Mazda 6 vs Passat (Estates)

ravendude

Any thoughts on Mazda 6 versus Passat estates? I'd be looking at new and a high enough spec, eg. Mazda 6 Platinum or Passat Highline. I would prefer the styling of the Mazda,

I'd have some concerns that the Mazda 6 resale might be less, - it's is out now since 2013 so is probably just a year or 2 away from a major update. Also, VW is a more popular brand.

There might be more scope for bargaining/discount on the Mazda?

I know the Passat is a solid car, but would be less familiar with reliability etc. on the Mazda.

bazz26

Mazda 6 is getting a slight refresh for MY2017, trims are being revised along with some slight changes to the interior switchgear. I'd be more concerned around the reliability of the SkyActiv diesel engine than resale value but resale value would certainly not be as strong as the Passat.

I'd also say that there might be more scope for a better deal on a Passat than a 6 too especially if you're going the PCP route as I'd imagine VW will want to retain markets share in light of "dieselgate". Mazda's PCP rates are higher than average and certainly alot higher than the rates VW offer at times.

ravendude

I was under the impression that Mazda have a very good reputation for reliability.
Have problems been noted with the SkyActive platform?

bazz26

Mazda petrol engines have a very good record for reliability. However their track record with the design and reliability of their diesel engines since the first generation 6 is far from perfect. Plenty of information about Mazda 6 diesel problems if you do a search.

I'm sure R.O.R will be along soon to give you more info on his fleet of 6 diesels but it's fair to say they are not without their issues.

R.O.R

bazz26 wrote: »

I'm sure R.O.R will be along soon to give you more info on his fleet of 6 diesels but it's fair to say they are not without their issues.

You called?

We've had so many issues with the Mazda Skyactive engines that we're really trying not to put them on the road now. Explaining issues to the customers when they are considering ordering them and only supplying if they really want. Can't remember the exact issue on the last brand new one that went out, but it cost us about €400 to get it recovered from the driver, in to a Mazda dealer and then back to the driver, as he's miles from the nearest Mazda dealer and it had to go in there for whatever issue it is.

If it wasn't for the engine unreliability it would be very high on my recommendation list - great looking, great to drive, and while the interior isn't quite up to European standard, it's not that bad and the Light Stone leather on the platinum is a cracking interior combo with the black carpets.

Passat 2.0Tdi 150ps Highline BE with 162 pack and sport pack is the way to go if you are looking at these 2 options. Other one to throw in the mix would be a Superb Combi 2.0Tdi 150ps Style. Add 18" wheels and Sunset Glass and away you go.

ravendude

R.O.R wrote: »

Passat 2.0Tdi 150ps Highline BE with 162 pack and sport pack is the way to go if you are looking at these 2 options.

....this is the spec I had in mind for the VW but without the BE

Thanks for that ROR, - very useful real world info there about the Mazda

R.O.R

ravendude wrote: »

....this is the spec I had in mind for the VW but without the BE

Thanks for that ROR, - very useful real world info there about the Mazda

BE Model with the 162 pack (possibly without, but couldn't say for sure) gives the "Virtual Cockpit" dashboard. Looks very fancy - not sure it's worth the extra for that alone, but gives the big nav screen and LED headlights as well.