The 2002 Mazda medium-sizes sedan was a design hit.
Even when it was replaced by a new generation its body didn’t look old. Even some newer vehicles looked older than the Mazda6/Atenza. The sharp design, sporty look and three choices of bodywork helped the car be well received by customers around the world. A wide engine range could satisfy most of the mid-size car market customers.

The platform used on the 2002 Mazda6 was actually used for more vehicles from the Ford Motor Company, since at that time Mazda was into a partnership with the American company. Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX and Zephyr or the CX9 SUV from Mazda were built on the same architecture, with an all-wheel independent suspension and choices for all-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive. That said, most Mazda6s had front-wheel-drive. Engines varied from a 1.8-liter with 125 hp up to a 220 hp from a 3.0-liter V6 in some markets. The transmissions offered were either five or six-speed manuals. For the automatic versions, there were four or five speeds available, depending on the engine.

The Mazda 6 was available in few trim levels, with specific options installed. Top versions had a sat-nav system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Bose sound system. Bucket seats were installed on sportier trims, but even the standard ones were good for holding their occupants in place while cornering.