lb-ftTop Horsepower / Torque250 hp / 310 lb-ft
FWD, AWDDrivetrain OptionsFWD
6-speed automatic, 6-speed manualAvailable Transmissions6-speed automatic
Sedan and hatchbackBody StylesSedan
92.8 / 92.7 cu. ft.Passenger Volume99.7 cu. ft.
13.2 / 20.1 cu. ft.Cargo Space14.7 cu. ft.

The most obvious difference between the Mazda3 and Mazda6 can be found in their size. First of all, it’s important to point out that the Mazda6 comes as a midsize sedan no matter which trim you choose. The Mazda3, on the other hand, can be purchased as a small sedan or a hatchback, and each body style comes with its own dimensions. Both models can seat up to five people, but the Mazda3 is definitely smaller. The rear seat of the Mazda6 midsize sedan is noticeably more spacious, featuring 38.7 inches of legroom compared to 35.1 inches in the Mazda3. In terms of cargo space, the Mazda6 beats the sedan version of the Mazda3 by 1.5 cubic feet, but the hatchback model takes the win with 20.1 cubic feet of room for cargo.

Side view of the 2020 Mazda6
2020 Mazda3 Grady driving

By taking a look at what’s under the hood of these two models, we can also see clear differences. Both come standard with a SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, but the three range-topping trims of the Mazda6 are upgraded to the more powerful SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. Another difference comes up when looking at the drivetrain options. While the Mazda6 is only available with front-wheel drive, both the Mazda3 sedan and hatchback can be had with all-wheel drive. Likewise, transmission options are also different between these two cars. The Mazda6 only comes with a 6-speed automatic, and while the Mazda3 sedan also comes with this transmission, the hatchback version offers the option of a 6-speed manual.


Read more: What i-ACTIVSENSE Safety Features Come Standard on the 2020 Mazda6?


Now that you know the main differences that set these two models apart, it’s time to decide which one will be the best choice for you. Both models exemplify all that’s great about Mazda, so you can’t go wrong with either of them. If you have already made up your mind, check out our online inventory to see all the models we have available at Cardenas Mazda in Harlingen, TX. You can also schedule a test drive to get a feel for both of them before making your final buying decision.