Please Help Me Decide

[magicpants]

Hi guys,

I'm considering getting a second-hand diesel (2 years old) to replace my Ford focus TDCi and I'm split between the mazda6 and the avensis. Can you give me any benefits of choosing the avensis over the mazda6 please? Are there any common problems with the diesel avensis?

Thanks

Dave

[jamesholden]

There are pro's and con's of each. Personally if you must have a diesel in this class I would find a Honda Accord preferable. I think the Mazda 6 looks better but the interiors are known to wear a bit, also since its basically the same running gear as a Mondeo you could get one of them for a fraction of the price. I would say the Avensis makes a decent 2nd choice, with the Mazda in 3rd.

[Mkuk0]

I used to think the Mazda looked better externally, but the interior ( ie the bit I would see most of) was far superior in the Toyota, the stereo is better in the Toyota, and now the 2.2d engine is here, there is little to choose from in the power stakes. The Mazda seemed firmer when I test drove them both, a couple of years back, a more sporty ride. But I chose the Toyota because of the level of equipment and just overall feelgood factor. Not been disappointed yet I have to say B)

[bristolmotorspeedway]

Hi guys,

I'm considering getting a second-hand diesel (2 years old) to replace my Ford focus TDCi and I'm split between the mazda6 and the avensis. Can you give me any benefits of choosing the avensis over the mazda6 please? Are there any common problems with the diesel avensis?

Thanks

Dave

From what I recall when researching my buy, the Mazda6 diesels were not particularly economical. If you can get a 2.2 Avensis, then I would recommend it, there isn't a Mazda6 diesel with that much power, and it's still more economical I think. The Avensis is a quieter cruiser than the Mazda too, but the Mazda is sportier. Personally I think the 6 has more attractive styling, but it seems to be 'dating' faster than the Avensis.

Don't know what your budget is, but if you could stretch to a facelift model (July 06 on) then you get a few extra benefits. The 2.0 was also much improved and revised at this point, the 2.2 mechanically is unchanged.

If the choice is the 'old' Avensis 2.0 D4-D I would probably find it a harder choice and may even lean towards the Mazda engine-wise.

EDIT - I guess the fact that I was buying new and chose the Avensis makes my preference clear, but I am less sure of the choice second-hand (eg I have no idea which is better value at 2 yrs old).

[bristolmotorspeedway]

You may want to consider this that I have just seen on the tech forum at Honest John (hope its ok to mention here)

"In my experience of a fleet of them; nearly all Mazda common-rails will eventually come to a sticky end.

Avoid like the plague."

when asked to expand he went on to say:

" Mainly failed high-pressure [Denso] pumps and serious lubrication issues leading to total engine failure on '03/4/5/6 plates."

There is more detail over there. That thread alone would make me steer well clear of a 6 diesel.