2006 Mazdaspeed6: Mazda Gem of the Day

2006 Mazdaspeed6: Mazda Gem of the Day

Today’s Mazda Gem of the Day was spotted for sale in Tampa, FL, and sold within a few days. It’s no wonder: this 2006 Mazdaspeed6 had just 26,684 miles when listed for sale at $14,995.

It’s tough to find such a low-mileage example of this turbocharged AWD sedan. Trust us, we’ve been looking for one and just missed out on this car.

The Mazdaspeed6 was sold for just three years, from 2006 to 2008, and offered exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Power comes from an MZR 2.3-liter direct-injected turbocharged engine, rated at 274 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.

That’s 114 more horsepower than the standard inline-four Mazda6 and some 59 more horsepower than the V6-equipped Mazda6 of the era.

A high-tech Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive system helps the Mazdaspeed6 put all of that power to the ground.

Exterior enhancements help separate the Mazdaspeed6 from the standard Mazda6.

These include 18-inch alloy wheels, more aggressive front fascia and front fenders, an enlarged grille and rear lip spoiler and upgraded dual exhaust with a built-in rear diffuser. A bulged hood is fitted to accommodate the top-mount intercooler.

The Mazdaspeed6 sport sedan is becoming increasingly rare to see out on the road or for sale online.

But if you can find one, it’s a great alternative to the more popular Mazdaspeed3 hatchback, especially if you could use some extra rear legroom in your next performance car.

Here’s what MotorWeek had to say about the Mazdaspeed6 when it debuted for 2006: