Mazda 6 vs. Peugeot 508: Complete comparison 2026

The Mazda 6, also sold as the Mazda Atenza in some markets, has long been sought after for its excellent driving characteristics, timeless design, and premium interior craftsmanship, which proudly competes even with more expensive mid-size cars. On the other hand, there is the Peugeot 508, which brings an unmistakable French avant-garde flair to this segment thanks to its striking sporty silhouette, futuristic i-Cockpit dashboard concept, and high driving comfort. Both of these distinctive models represent an exceptionally attractive alternative to traditional fleet mainstays, which is why in our detailed comparison, we will focus on which of them will be the better choice for you on the nearly-new used car market.

When looking at the exterior dimensions of these two popular mid-size cars, considering the roughly four-year-old generations sought after on the used car market (the second-generation Peugeot 508 and the post-facelift GJ-generation Mazda 6), we encounter very interesting differences that clearly define their character. Mazda 6 is a longer car overall, with its elegant sedan version measuring an impressive 4,870 mm. That is a significant 120 mm more than the dynamically styled Peugeot 508 in its base version, which uses a more practical fifth door and is referred to as a hatchback or fastback (4,750 mm). A very interesting point about the Japanese Mazda is its unusual approach to body dimensions – the more family-oriented and logically larger estate version is paradoxically 65 mm shorter than the sedan. The French competitor follows more traditional proportions, with the SW estate version growing slightly in length to 4,778 mm. In conclusion, if easier maneuvering in tight underground garages is key for you, the more compact dimensions of the Peugeot 508 represent an indisputable advantage, while the longer Mazda 6 will please drivers looking for the more majestic appearance of a classic limousine.

In terms of overall road presence—width and height—both manufacturers follow a different philosophy. The Peugeot 508 immediately catches the eye with its very specific, sporty, low-slung silhouette. With a height of just 1,403 mm (hatchback), it is nearly five centimeters lower than the Mazda 6 sedan, and it also offers a 19 mm wider body (1,859 mm compared to 1,840 mm for the Japanese car). This combination of a wide track and low center of gravity gives the Peugeot an incredibly aggressive look and excellent stability. However, the price for this attractive design is paid when getting in and in terms of rear passenger headroom, where the sloping roof can interfere with taller passengers. The Mazda 6 sticks to more traditional proportions with a height of up to 1,480 mm (estate), which provides a more natural entry into the cabin and a more airy interior. It logically follows that the Peugeot 508 scores with customers who prefer visual drama and a truly sporty driving position, while the Mazda 6 offers a much better compromise for everyday user comfort and easy entry for the whole family.

A crucial parameter for interior longitudinal space is the wheelbase. Here again, the Japanese anomaly, which is quite unique in the automotive world, comes into play. The Mazda 6 sedan features a generous wheelbase of 2,830 mm, ensuring regal legroom for second-row passengers. However, in its estate version, the wheelbase is significantly shortened to just 2,750 mm, which the automaker justifies as an effort to maintain maximum driving agility for a car with a heavier rear end. In contrast, the Peugeot 508 offers an identical wheelbase of 2,793 mm for both of its body variants (hatchback and SW estate). The French representative thus provides a solid standard value that you can rely on regardless of which body shape you choose. The result is a rather surprising finding: for maximum rear-seat space in a limousine, the Mazda 6 sedan is the clear winner, but if you are buying a family estate, the Peugeot 508 paradoxically offers more longitudinal space.

Luggage capacity is one of the key parameters when choosing a used mid-size car, as these vehicles often serve as primary family cruisers. Customers expect versatile usability from them, whether for daily commuting, transporting sports equipment, or weekend shopping. Both the Mazda 6 and the Peugeot 508 offer plenty of space inside, but their different body styles bring varying levels of everyday practicality, which is particularly noticeable in the base shorter versions of both models.

While the Mazda 6 sticks to a traditional sedan design for its shorter version, with a boot capacity of 480 litres, the second-generation Peugeot 508 opted for an attractive and more practical five-door liftback (also referred to as a hatchback in some data). The French car thus offers a base space of 487 litres, which can expand to 1537 litres with the rear seats folded. However, the main advantage of the Peugeot lies in its large tailgate, which allows for easy access to the cargo. Loading bulkier items into the elegant Mazda sedan is significantly more difficult due to the limited opening of the rear section.

In the popular and sought-after estate version, the competition is more balanced. The Mazda 6 Estate offers a solid 522 litres, which is perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping or a longer holiday. Folding the rear seats creates a storage area with a total volume of 1664 litres. However, the Peugeot 508 SW provides even more space overall – it has 530 litres in its base configuration, and with the seats folded, the maximum value grows to a generous 1780 litres. In practice, this means welcome room for a few extra suitcases. A major competitive advantage for the Peugeot is also the fact that the popular plug-in hybrid versions did not suffer any loss in volume; the batteries are cleverly integrated into the floor, so the boot capacity remains exactly the same as in the purely internal combustion engine versions.

When choosing a practical car for a family or an active lifestyle, towing capacity is often a decisive factor, whether you plan to tow a caravan for a long holiday or just occasionally attach a trailer sufficient for weekend shopping. Focusing on popular models roughly four years old (available on the used market around 2022), the two manufacturers' approaches to trailer weight differ quite significantly.

The Japanese Mazda 6 (GJ generation) bets on balance and a reliable standard. Most of its petrol engines from the SKYACTIV-G series can easily handle a braked trailer weighing 1300 to 1500 kg. If you opt for the fuel-efficient SKYACTIV-D diesel units, the maximum permissible trailer weight increases to a solid 1600 kg. This standard performance provides a reliable reserve that easily accommodates medium-heavy loads or offers space for a few extra suitcases in a towed trailer.

Conversely, the French Peugeot 508 (2nd generation) shows a much wider range of values, which is closely linked to the chosen engine. Its absolute maximum is the proven 2.0 BlueHDi diesel, which can tow heavy trailers weighing up to 1800 kg. This makes it an excellent choice for owners of large caravans. However, the situation is completely different for modern plug-in hybrid powertrains and the top-of-the-line PSE sports version. Here, the higher weight of the batteries and drive systems has a negative impact, limiting the braked trailer capacity to just 1260 to 1340 kg. Such values restrict the car's towing use more to lighter loads or transporting garden equipment.

Unfortunately, specific factory values for unbraked trailers for these models do not appear in the available data. However, based on technical conventions and legislative limits for mid-size vehicles, a standard value of 750 kg can usually be expected. The choice between these two cars thus directly depends on your preferences: the Mazda 6 represents predictable certainty, while the Peugeot 508 excels in its 2.0-litre diesel specification but requires certain towing compromises as a hybrid.

While the Mazda 6 and Peugeot 508 belong to the same class of executive cars, their approach to powertrains is diametrically opposed and beautifully illustrates the differing philosophies of the two automakers. From the perspective of the nearly-new used car market, the Japanese Mazda sticks to the proven path with larger naturally aspirated engines that appeal with their linear power delivery and unparalleled long-term reliability. In contrast, the French Peugeot bets fully on modern trends – downsizing, turbocharging, and massive electrification. Peugeot appeals to forward-thinking drivers with a wide range of plug-in hybrids that can be exceptionally efficient with daily charging, and at the top of the range, it crushes the competition with immense power. The difference is also palpable in the area of transmissions; while the Mazda 6 still delights traditionalists with the option of a precise manual gearbox, you will find four-year-old Peugeot 508s almost exclusively with a comfortable eight-speed automatic.

The engine range for the last generation of the Mazda 6 has shrunk in recent years due to emission standards, gradually focusing almost exclusively on SKYACTIV-G petrol units. These engines intentionally avoid turbochargers, benefit from an unusually high compression ratio, and delight with very modest fuel consumption in real-world driving. The base is a two-litre with 107 kW or 121 kW, but the real highlight for more demanding drivers is the popular 2.5 SKYACTIV-G engine with 143 kW, which is paired exclusively with a reliable six-speed automatic. If you were looking for a diesel powertrain, until recently the Mazda 6 offered the powerful and agile 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel in versions with 110 kW and 135 kW. However, due to tightening European regulations, these diesel engines definitively disappeared from production after 2021. Therefore, you must be even more careful when searching for them among four-year-old used cars – you will encounter them rather rarely. Furthermore, the estate version of the more powerful diesel could also be equipped with practical all-wheel drive.

In contrast, the second-generation Peugeot 508 offers a range of units focused on modern technology and on-paper efficiency. Standard models from recent production are built on the turbocharged 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol and the 1.5 BlueHDi four-cylinder diesel, both featuring an identical output of 96 kW. Both are standardly tuned with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which ensures a smooth ride. For older models around the 2020 and 2021 production years, you may still occasionally come across the larger 2.0 BlueHDi diesels or the potent 1.6 PureTech four-cylinders in the listings, but these classic internal combustion engines subsequently disappeared from the price lists entirely. They were replaced by electrified powertrains. The nearly-new used car market thus offers a generous representation of plug-in hybrids (PHEV) consisting of a 1.6-litre engine supplemented by an electric motor, with a total output of 133 kW or 165 kW. The absolute pinnacle for enthusiastic drivers is the high-performance PSE (Peugeot Sport Engineered) variant – it integrates two electric motors, boasts all-wheel drive, lightning-fast reactions, and a massive system output of 265 kW (360 hp). In a straight line, it can easily leave even the most powerful Mazda model behind.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for long-term satisfaction, and our recommendations are based on real-world experience, fuel consumption in traffic, and mechanical reliability. The approach of both manufacturers to power units is completely different – while Mazda, with the GJ generation (2013–2024), completely ignored European downsizing trends and offers unique naturally aspirated petrol engines with an extremely high compression ratio of 14:1, Peugeot, with the second generation of the 508 model (since 2018), switched to small-displacement turbos and powerful diesels with complex multi-stage exhaust gas treatment. From a used car market perspective, this presents buyers with a clear choice between honest mechanical simplicity and modern turbocharged efficiency.

As can be seen from the table above, Peugeot's excellent 2.0-liter diesel ceased production as early as 2020. In the segment of approximately four-year-old used cars (around the 2022 model year), you will unfortunately no longer find it and will have to either choose from older years or resort to the newer, but more maintenance-risky, smaller 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engine.

For the Mazda 6, we recommend: 2.5 SKYACTIV-G 194

This large-displacement naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 143 kW is an absolute certainty in terms of used cars and represents the most sensible choice in the entire model range (especially as a safer alternative to the 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel units, which in their earlier stages struggled with problematic oil dilution by diesel). The engine offers beautifully linear pull, works exemplary with the standard classic torque converter automatic, and its real-world consumption surprisingly easily stays between 7 and 8 liters of petrol per 100 km. The absence of a turbocharger makes it structurally very robust and significantly less prone to carbon buildup, making it a versatile companion whether you are pounding the motorways or commuting daily in the city. When buying a used car, only watch out for newer versions equipped with a cylinder deactivation system – during a test drive at a steady speed with a very light foot, the car should not transmit any resonance or inappropriate vibrations into the interior. If you give it regular service with an oil change at least every 15,000 km, it is a car ready to serve for many years completely without trouble.

For the Peugeot 508, we recommend: 2.0 BlueHDi 160 / 180

If you long for a reliable French executive sedan or estate and spend a lot of time on the road, the best power unit is clearly the massive 2.0-liter diesel, sold in versions with 120 or 130 kW. It offers the driver a fantastic torque of 400 Nm from very low revs, above-average cabin soundproofing, and with the excellent eight-speed Aisin gearbox (EAT8), it forms a perfectly relaxed combo with consumption safely under 6 liters of diesel per 100 km. However, if you are strictly aiming for a roughly four-year-old used car, you must accept the information that this engine has not been installed in the car since 2020 and was replaced by the smaller 1.5 BlueHDi four-cylinder (with that one, monitor the condition of the risky chain between the camshafts extremely carefully, as it tends to snap in DV5 engines). For the 2.0-liter itself, typical modern diesel rules apply – the car does not belong in frequent cold city hopping, otherwise you will quickly clog the diesel particulate filter (DPF). During a physical inspection, focus in detail on the history of engine and UREA emission system warning lights; in PSA Group cars, these often foreshadow a failure of the pump in the AdBlue injection module, leading to the need to replace the entire and relatively expensive tank.

The difference between official fuel consumption figures and the harsh reality of daily driving is often vast in modern cars. To get the most accurate picture possible, we rely on real-world averages from the independent community portal Spritmonitor.de, which collects long-term statistics from thousands of actual owners. Given the demand in the used car market, we are focusing on models approximately four years old – specifically the facelifted Mazda 6 (GJ generation) and the second-generation Peugeot 508. From a fuel perspective, this is an exceptionally attractive battle between two different engineering approaches: classic Japanese naturally aspirated engines versus the French school of downsizing and electrification.

Data source: Spritmonitor.de

Interesting trends are clearly visible when interpreting the collected data. In the field of diesel engines, the smaller 1.5 BlueHDi unit from Peugeot remains the king of efficiency, with which it is possible to drive under 5 liters with a very light foot, and the average stays safely at a great 5.3 l/100 km. However, Mazda's 2.2-liter SKYACTIV-D diesel in its base power version shows that even a larger displacement doesn't necessarily mean high fuel bills, and in a direct comparison, it even narrowly beats the more powerful French two-liter. The biggest surprises, however, are hidden in the petrol engines. Peugeot's small-displacement three-cylinder 1.2 PureTech does not save fuel as effectively as one might expect from the spec sheets. A difference of less than a liter compared to the characterful and reliable 2.0 SKYACTIV-G shows that the naturally aspirated Japanese concept still pays off, especially since the consumption of larger engines does not increase dramatically even on the highway. The plug-in hybrid version of the Peugeot is a chapter in itself – although it can drive for as little as two liters, the overall real-world average of 4.5 l/100 km reflects the fact that not every user faithfully charges the car from the grid every day.

For the average driver, a clear recommendation emerges from these values. If you are a driver who crosses the country daily on highways and keeps a close eye on your budget, the small diesel from Peugeot is an unbeatable workhorse that will save the most money. For users commuting from the suburbs to the city, or for shorter highway trips, the naturally aspirated petrol from Mazda is a very strong argument. The higher consumption of less than a liter of fuel per 100 kilometers for the two-liter is compensated for by reliability and smooth operation without the complications of turbochargers or particulate filters typical of diesels. Investing in a hybrid 508 then makes perfect sense only if you have the opportunity to charge cheaply at home and at work.

Fuel consumption is therefore a strong deciding factor in this duel. While the Peugeot 508 can deliver the absolute minimum in operating costs in its diesel versions during highway driving, the Mazda 6 scores with unprecedented predictability – its large engines always maintain a great balance between dynamics and adequate fuel consumption, regardless of how aggressive a driving style you choose.

When looking for a roughly four-year-old used car from the 2021 to 2022 model years, you will encounter completely different depreciation curves for these two mid-size executive cars. While the Japanese representative attracts buyers with very stable prices thanks to its desirable and reliable engines, its French competitor suffers from a steeper drop in value. However, a savvy used car buyer on the secondary market can benefit significantly from this.

Mazda 6: Slow depreciation and desirable naturally aspirated petrol engines

The Mazda 6 holds its value exceptionally well on the used car market. Buyers in used car dealerships are most interested in the reliable 2.0 Skyactiv-G and 2.5 Skyactiv-G petrol engines. These are unique in the mid-size car class due to their non-turbocharged design, which suggests a lower risk of expensive repairs for used car buyers.

• Basic and popular models: Prices for four-year-old petrol units in more common trim levels typically start around €20,000 on the market.
• Higher trims and more powerful engines: For versions with the top-of-the-line 2.5 Skyactiv-G engine (143 kW) and in premium trims (such as Revolution or Takumi) with mileage up to 100,000 km, prices easily range between €23,000 and €27,000.
• Diesel engines: Vehicles powered by 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesels often sell for slightly less. Due to historically weaker demand and buyer caution regarding these engines, they can be found even below the €18,000 mark.

Peugeot 508: Extreme advantage for second-hand buyers

The second-generation Peugeot 508 is a relatively expensive car according to the price list, but on the used car market, the situation plays into the hands of buyers. The extravagant design and the rise of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technologies result in high depreciation. For those interested in a four-year-old car, this means massive financial savings compared to buying a new one.

• Affordable entry point: Popular diesel versions with the economical 1.5 BlueHDi engine or basic petrol engines can be found after four years of operation for prices ranging from €16,000 to €18,000.
• Plug-in hybrids and GT trim: Those interested in more eco-friendly PHEV versions and visually striking models in the GT Line most often pay between €21,000 and €25,000.
• Interesting fact about the sporty extreme: A prime example of massive price depreciation is the sport-tuned 508 PSE (Peugeot Sport Engineered) model. This car cost nearly €74,000 when new. As a used car from 2021–2022, it can often be found today with a price tag well below €33,000. A loss of roughly €41,000 in four years represents a unique opportunity to acquire a luxury car for a fraction of its original value.

Overview of indicative market prices (2021–2022 vehicles)

Both cars boast a maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests, which is always reassuring news for used car buyers. However, when comparing safety, it is necessary to take into account the context and the year of testing. Euro NCAP methodology is constantly evolving and becoming stricter – tests from earlier years did not include such demanding simulations as cyclist detection or emergency braking at intersections. Percentage results thus cannot be directly compared across different years. In this specific case, however, we have a unique opportunity for direct comparison, as both models underwent homologation in the same year (2018) according to the same, then newly tightened methodology. While the validity of these certifications formally expires after six to seven years (as recently happened with the Peugeot), for the market of roughly four-year-old used cars, these results represent a fully valid and highly relevant measure of robustness and active safety.

The Mazda 6 (tested in 2018) achieved excellent results for its time, also thanks to the stiffer SKYACTIV body and the improved i-ACTIVSENSE assistance system package. Adult occupant protection stands at a great 95%, and the car excels in child protection with an above-average rating of 91%. Vulnerable road user protection (pedestrians and cyclists) reached 66%, and assistance systems earned a solid 73%. This data shows that the Mazda 6 benefits from the reliable operation of advanced automatic emergency braking and a strong emphasis on family safety, although it lost a few points in pedestrian protection due to the sharper shapes of the front body parts.

The Peugeot 508 also underwent testing in 2018 (with subsequent confirmation of the rating's validity for hybrid versions) and showed a very balanced performance across all measured categories. In adult occupant protection, it managed to beat the Mazda by one percentage point (96%), but lagged slightly in child protection (86%). The French model, however, gained very valuable points in the vulnerable road user protection rating (71%) and, thanks to an advanced camera and traffic sign and speed limit recognition systems, achieved an overall better result in the safety assist category (79%).

In conclusion, both cars offer a highly modern and comprehensive level of passive and active safety on the used car market. The Peugeot 508 is a slight overall favorite from the Euro NCAP perspective thanks to slightly better assistance systems and slightly higher consideration for pedestrians, but the Mazda 6 remains unsurpassed when maximum protection for children in the rear seats is your absolute priority.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer. Although both cars target the same mid-size segment, their approach to added value, technology, and overall driving feel differs diametrically.

Mazda 6: Perfect harmony with the driver and honest mechanics

The Japanese automaker has long relied on the Jinba Ittai philosophy (unity of horse and rider) for this model, which is reflected in a specific approach to technology and ergonomics. The Mazda 6 does not try to dazzle with futuristic displays, but rather with a precise driving experience.

• Engines and technology: Mazda avoids the trend of radical downsizing. Instead of small-displacement turbo engines, it offers naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engines with 2.0 and 2.5-liter displacements. These engines are characterized by linear power delivery, reliability, and real-world fuel consumption that very closely matches the official figures.
• Chassis and electronics: The unique G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC+) system subtly and imperceptibly adjusts engine torque and brakes individual wheels when cornering. The result is smoother weight transfers, less body roll, and less passenger fatigue on winding roads.
• Infotainment and ergonomics: Unlike most competitors, Mazda limits touchscreen control while driving. Instead, it relies on an excellent rotary commander (HMI) on the center console. This system is highly intuitive, draws minimal attention away from driving, and is reminiscent of solutions found in premium vehicles.
• Comfort and luxury materials: In higher trim levels (such as Takumi), Mazda shocks with its interior quality. It offers premium materials like fine Nappa leather, real Japanese Sen wood trim, or Ultrasuede synthetic suede elements, confidently rivaling German premium brands.

Peugeot 508: Avant-garde style and digital revolution

The French representative, on the other hand, is the embodiment of automotive avant-garde. The Peugeot 508 appeals to emotions with its dynamic appearance and massive use of the latest technologies, making it one of the most distinctive cars on the used car market in this class.

• Design and body: The Peugeot 508 stands out with its sleek fastback silhouette and unique frameless door windows, a feature usually reserved for luxury coupes. The characteristic light signature with LED "fangs" for daytime running lights gives the car an aggressive and unmistakable presence on the road.
• Ergonomics and i-Cockpit: The interior is defined by the i-Cockpit system. It combines an unusually small, sportily shaped steering wheel with a high-mounted digital instrument cluster that the driver looks at over the steering wheel rim, not through it. This layout provides a fighter-jet cockpit feel and quick response to changes in direction.
• Engines and electrification: Unlike Mazda, Peugeot offers a wide range of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains. These allow for grid charging and a pure electric range of around 40–50 kilometers, ideal for quiet and locally emission-free daily commuting in the city.
• Advanced assistance systems: A huge advantage of Peugeot's technological equipment is the Night Vision system. An infrared camera hidden in the front grille can detect pedestrians or animals in the dark or fog before they are illuminated by the main headlights, warning the driver on the digital display.
• Sport version: For demanding drivers, the top-tier Peugeot Sport Engineered (PSE) division is available. This specific plug-in hybrid version offers 360 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a sharply tuned sports chassis and body kit, significantly livening up the model's lineup.

Mazda 6 is a perfect choice for enthusiastic drivers who appreciate classic naturally aspirated engines, precise driving dynamics, and traditional, easy-to-use ergonomics. It will primarily suit those for whom the driving experience and long-term reliability are more important than maximum boot capacity or the latest digital gadgets.

The Peugeot 508 will appeal to those looking for fresh French style, a premium look, and high acoustic and chassis comfort. It is an ideal car for those who prefer modern technology, want to take advantage of hybrid power, and are willing to make a slight compromise on rear-seat space in favor of stunning design.

Based on long-term user experience, service reports, and independent professional inspections, such as our comprehensive used car check CarAudit, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of used cars around four years old should watch out for.

The third generation of the Mazda 6 (after the significant facelift in 2018) is considered one of the most reliable cars in the mid-size class, yet certain specific faults can occur.

• Bodywork and exterior: Owners often complain about the thin layer of paint, which is very susceptible to stone chips and minor scratches. A very common and typical fault is the failure of the electric folding motors for the exterior mirrors, which stop working over time.
• Infotainment: The MZD Connect multimedia system in some cars can suffer from the so-called "ghost touch" effect (spontaneous touch screen response) or gradual delamination (peeling) of the anti-reflective and touch layer of the display.
• Petrol engines (Skyactiv-G): The 2.0 and 2.5-litre petrol engines are exceptionally reliable mechanically. The only minor drawback can be carbon buildup on the intake valves due to direct injection, especially if the car is used mainly for short city trips.
• Diesel engines (Skyactiv-D): Although the reliability of the 2.2 Skyactiv-D engines has significantly improved in the final years of production, on short trips there is still a risk of engine oil dilution with diesel due to incomplete particulate filter (DPF) regenerations.
• Chassis: A frequent ailment is the susceptibility to premature brake wear, manifesting as unpleasant vibrations in the steering wheel due to warped front brake discs.

The second generation of the Peugeot 508 bets on avant-garde design and modern technology, which also brings specific challenges associated with electronics and body construction.

• Bodywork and exterior: Elegant frameless windows bring practical difficulties. In winter months, they tend to freeze to the seals, which can cause damage to the window regulators. Wear of the rubber seals then often causes increased aerodynamic noise inside the cabin at highway speeds.
• Electronics and infotainment: With the i-Cockpit system, owners quite often encounter software glitches. Typical issues include freezing screens, temporary Bluetooth pairing dropouts, or a missing image from the rear parking camera. The solution is usually regular software updates.
• Diesel engines (BlueHDi): In the popular 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engine, there were problems with a too-narrow 7mm chain connecting the camshafts, which could break. Newer models (from roughly 2020) and repaired cars use a more durable 8mm chain. Also, watch out for the well-known problem with urea (AdBlue) pumps and tanks, which affects most diesel cars from the Stellantis group.
• Petrol engines (PureTech): The updated 1.6 PureTech engines are significantly more reliable than the older THP generation. However, they are very sensitive to neglected maintenance. They require strict adherence to service intervals and high-quality oil; otherwise, they face increased oil consumption and carbon buildup.
• Transmission: The eight-speed torque converter automatic (EAT8) from Aisin is durable and works well. However, if transmission oil changes are neglected in the long term, the automatic can occasionally jerk noticeably when downshifting at lower speeds.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is crucial, and although both vehicles are reliable representatives of the mid-size class, they have their specifics and weak points that need to be watched out for.

When choosing a Mazda 6:

• Chassis condition and anti-corrosion protection: Although corrosion protection in the final years of the third generation is significantly better than in the past, a Physical inspection of a used car should always carefully examine axle components, the lower part of the frame, and the wheel arches, especially if the car was driven in areas with heavy winter salting.
• Functionality of folding mirrors and infotainment: Try folding and unfolding the exterior mirrors several times in a row. The plastic gear mechanism wears out quite often, and the mirror gets stuck. On the MZD Connect system's center display, look for signs of "ghost touches" (spontaneous screen presses), which occur on some faulty touch panels due to heat.
• 2.2 Skyactiv-D engine specifics: If you are buying the diesel variant, ask for the exact oil change history. During the test drive, monitor the smoothness of the pull. These engines can suffer from oil dilution with diesel during incomplete diesel particulate filter (DPF) regenerations and excessive carbon buildup in the intake.
• Automatic transmission operation: The six-speed torque converter automatic is normally very reliable and robust. During the test drive, shifting should be perfectly smooth and imperceptible. If the transmission jerks noticeably when downshifting or starting off, it may be a sign that the oil has never been changed.
• Cylinder deactivation on the 2.5 Skyactiv-G: The more powerful gasoline four-cylinder is equipped with a system that shuts down two cylinders under low load. Watch whether the transition between two-cylinder and four-cylinder modes (typically at a steady highway speed) is smooth. If unusual rattling or vibration is heard, it could be a problem with the system control.

When choosing a Peugeot 508:

• Aerodynamic noise around frameless windows: Beautiful design can take its toll. During the test drive, be sure to accelerate above 100 km/h and turn down the radio. Listen for significant noise or wind whistling through the door and window seals. Over time, windows can lose proper pressure or have damaged rubber seals.
• Timing chain on the 1.5 BlueHDi: If you are buying the popular smaller diesel, listen closely to the sound of the upper part of the engine during a cold start. The original thin 7mm chain connecting the camshafts sometimes didn't last and could damage the engine. A comprehensive car inspection should ideally determine if the engine has already undergone the upgrade to the more robust 8mm variant.
• Battery condition and smoothness in the PHEV (Plug-in hybrid): For hybrid versions, fully charge the battery and monitor the trip computer for the estimated pure electric range. During the drive, pay attention to the coordination of the eight-speed automatic with the electric motor. The switch from combustion to electric mode must not be accompanied by strong jolts.
• System speed and i-Cockpit: Control of the air conditioning and most other systems is done exclusively via the central display. Test how quickly the system responds immediately after starting. In older software versions, the infotainment can "freeze" excessively, making it difficult to, for example, defog the windows.
• Front axle noise: The Peugeot 508 has a specifically tuned chassis that is comfortable but can sometimes thump dully on transverse bumps. Take the car on cobblestones or a broken road and listen for excessive metallic sounds. Typical wear after more than 100,000 km affects control arm bushings and stabilizer links.

Sources: ADAC, lidovky.cz, forbes.cz, hybrid.cz, autozive.cz, transport.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.