All-New Mazda6 2025 – Is This the Comeback of Sedans in Australia?

It’s 2025, and while SUVs dominate Australian roads, Mazda is making a daring statement — the return of the Mazda6. After a brief hiatus, the all-new 2025 Mazda6 emerges not as a mere update, but as a complete reimagination of the mid-size sedan. With aggressive styling, premium underpinnings, and a commitment to driving engagement, the Mazda6 2025 signals a bold attempt to breathe life back into the sedan market.

But does this Japanese four-door have what it takes to stand out in an SUV-obsessed market? Or is it simply a nostalgic nod to a fading format?

Let’s dive into the full breakdown.

A Brief Look Back: Mazda6 Through the Years

Before we unpack the latest model, it's worth reflecting on the Mazda6’s history:

• First Generation (2002–2007): Introduced as a sporty, driver-focused alternative to Camry and Accord.
• Second Generation (2008–2012): Larger, more refined, but less dynamic.
• Third Generation (2012–2021): Returned to sporty form with KODO design, SkyActiv tech, and premium aspirations.

Mazda eventually pulled the Mazda6 from Australia in 2021 due to dwindling sales — a casualty of the SUV surge. Now, four years later, it’s back, and it’s more ambitious than ever.

Exterior Design: A Bold Statement

The 2025 Mazda6 is not just an evolution — it’s a revolution. Built on Mazda’s new longitudinal platform (shared with the CX-60), the design cues are unmistakably premium and performance-focused.

Key Highlights:

• Longer bonnet and rear-drive proportions, reminiscent of a BMW 3 Series.
• Slim LED matrix headlights and a wide, sculpted grille.
• Pronounced shoulder lines and elegant rear styling.

From the front, the Mazda6 looks athletic — even aggressive — with a sense of motion even when parked. The rear is equally sleek, with coupe-like tapering and stylish tail-lights. It's a visual departure from the previous generation and a clear upmarket push.

Interior: Premium Touch Without the Price Tag

Step inside, and the new Mazda6 truly shines. Mazda has been walking the fine line between mainstream affordability and luxury feel, and in 2025, that balance is better than ever.

Cabin Features:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 14.0-inch central touchscreen infotainment system (Mazda Connect with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto)
• High-grade materials: soft-touch dash, Nappa leather (GT and above), woodgrain accents
• Heads-up display, multi-zone climate control, and ambient lighting

Mazda’s interior execution is often underappreciated, but here it feels almost Audi-like in sophistication, without the associated cost. Rear seat space has improved too, thanks to the new RWD layout, with a flatter floor and longer wheelbase.

Powertrains and Performance

This is where things get very interesting — the 2025 Mazda6 is now rear-wheel drive. For driving purists, that’s music to the ears.

Engine Options in Australia:

Mazda’s new 3.3L inline-6 petrol (shared with the CX-60) brings the kind of effortless torque and refinement that makes even the base 4-cylinder seem brisk.

Coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Mazda6 offers a driving experience that feels planted, mature, and seriously refined — finally making good on Mazda's premium aspirations.

Handling: The New Benchmark?

Thanks to the new platform, the 2025 Mazda6 drives with a level of poise and dynamism that’s rare in the mid-size sedan market.

• 50:50 weight distribution offers balance in corners.
• RWD layout gives it genuine agility, unlike FWD rivals.
• Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus system improves cornering response.
• MacPherson strut front / multi-link rear suspension setup tuned for Aussie roads.

On twisty roads, the Mazda6 is confident and composed. It’s not a sports sedan in the vein of a BMW 3 Series M Sport, but it’s engaging enough to make the drive enjoyable.

Technology & Infotainment

Mazda’s infotainment game has improved significantly. With the 2025 update, it finally delivers on both form and function.

• Mazda Connect OS: Faster, slicker, more intuitive.
• Wireless smartphone mirroring
• Embedded navigation with real-time traffic
• Bose 12-speaker premium audio (GT and up)
• Over-the-air software updates

Plus, Mazda has finally ditched the older rotary dial interface in favour of a touchscreen-focused system, though the rotary controller remains for redundancy.

Safety Features: ANCAP 5-Star Target

Safety is a major focus of the new Mazda6, with a host of standard and optional features designed to meet stringent 2025 ANCAP protocols.

Standard on all models:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian & cyclist detection
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• 360-degree camera (GT and up)
• Traffic Sign Recognition

Expect a 5-star ANCAP rating once officially tested.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency

Despite its performance slant, Mazda has tuned the 2025 Mazda6 for respectable fuel economy:

• 2.5L petrol: ~7.5L/100km combined
• 3.3L turbo: ~8.2L/100km combined
• 3.3L MHEV: ~6.9L/100km combined

The mild-hybrid setup in the GT-X variant adds regenerative braking and a 48V battery system to reduce consumption and emissions — a smart move given tightening emission norms in Australia.

Trim Levels and Pricing (Est. for Australia)

While official pricing will be confirmed closer to launch, expected positioning is:

Compared to similarly specced SUVs, the new Mazda6 offers excellent value for buyers who want sedan refinement, power, and comfort at a more accessible price.

Comparison with Rivals

The Mazda6 sits right in the sweet spot — offering European driving dynamics at a Japanese price tag.

Is This the Sedan That Aussies Will Buy Again?

The question on everyone’s mind: can the Mazda6 help revive the mid-size sedan segment in Australia?

It certainly has the tools:

• RWD driving pleasure
• Premium interior and tech
• Competitive pricing
• Excellent safety and fuel economy

But it will still face an uphill battle against Australia’s SUV obsession. Mazda’s strategy hinges on the appeal of premium quality without premium pricing, and that might just strike the right chord with buyers looking to break away from the SUV herd.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Mazda6 is a sedan lover’s dream. With its bold styling, RWD architecture, and refined execution, it bridges the gap between affordable performance and executive polish.

It might not topple the SUV market overnight, but it could spark a revival — one petrol-powered drift at a time.

Pros:

• Rear-wheel drive dynamics
• Inline-6 performance option
• Premium interior and infotainment
• Competitive pricing
• Great balance between comfort and sportiness

Cons:

• No full hybrid or EV variant (yet)
• Sedan format may deter SUV-focused buyers
• Limited boot height compared to hatchbacks

Should You Wait or Buy?

If you're shopping for a mid-size sedan in 2025, waiting for the new Mazda6 is absolutely worth it. It delivers a compelling mix of driving enjoyment, luxury, and practicality — and it might just reignite your love for the classic sedan.