With 29 MPG combined, the 2018 Mazda 6, equipped with its 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, is an efficient option in the mid-size sedan class, especially considering its sporty driving experience and upscale interior. This car is designed for drivers who want a responsive throttle and engaging handling but also want reasonable fuel consumption. This Mazda appeals to those who don’t want to give up driving enjoyment to save money on gas. They want a car that feels special without being too expensive.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Mazda 6 2.5L show different results for city and highway driving, but both are good for the class. The 26 MPG city rating shows the inherent inefficiencies of stop-and-go conditions. The engine spends more time idling, accelerating, and decelerating, which uses more fuel without covering much distance. However, the Mazda 6’s i-ELOOP regenerative braking system, which is available on some trims, helps recover some of that energy, subtly improving city fuel economy. On the open road, the 35 MPG highway rating reveals the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at consistent speeds. The smooth six-speed automatic transmission helps by selecting the best gear for maximizing fuel economy. The Mazda 6 is ideal for long road trips, where it can comfortably and efficiently cover hundreds of miles.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mazda 6 2.5L at $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving. It also uses the national average fuel prices when the estimate was calculated. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and driving conditions. However, $1,500 gives you a way to compare the Mazda 6 to other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a starting point, but real-world fuel economy can differ. The 2018 Mazda 6 is known for delivering fuel economy that closely matches or even exceeds EPA estimates, if driven responsibly. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and consistently high speeds will negatively affect fuel consumption. But, smoother driving, anticipating traffic, and using cruise control on the highway can improve fuel economy. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the weather can affect fuel economy. Cold weather, in particular, can reduce fuel efficiency due to increased engine friction and the energy needed to heat the cabin.

How it compares

The mid-size sedan segment is very competitive, and fuel economy is often a deciding factor for buyers. The Honda Accord 1.5T, for example, gets an EPA-estimated 33 MPG combined, making it slightly more fuel-efficient than the Mazda 6. The Toyota Camry with its 2.5L engine gets around 32 MPG combined, and the Nissan Altima with its 2.5L base engine gets about 31 MPG combined. While the Mazda 6 might not have the best fuel economy in its class, its mix of efficiency, driving dynamics, and stylish design, gives it an advantage. Drivers who want sporty handling and a premium feel may not mind the slightly lower MPG rating compared to other options. You can find all Mazda fuel economy data on our site.

For those interested in other Mazda 6 models, we have 6 MPG across all years if you want to compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Pay attention to tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure, which is usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you money on gas.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Gradual acceleration and smooth braking improve fuel economy and extend the life of your brake pads and tires. Be gentle with the accelerator pedal, and anticipate traffic to reduce unnecessary braking. The Mazda 6’s responsive engine may be tempting, but restraint is helpful.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control keeps a consistent speed, which reduces fuel consumption compared to changing your speed. It is most effective on flat, open stretches of highway. Remember to turn off cruise control in heavy traffic or bad weather.

Minimize idling time. Idling wastes fuel, especially in modern vehicles. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The Mazda 6 starts quickly and easily, so restarting is an easy way to save fuel. This is true at long traffic lights or when waiting in parking lots.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and back seats. Getting rid of extra weight in your car regularly can improve efficiency. This includes items like golf clubs, sports equipment, or tools you seldom use.