For 2004, Mazda added a wagon and two hatchbacks to its line of Mazda 6 sport sedans. Two engine options were available. Both a sedan and a five-door hatchback (with the "i" trim package designation) came with a 160-horsepower, 2.3-liter four cylinder engine. The higher-end "s" vehicles, including a sedan and hatchback as well as the new wagon, were powered by a 220-horsepower, 3.0-liter V6.
A five-speed manual transmission was standard across the line. A four-speed automatic was optional for the 6i sedan and hatchback, while a five-speed automatic was optional for the s-designated vehicles.
Standard features for the Mazda 6 sedans and hatchbacks included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a CD player, a lighted entry system, cruise control, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a keyless entry system. The s-designated sedan, hatchback, and wagon added four-wheel anti-lock brakes, traction control, audio controls on the steering wheel, and alloy wheels. A sunroof and power seats (for the sedans) were among the options.
Generally, drivers gave the Mazda 6 sedans, hatchbacks, and wagon high marks, citing the cars' styling, performance, handling, sportiness, and value as positive points. Fuel economy for the vehicles was noted as a sore spot by some drivers, but for the most part any negative comments concerned relatively minor repairs or problems.