Dodge
Avenger
Mazda
6
Dodge Avenger vs Mazda 6: 2018 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Dodge Avenger comes out ahead of the Mazda 6 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Avenger
Overall
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment, with a strong consensus that the vehicle is unreliable, poorly engineered, and offers little value even at low purchase prices. The model is frequently described as a "piece of shit," "unreliable garbage," and a vehicle with a "bad rep." A small minority of owners report acceptable experiences with well-maintained, low-cost examples used as basic transportation, acknowledging its simplicity and depreciation as potential advantages for knowledgeable buyers. However, the dominant narrative centers on persistent mechanical failures, particularly with electrical systems, cooling, and suspension components, leading to frustration and financial strain.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available. While the V6 engine (3.6L Pentastar) is noted by some as providing adequate power and being "decent" compared to the underpowered 4-cylinder, no specific trim or model year is consistently recommended as superior.
Known issues
- ⚠Chronic electrical system failures: includes Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) failures causing no-crank/no-start conditions, flickering/strobing headlights, and general electrical gremlins. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Cooling system problems: includes overheating (even when new), unreliable water pumps prone to leaking into the timing case, clogged heater cores, and erratic temperature gauge behavior. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Suspension component failures: includes premature wear of lower front ball joints and sway bar bushings (causing loud clunking over bumps), and broken sway bar links contributing to poor handling. Frequency: very frequent.
6
Overall
Sentiment is broadly positive, with the Mazda 6 consistently praised for its reliability, longevity, and driving dynamics. Long-term owner reports frequently highlight the vehicle's ability to reach high mileages (e.g., 250,000 miles, 377,000 miles) with minimal major issues when properly maintained. The car is commended for its handsome design, well-regarded interior quality in its class, and a driving experience often described as more engaging than key competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" trim or version across all generations. Feedback is divided by powertrain preference.
Known issues
- ⚠Thin paint / paint chipping and fading: noted on multiple generations, particularly older models. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Rust issues: especially on heat shields and exhaust components, causing rattles; mentioned on pre-2014 models and some later examples. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Steering wheel vibration / shake at highway speeds (55-65 mph / 89-105 km/h): often attributed to tire balance rather than mechanical fault. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Dodge Avenger is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Mazda 6, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Mazda 6 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Dodge Avenger or the Mazda 6?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Dodge Avenger and the Mazda 6. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Dodge Avenger or the Mazda 6?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Dodge Avenger or the Mazda 6?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Dodge Avenger or the Mazda 6?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.