Mazda
6
Owner report available
Toyota
Camry
Owner report available
Mazda 6 vs Toyota Camry
The short answer
Based on available data, the Toyota Camry comes out ahead of the Mazda 6 on power and long-term reliability. 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
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.
Camry
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on exceptional long-term reliability and low cost of ownership. The Camry is consistently cited as a benchmark for dependable, low-maintenance transportation capable of exceeding 200,000 miles with basic care. Owners across multiple generations report minimal major repairs, with many vehicles lasting 15-20 years or more.
Best version to buy
Camry Hybrid. The hybrid powertrain is strongly recommended for its combination of superior fuel economy, smoother and quieter operation, and the renowned reliability of Toyota's hybrid system.
Known issues
- Oil consumption in specific model years (notably the 2007 model year): isolated but noted as a known issue for certain generations. Frequency: isolated.
- High-mileage wear items (e.g., EVAP system codes, ABS sensors, TPMS sensors): expected issues on very high-mileage vehicles (150,000+ miles). Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Toyota Camry is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Mazda 6, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Toyota Camry are a dealbreaker, the Mazda 6 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mazda 6 or the Toyota Camry?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Toyota Camry than the Mazda 6. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Mazda 6 or the Toyota Camry?
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 Mazda 6 or the Toyota Camry?
The EPA rates the 2021 Mazda 6 at 26–29 mpg combined and the 2026 Toyota Camry at 43–51 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mazda 6 or the Toyota Camry?
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.