The Mazda 6 2022 remained one of the most refined and engaging family cars on the UK market. Available as both saloon and estate, it offered premium design, superb driving dynamics and excellent efficiency — often outperforming more expensive models from traditional premium brands. For British drivers wanting comfort, space and a genuine driver’s car, the Mazda 6 continued to be a standout choice.
Key Points
- 2.0 Skyactiv-G and 2.5 Skyactiv-G petrol engines
- Up to 194 hp, 0–62 mph from 8.1 seconds
- Up to 47 mpg WLTP, ULEZ compliant
- Available as saloon or estate
- Premium interior with high-quality materials
- UK prices from £24,725
Design and Exterior
Long, elegant and athletic — the Mazda 6 2022 showcased Mazda’s most mature execution of its Kodo: Soul of Motiondesign. Slim LED headlights, a wide grille and flowing lines give it a luxury-car feel, often compared with executive saloons costing thousands more.
| Dimension | Mazda 6 | VW Passat | Skoda Superb |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,865 mm | 4,767 mm | 4,869 mm |
| Width | 1,840 mm | 1,832 mm | 1,863 mm |
| Boot (saloon) | 480 L | 586 L | 625 L |
| Boot (estate) | 522 L | 650 L | 660 L |
Despite competitive size, the Mazda prioritises style and driving engagement over outright cargo space.
Interior and Comfort
The interior quality is exceptional for its class. Soft-touch materials, stitched leather, real aluminium inserts and a clean dashboard layout contribute to a genuinely premium feel.
Standard equipment includes:
- 8-inch infotainment with rotary controller
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Heated front seats
- Dual-zone climate control
- Head-up display (higher trims)
- Premium Bose audio system (GT Sport)
The driving position is superb, offering excellent comfort on long motorway journeys and precise control on B-roads. Rear space is generous, especially in the estate.
For comparison with similarly refined cabins, the interior quality sits close to the Mazda CX-5 2022, with a more executive character and lower driving position.
Engines and Performance
Mazda stays committed to naturally aspirated engines, delivering smooth response and strong reliability without turbo lag.
| Engine | Power | 0–62 mph | Economy | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 Skyactiv-G | 165 hp | 9.4 s | 42–47 mpg | Manual/auto |
| 2.5 Skyactiv-G | 194 hp | 8.1 s | 38–41 mpg | Automatic only |
The 2.5-litre variant enhances acceleration and refinement, ideal for drivers who frequently cover motorways.
From my point of view, the Mazda 6 is one of the most engaging large family cars to drive. Steering precision, body control and overall balance rival premium saloons from Audi and BMW, while offering superior reliability and lower running costs.
Driving Experience
The Mazda 6 delivers a rare combination of comfort and agility. The suspension absorbs rough Tarmac smoothly, yet the chassis remains tight and controlled through corners.
At motorway speeds, the cabin stays quiet thanks to excellent sound insulation. In town, the car feels surprisingly light and easy to manoeuvre.
For efficient long-distance driving, especially when adapting to variable limits, the smooth power delivery pairs perfectly with driving habits outlined in UK Speed Camera Regulations 2025.
Efficiency and Running Costs
The Mazda 6 offers strong economy for its size:
- Up to 47 mpg WLTP (2.0 engine)
- CO₂ emissions: 133–155 g/km
- ULEZ compliant across all versions
- Road tax from £190/year
Insurance groups remain sensible, generally from group 23 to 27, and Mazda’s reputation for longevity helps keep maintenance costs predictable.
Practicality
The saloon offers a spacious 480-litre boot with a wide opening; the estate increases this to 522 litres and adds a more flexible load area with fold-flat rear seats.
Rear legroom is excellent, and cabin storage includes generous door bins, a wide centre console and a well-sized glovebox.
UK Trims and Pricing
| Trim | Highlights | Price (OTR) |
|---|---|---|
| SE-L | LED lights, radar cruise, keyless | £24,725 |
| Sport | 19” alloys, reversing camera | £27,000 |
| GT Sport | Leather, Bose audio, heated rear seats | £30,000 |
| GT Sport Tech | 360° cameras, driver monitoring | £31,500 |
All trims benefit from Mazda’s comprehensive safety suite.
Safety and Reliability
The Mazda 6 achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating and is known for excellent durability.
Standard systems include:
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keep assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Traffic sign recognition
- Rear cross-traffic alert
Reliability remains one of the model’s strongest assets, with long-term owners reporting minimal issues.
FAQs
Is the Mazda 6 2022 still sold in the UK?
Yes, although availability is more limited than in previous years.
Is it ULEZ compliant?
Yes, both engines meet Euro 6d standards.
Is the estate worth choosing?
Yes — it adds space and practicality without sacrificing style or handling.
Which engine is best?
The 2.0 Skyactiv-G for economy; the 2.5 for refinement and performance.
Does it compete with premium brands?
Yes — and it often feels more engaging and better built.
Conclusion
The Mazda 6 2022 remains one of the most sophisticated and rewarding family cars on the road. It blends premium craftsmanship, engaging dynamics and reliable engineering in a package that undercuts traditional executive saloons on price.
From my point of view, it’s a hugely underrated gem in the UK market — perfect for drivers wanting comfort, refinement and genuine driving pleasure without stepping into full luxury segments.
