Mazda 6 vs. Škoda Superb: Complete comparison 2026

The Mazda 6, also known as the Mazda Atenza in selected Asian markets, is an attractive representative of the mid-size class that has long attracted drivers primarily with its emotive design and sporty driving characteristics. Standing against it is the extremely popular Škoda Superb, which has built a reputation among customers as the uncrowned king of space thanks to its top-tier travel comfort and unrivaled everyday practicality. Let's take a detailed look at how this direct battle between Japanese dynamics and the Czech sense for family and executive use turns out, and which of these cars represents the better choice for your needs.

Exterior Dimensions and Overall Silhouette

When comparing the exterior dimensions of both cars, we encounter interesting differences that clearly define their distinct characters. Focusing on models roughly four years old (the third generation of the Škoda Superb and the GJ generation of the Mazda 6), we find that for the sedan/liftback body styles, the length values are surprisingly close. The Mazda 6 Sedan measures an impressive 4,870 mm, surpassing the Škoda Superb liftback (4,869 mm) by a negligible 1 mm. However, for the more practical family variants, the situation is quite different – the Superb Estate with a length of 4,862 mm is 57 mm longer than the Mazda 6 Estate (4,805 mm). In everyday life, this means both cars require plenty of parking space, but the Škoda estate offers a slightly more substantial rear overhang, which is strongly and positively reflected in the total luggage compartment volume.

Width and Height

The width and height of a vehicle play a crucial role not only in interior airiness and the sense of space but also in aerodynamics and driving stability. The Škoda Superb, at 1,864 mm, is 24 mm wider than the Mazda 6 (1,840 mm). While this difference might make maneuvering and parking in narrow underground garages slightly more difficult, it provides passengers with significantly more shoulder room in return. As for height, the Mazda 6 maintains a noticeably sportier and lower-slung silhouette. Its sedan measures only 1,450 mm in height, while the Superb reaches 1,469 mm. Thanks to its overall lower build, the Japanese representative benefits from a lower center of gravity, which the driver will appreciate especially during dynamic cornering. The Czech model, on the other hand, bets on a more conservative cut that ensures easier entry and more generous headroom.

Wheelbase and Interior Roominess

A key parameter for passenger comfort, especially in the rear seats, is the wheelbase. Here, the Škoda Superb fully demonstrates its dominant position on the border between the mid-size and executive classes. With a wheelbase of 2,841 mm (which is identical for both the liftback and estate), it clearly beats the Mazda 6 Estate (2,750 mm) and slightly exceeds the Mazda sedan (2,830 mm). The massive 91 mm difference between the two estates means, in practice, that the Superb offers rear passengers literally royal knee room that the Mazda simply cannot match. Paradoxically, the shorter wheelbase of the Mazda 6 Estate contributes to better agility and a greater willingness to turn, confirming that when choosing between these two cars, you are primarily choosing between absolute family comfort and driving passion.

Exterior Dimensions Table

When choosing a used mid-size car, typically around four years old, luggage compartment volume is a key factor for many families and managers. This is where the differing philosophies of the two manufacturers are clearly shown. While the Mazda 6 (GJ generation) emphasizes elegant design and a sporty silhouette, the third-generation Škoda Superb is traditionally designed with maximum practicality and unrivaled interior space in mind. This difference is very noticeable in practice, whether you're planning a weekend shopping trip or a long family vacation.

Looking at the exact figures, the Czech representative literally outclasses its Japanese competition. The Škoda Superb in the liftback version offers a massive basic volume of 625 liters, while the Mazda 6 sedan provides a more modest 480 liters. This difference is even more striking in the popular, more practical versions. The Škoda Superb Estate holds a fantastic 660 liters in its basic configuration, while the Mazda 6 Estate counters with 522 liters. In practice, the difference of nearly 140 liters in favor of the Superb means space for several extra suitcases, which is invaluable especially when packing for a long holiday or transporting bulky strollers.

The differences become even more pronounced when assessing the maximum capacity after folding the rear seats. With a volume of 1,950 litres, the Superb Estate turns into a small van, while the Mazda 6 Estate offers a respectable but smaller 1,648 litres. The Superb Liftback can handle 1,760 litres when folded, and the Mazda 6 Sedan reaches approximately 1,648 litres. However, it is very important to mention one technical exception – if you opt for the modern plug-in hybrid version of the Škoda Superb, labelled iV, the boot capacity is reduced to 485 litres for the liftback and 510 litres for the estate due to the battery placement, making the values of both cars practically equal. In conclusion, if moving capacity and a boot sufficient for any situation are your absolute priority, the Superb is the clear choice. But if you are looking for a more attractive sporty design and a standard family boot is enough for you, the Mazda 6 will certainly not disappoint.

When choosing a used family car or a mid-size estate, the towing weight often plays a very important role, not only for caravan owners but also for active drivers who need to transport heavier loads. When comparing models approximately four years old (the third generation of the Škoda Superb and the GJ generation of the Mazda 6), you will encounter quite fundamental differences. While the Czech representative is considered one of the strongest towers in its class, the Japanese model is designed more for sporty driving, which has slightly affected its towing capabilities.

The Mazda 6 GJ generation can standardly tow 1,500 kg on a braked trailer, in the case of all popular 2.0 and 2.5 Skyactiv-G petrol engines. If you opt for the 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel version, the limit moves only very slightly to a maximum of 1,600 kg. In practice, this means that the Mazda can easily handle a regular weekend purchase of building materials, towing a smaller recreational boat, or a lighter caravan. However, its construction is not built for heavier loads.

In contrast, the 3rd generation Škoda Superb offers a completely different league of towing capacities. Even the basic 1.5 TSI petrol engine can handle 1,600 kg. The plug-in hybrid Superb iV (1.4 TSI PHEV) has the same value, where the capacity is reduced due to the additional weight of the batteries. But if you reach for more powerful engines, completely different possibilities open up. Most versions of the popular 2.0 TDI diesel engine (from 110 kW upwards) can tow 2,000 kg, and for more powerful variants or all-wheel-drive versions, it can even be a maximum of 2,200 kg. The top 2.0 TSI petrol versions also handle the same 2,200 kg portion. In practice, the Superb offers you the freedom to attach a large twin-axle family caravan, a heavy horse trailer, or a trailer with another vehicle that would otherwise require a large SUV.

In conclusion:
If you plan to use the tow bar mainly for occasional trips to the DIY store or for a bike rack, the Mazda 6 will easily satisfy your requirements. For users who spend their holidays with a large caravan or need a reliable workhorse for regular towing of heavy weights, the Škoda Superb is an absolutely clear and significantly more versatile choice.

The engines of the Mazda 6 and Škoda Superb models represent two completely different engineering approaches, which is absolutely crucial for those interested in an approximately four-year-old used car (models from 2021–2022) when making a final decision. While Škoda relies fully on turbocharged engines (TSI and TDI) with massive torque at low revs and expands its range with plug-in hybrid technology (iV), Mazda has remained one of the last proud defenders of large-displacement naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines. In practice, this means a choice between the punchy turbo boost and lightning-fast shifts of the DSG dual-clutch transmissions in the Superb versus the incredibly smooth, linear pull and classic torque converter automatic in the Mazda. The Škoda will be the ideal choice for highway cruisers or drivers requiring all-wheel drive (4x4), while the Mazda will appeal to more traditionally minded motorists who appreciate driving purity and the expectation of high long-term reliability resulting from the absence of a turbocharger.

Mazda 6: Naturally aspirated tradition and smoothness

For the GJ generation (focusing on used cars from the 2021–2022 period), the Mazda 6 range is defined primarily by its petrol engines labelled SKYACTIV-G. These units work with an unusually high compression ratio, which ensures immediate throttle response and refined operation. The base is the 2.0 SKYACTIV-G engine, available in versions with 107 kW (145 hp) or a more powerful 121 kW (165 hp). Both variants can be paired with a precise manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. The true peak is the reliable 2.5 SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder with 143 kW (194 hp), supplied exclusively with an automatic transmission. This engine also features a cylinder deactivation system to reduce consumption during steady driving. The 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel engines (110 kW and 135 kW), which previously offered massive torque and optional all-wheel drive, were discontinued in most European markets around 2021 due to emission standards. In used car dealerships in the segment of roughly four-year-old vehicles, you will encounter a diesel Mazda 6 relatively rarely.

\Note: Sales and production of 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel engines for the European market were phased out for this generation in early 2021.*

Škoda Superb: A wide range with an emphasis on turbochargers

The third generation of the Škoda Superb (in the modernised facelift version from 2019–2023) counters with an incomparably wider and more diverse range of powertrains, all of which rely on turbocharging. The petrol base consists of the refined and efficient 1.5 TSI four-cylinder with 110 kW (150 hp), equipped with cylinder deactivation technology (ACT). More dynamically minded drivers will opt for the 2.0 TSI engines. These offer 140 kW (190 hp) for the motorway, or in the top-of-the-range version, a full 206 kW (280 hp), which comes standard with 4x4 drive. For drivers covering tens of thousands of kilometres a year, the economical 2.0 TDI Evo diesel engines are available. The weaker variant offers 110 kW (150 hp), while the more powerful version, better suited for a heavy car, generates 147 kW (200 hp). In this generation, the Superb also introduced the highly sought-after 1.4 TSI iV model – a plug-in hybrid that combines a 1.4-litre petrol engine and an electric motor for a total system output of 160 kW (218 hp). Except for the very basic engines, cars from this period are almost exclusively paired with the excellently tuned dual-clutch DSG transmission.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely key to long-term satisfaction with a used car, and our recommendations are based on real-world experience, performance, actual fuel consumption, and proven mechanical reliability. When comparing these two popular models, we encounter an interesting contrast between two different engineering approaches. While the Mazda GJ generation (produced and continuously updated between 2012–2024) benefits from extremely reliable naturally aspirated petrol engines with an unusually high compression ratio, the 3rd generation Škoda Superb (2015–2023) excels with its massive range of proven and economical turbocharged diesel units that rely on precise pairing with dual-clutch DSG automatics.

For the Mazda 6, we recommend: 2.5 SKYACTIV-G 194, 143 kW

This 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder represents the absolute peak of the model range in terms of balance, refinement, and trouble-free operation.

• Why it's the best choice: While it is safer to completely avoid the 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel engines in used cars (they have suffered from oil dilution with diesel, oil strainer blockages, and camshaft wear in the past), the 2.5 Skyactiv-G petrol engine is more or less the benchmark for reliability. It offers refined pull, a generous 143 kW of power, and is exclusively paired with a robustly built conventional automatic transmission with a torque converter.
• Technical advantages: The engine uses an extremely high compression ratio by normal car standards, giving it brilliant throttle response and solid torque even at lower revs. Real-world fuel consumption for roughly four-year-old cars, thanks in part to the efficient and completely imperceptible cylinder deactivation system, most often stays between 7 and 8 litres per 100 km in combined use.
• Risks and weaknesses: As this is a direct-injection power unit, its greatest risk is the gradual carbon buildup on the intake valves. This occurs mainly during frequent short and cold city trips. Fortunately, prevention is simple – filling up with high-quality high-octane petrol with cleaning additives, giving the engine a regular healthy "run" at higher revs, and above all, uncompromisingly shortening the oil change interval to a maximum of 15,000 km or one year.
• Who it's suitable for: An ideal candidate for drivers looking for a quiet, dynamic, and exceptionally durable car with reliable Japanese mechanics without complex turbochargers. An absolutely perfect choice for those who easily alternate between long motorway stretches and city driving.

For the Škoda Superb, we recommend: 2.0 TDI SCR, 110 kW

The two-litre turbodiesel from the EA288 engine family (often found in the modernised, cleaner, and quieter Evo version in sought-after four-year-old used cars) is the most natural and by far the most popular choice for a motorway cruiser like the Superb.

• Why it's the best choice: The 110 kW (150 hp) output represents the optimal middle ground. Compared to the smaller 1.6 TDI unit, which struggled considerably in a large and heavy car, especially when fully loaded, the two-litre has a confident dynamic reserve and, conversely, absolutely fantastic reliability. Furthermore, with the dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission, it forms an exceptionally economical and perfectly tuned package.
• Technical advantages: The strongest trump card of this engine is undoubtedly its extreme efficiency. Real combined and motorway consumption moves with great ease in the range of 4.5 to 5.5 l/100 km. Combined with a solid 66-litre fuel tank, this typically ensures a huge range exceeding 1,000 kilometres on a single tank without any stress.
• Risks and weaknesses: When inspecting a used car, closely monitor the history of the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Former company cars driven mainly on short city routes tend to have heavily clogged filters. Another occasional issue with the 2.0 TDI is coolant leaks around a faulty water pump – so keep an eye on the coolant level under the hood. The SCR system with urea injection can also occasionally cause trouble with NOx sensor or AdBlue pump failures. If you choose a variant with the DSG automatic transmission, uncompromisingly demand a service history confirming regular gearbox oil changes every 60,000 km, which will ensure its long life.
• Who it is suitable for: A typical tireless locomotive for motorway flyers, families heading on long holidays, and all drivers spending a huge amount of time on the road who consistently cover more than 20,000 kilometres per year. For short suburban school runs, this diesel unit is absolutely unsuitable – the engine would not have time to warm up, and for such a regime, it makes much more sense to opt for its petrol counterparts, the 1.5 TSI or 2.0 TSI.

Every experienced motorist knows that official consumption figures given by manufacturers in promotional materials often differ significantly from everyday reality. To get an objective picture, it is therefore best to look at real data from drivers themselves in normal traffic. In this comparison, we have relied on data from the popular independent portal Spritmonitor.de, which collects long-term statistics from tens of thousands of users. We focused on models roughly four years old (GJ generation for Mazda and 3rd generation for Škoda), which currently form an exceptionally attractive core of the used car market.

Looking at the real numbers, several interesting trends emerge. The king of efficiency on long journeys remains diesel power, where the Škoda Superb with its proven 2.0 TDI engine achieves an excellent average of 5.5 l/100 km. The Mazda 6 with its larger 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel unit lags only slightly behind, although its larger displacement takes a small toll.

Much more interesting, however, is the comparison of petrol power units. While Škoda bets on downsizing and turbocharging a smaller engine, Mazda stubbornly stands by naturally aspirated engines with larger displacement. The result? The difference in real consumption is nowhere near as vast as the absence of a turbo in the Japanese car might suggest. While the smaller turbocharged 1.5 TSI engine in the Škoda can be a few tenths of a litre more efficient, Mazda's large-displacement naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines score with their consistency – their consumption does not rise as steeply during more dynamic driving or at motorway speeds, where small turbo engines often run out of breath very quickly.

For the typical user, clear recommendations emerge from this data:

• Long distances and motorways: If you spend most of your time swallowing hundreds of kilometres, the diesel variants of both cars (especially the 2.0 TDI) will be the most economical choice for you.
• Suburban traffic and family driving: Petrol variants are a great fit. Here, the 1.5 TSI from Škoda offers pleasantly low operating costs with the advantage of better pull at lower revs.
• Calmer and steady driving: Mazda's naturally aspirated two-litre engines bring comparable operating economy seasoned with an exceptionally smooth character and, in the long run, a lower risk of expensive service repairs.

In conclusion, fuel consumption should not be the sole and main decision criterion in this duel. Both manufacturers have managed to build very economical mid-range vehicles, even though they approached engine development quite differently. The decision should therefore be based more on your personal driving profile, preference for a specific driving character, and overall confidence in the given technological solution.

Looking at the market for roughly four-year-old used cars (2021 and 2022 models), you will encounter a different market reality for both models. While the Škoda Superb is a typical fleet car, which means a huge selection on the secondary market, the Mazda 6 is much rarer and much more often comes from private hands.

Škoda Superb: King of the market offer

Thanks to massive deployment in corporate fleets, the supply of used Superbs is enormous. Diesel engines absolutely dominate the market, especially the popular 2.0 TDI version.

• Cheapest units: Prices start slightly above €16,000. These are usually less equipped models or cars with a motorway history and higher mileage, often exceeding 150,000 km.
• The golden middle ground: The largest selection of verified and well-maintained cars with mileage around 100,000 km ranges between €20,000 and €24,000. In this range, you can choose from many colours and equipment levels (most often Style trim).
• Premium versions: For top-tier trims like Laurin & Klement or Sportline, often combined with all-wheel drive (4x4) and lower mileage, you will pay more. Prices here easily exceed €28,000.

Mazda 6: Petrol exclusivity

Used Mazda 6s from the same production years appear on the market significantly less often. Compared to the Superb, you will practically not come across a diesel here; the offer is dominated by exceptionally reliable naturally aspirated petrol engines (Skyactiv-G).

• Basic offer: Prices for used models usually start around €20,000. Thanks to its reputation as a "reliable workhorse" and limited market supply, the Mazda holds its value relatively well and steadily.
• Higher trims: Well-equipped versions (e.g., Revolution Top, Takumi, or Signature) with the more powerful 2.5-litre petrol engine most often range from €24,000 to roughly €26,000. These are mostly cars with an excellent service history and lower mileage.

Comparison of used car prices (typical models from 2021–2022)

Summary: If your main goal is to keep the purchase price as low as possible and you don't mind higher mileage, the Skoda Superb offers a more affordable starting point and a vast selection of available used cars. The Mazda 6 requires a slightly higher minimum budget and narrows your choice, but it rewards you with fantastic reliability from its petrol engines, very generous standard equipment on most available units, and a lower probability of clocked mileage from corporate fleets.

Both compared vehicles – the Mazda 6 and the Skoda Superb – received the maximum five-star rating in safety tests by the independent organization Euro NCAP. However, when comparing them, it is crucial to consider the context and the specific year the models underwent testing. Euro NCAP methodology is constantly evolving and becoming stricter over time. With each new protocol, more demanding simulations (such as intersection collisions or new overlap tests) are integrated into the tests, and significantly greater emphasis is placed on active safety, including pedestrian and cyclist detection. For this reason, percentage scores from different years are not directly and simply comparable.

Mazda 6: Newer tests with an emphasis on active protection

The Mazda 6, which you will most often encounter on the market as a four-year-old used car, underwent modernized Euro NCAP crash tests in 2018. According to these stricter protocols, the car excelled, achieving an outstanding score of 95% for adult occupant protection and 91% for child occupant protection. The rigid Skyactiv-Body architecture and redesigned crumple zones absorbed impact energy exemplary. Vulnerable road user protection received 66%, with the car benefiting from an active bonnet system that mitigates the risk of serious head injury to a pedestrian upon detecting a collision. In the safety assist category, the car scored 73%, reflecting solid integration of i-ACTIVSENSE technologies, including reliable autonomous emergency braking in the city and lane-keep assist.

Skoda Superb: Robust protection of a family cruiser

Relevant for the four-year-old used car market is the third-generation Skoda Superb, which underwent Euro NCAP tests in 2015. Its five-star rating was at the absolute top at the time. Although the protocols then were less strict than in 2018, the Superb demonstrated extraordinary structural stability. It scored 86% for both adult and child occupant protection, ranking it among the safest choices for families. Pedestrian protection was rated at an above-average 71% for the time, and safety assist systems scored 76%. While the Superb featured a high-quality autonomous braking system, it had not yet been tested for the most modern crisis scenarios (e.g., night-time cyclist detection), which the methodology only began to take into account in later years. (For the sake of completeness, we should add that the brand-new fourth generation from 2024 passed the latest tests with five stars again, but it is not yet commonly found on the traditional used car market).

Final Safety Comparison

From the perspective of current safety standards, the Mazda 6 offers a slightly more modern and comprehensive level of documented protection. Its 2018 certification was already subject to stricter rules, and the percentages achieved (especially the top-tier 95% for adult occupants) demonstrate excellent passive safety according to newer metrics. While the validity of the Skoda Superb's 2015 five-star certification has technically expired from the viewpoint of today's official methodologies and the results do not reflect the latest requirements for smart assistants, it still maintains its status as a massive and very safe vehicle with a robust body that will protect a family without issue.

In addition to standard equipment, both models offer more than just the basics, and each takes a completely different approach to the added value intended to make daily life with the car easier or more pleasant.

Mazda 6: Perfect harmony between driver and car and a premium touch

With this model, the Japanese automaker primarily targets emotions, driving pleasure, and a traditional approach to ergonomics. Instead of trying to digitalize everything at any cost, it focuses on the Jinba Ittai philosophy – the connection between horse and rider.

• Chassis and electronics: The unique G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) system constantly adjusts engine torque and lightly brakes the outer wheels in corners, ensuring smoother weight transfers and much more stable and comfortable cornering without the need for driver intervention.
• Engine concept: While competitors were moving en masse to small-displacement turbo engines, Mazda retained its honest Skyactiv-G naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines (typically 2.0 or 2.5 liters). These excel in immediate throttle response, very smooth power delivery, and are valued on the used car market for their high reliability.
• Infotainment and ergonomics: The navigation and multimedia display is not touch-sensitive while driving. It is operated intuitively using the physical HMI Commander rotary dial on the center console, which significantly reduces distraction from the road. Excellent ergonomics are also aided by a high-quality head-up display, which projects key information directly onto the windshield rather than onto a pop-up plastic screen.
• Equipment lines and comfort: In top-tier versions like the Takumi, Mazda competes with established premium brands. You'll find ventilated front seats, fine Nappa leather, or even decorative elements made from genuine Japanese Sen wood. Buyers looking for a sportier look are often drawn to the Homura version with black accents and distinctive wheels.

Skoda Superb: Royal space and smart solutions for every day

The Czech representative, on the other hand, is the embodiment of the family and executive ideal. It focuses on technological maturity, vast interior space, and unmistakable smart solutions that help in everyday driving.

• Simply Clever solutions: The brand is famous for these little things. You'll find iconic umbrellas hidden directly in the front door panels, an ice scraper cleverly integrated into the fuel filler cap, or a virtual pedal that allows hands-free opening of the giant luggage compartment with just a wave of your foot under the rear bumper.
• Lighting technology: A big draw for used cars after the facelift (from 2019) are the advanced Matrix LED headlights. Using a camera, they can constantly analyze traffic and turn off individual light segments so the car can keep its high beams on without dazzling oncoming drivers.
• Chassis and customization: The Superb often features the DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) adaptive chassis. At the touch of a button, the driver can change the damper characteristics from a very smooth comfort mode (ideal for long highway trips) to a stiffer sports setting.
• Powertrain and gearboxes: The range of engines is significantly wider and will satisfy everyone. It covers economical TDI diesel engines, dynamic turbocharged TSI petrol versions, and also the popular Superb iV plug-in hybrid variant. Fast and efficient DSG dual-clutch transmissions are a matter of course.
• Specific variants: The Superb enriches its portfolio with distinct editions. On one side is the luxurious Laurin & Klement (L&K) for maximum comfort, and on the other, the dynamically tuned Sportline with lowered suspension and Alcantara seats. A specific version is the raised and plastic-clad Scout with 4x4 drive, which isn't afraid of light off-roading.

Mazda 6

Pros:

• Excellent driving characteristics with precise and communicative steering offering a real driving experience
• Premium interior craftsmanship using high-quality materials and great ergonomics
• Very reliable naturally aspirated petrol engines (Skyactiv-G) with smooth pull and linear power
• Timeless and attractive design (Kodo) that looks dynamic and elegant even after years
• Traditional torque-converter automatic transmission, which excels in smooth and reliable operation without jerking in stop-and-go traffic

Cons:

• Significantly smaller luggage space and less rear seat room, which families will notice especially compared to the Superb
• Outdated multimedia system with a smaller display and slower response
• Fixed trim levels with minimal possibility of individualizing specific equipment features
• Absence of a wider range of alternative powertrains (missing plug-in hybrid variant)

Škoda Superb

Pros:

• King-sized space for passengers, especially in the rear legroom area, where it's hard to find a match on the market
• Huge and perfectly accessible luggage compartment, whether you choose the more practical estate or the elegant liftback
• Extremely wide range of engines – from economical diesel engines (TDI) to powerful petrol 4x4s and a plug-in hybrid (iV)
• Fast and modern infotainment with excellent connectivity (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) and sophisticated digital instrument clusters
• Great availability of service networks, cheaper spare parts, and very high residual value for resale

Cons:

• More detached and sterile driving feel, which doesn't offer the same emotions behind the wheel as its Japanese competitor
• DSG dual-clutch transmissions can occasionally jerk slightly when maneuvering at low speeds and parking
• More conservative exterior design that easily blends into the crowd on the road
• Higher purchase price for used cars due to huge popularity and demand on the Czech market

Based on data from service centers, long-term user ratings, recall actions, and insights regularly brought to us by a detailed Independent Car Audit, we have compiled an overview of the most common faults and weak points of both models at around four years of age (Škoda Superb 3rd generation post-facelift and Mazda 6 GL generation).

Mazda 6: Most Common Problems and Faults

The Mazda 6 benefits from excellent Japanese mechanics, but its reputation is occasionally marred by minor design compromises and details that can make long-term use unpleasant.

Engines and Drivetrain

• Petrol engines (2.0 and 2.5 Skyactiv-G): Among the most reliable units on the market. Major problems are avoided, but if the car is driven exclusively on short city trips, these direct-injection engines risk increased carbon buildup on the intake valves.
• Diesel engines (2.2 Skyactiv-D): In earlier models, this engine was infamous for rapid camshaft wear and oil dilution with diesel during frequent DPF regeneration interruptions. In four-year-old cars from newer production years, these teething problems are mostly resolved via software and hardware, yet they still require longer highway trips and careful monitoring of the oil level.

Body and Chassis

• Paint quality: Mazda's paint (especially the optional Soul Red Crystal) is relatively soft and very thin. It often suffers from chips and stone strikes on the front grille and hood. Buying a unit with protective PPF film is a big advantage.
• Front brakes: Under higher loads and sportier driving, front brake pads wear out relatively quickly, and there are frequent complaints about steering wheel "judder" due to warped brake discs.

Electronics and Interior

• Mirror folding: This is a chronic and very widespread fault. Moisture and dust get into the electronic folding mechanism, where the delicate plastic gears wear down. The mirror then gets stuck halfway or "clicks" unpleasantly when starting. It is solved by replacing the motor.
• Infotainment and display: Some units may experience a defect known as "ghost touch," where the screen randomly registers touches on its own, or its top protective layer may start to crack.

Mazda 6 Summary: From the perspective of mechanical reliability, the petrol versions of this car are at the absolute top. The main weaknesses lie in the thin paint and more susceptible minor electronics (mirrors). Petrol versions require only a minimum of unplanned investment, while it is better to avoid diesel variants for predominantly city driving.

Skoda Superb: Most Common Problems and Faults

The third-generation Superb after the facelift is a robust highway cruiser, where the frequency of faults depends primarily on how diligently maintenance was carried out by fleet managers or previous owners.

Engines and Drivetrain

• 2.0 TDI diesel engines (EVO generation): These are generally very durable but struggle with coolant leaks from faulty water pumps. Furthermore, they may experience issues with the urea injection system (AdBlue) – most commonly, the pumps or NOx sensors fail. If the car does not drive long distances, there is a risk of premature DPF filter clogging.
• 1.5 TSI and 2.0 TSI petrol engines: The 1.5 TSI initially suffered from so-called "kangarooing" (jerking when cold), which the manufacturer has already resolved across the board with a control unit update. For the more powerful 2.0 TSI, it is necessary to check the tightness of the thermostat housing, where minor coolant leaks often occur.

Transmission

• Dual-clutch automatics (DSG): The 7-speed transmissions (often type DQ381) work excellently but are critically sensitive to oil changes every 60,000 km. If neglected, jerking during take-off occurs, followed by the risk of expensive replacement of the mechatronics or the entire clutches. A careful physical inspection of the used car combined with diagnostics of shifting smoothness is an absolute necessity in this case.

Chassis

• DCC Adaptive Chassis: Although the dampers can last well over 150,000 km, play can develop in the rear axle mountings, and the rear bushings may creak. This manifests as an unpleasant thumping or creaking when driving over speed bumps.

Electronics and Infotainment

• MIB3 System (from model year 2020): This is by far the most criticized component of used Superbs after the facelift. Owners commonly report the touchscreen freezing, random system restarts while driving, and frequent dropouts of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections. A common error message is also "e-Call system fault" (the SOS button throws an error). The solution is usually extensive and repeated software updates at an authorized service center, with the first software versions being the most problematic.

Skoda Superb Summary: From a mechanical standpoint, it is a reliable car with robust and well-tested VW Group engines. The biggest pitfalls of the Superb III after the facelift are the faulty infotainment and potentially expensive service for neglected DSG automatic transmissions. However, a regularly serviced car with updated software represents a very safe purchase.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and even though these are roughly four-year-old vehicles, both models have their clear specifics and weak points that are worth focusing on in detail.

When choosing a Mazda 6:

• Folding wing mirrors: This is a very common and well-known fault. During the inspection, fold and unfold the electric mirrors several times in a row. If they get stuck, creak, or one unfolds slower than the other, you will likely soon face a replacement of the internal motor, which can be expensive.
• Infotainment and navigation: For the older version of the MZD Connect system, focus on whether it restarts spontaneously. Also, test the display – it can suffer from "ghost touch" (random touches on the screen without your input) or, conversely, not respond to your finger at all in some corners. Also, test the smoothness of the rotary controller between the seats.
• Engine performance and cylinder deactivation system: If you are considering the 2.5 Skyactiv-G petrol engine, accelerate and decelerate smoothly. Monitor the transitions to two-cylinder mode. If you feel noticeable jerking or vibration at a steady speed, it could be wear or a software problem in the control unit.
• Condition of brake discs: During the test drive, test braking from higher speeds (e.g., from 90 km/h). The Mazda 6 is more prone to faster wear and warping of the front brake discs, which quickly manifests as strong vibrations in the steering wheel.
• Chassis corrosion protection: Although anti-corrosion protection has significantly improved in newer models, Mazda is historically sensitive to this problem. A thorough physical inspection of the used car on a lift is essential – focus especially on the suspension arms, exhaust system, and wheel arch edges, where there should be no visible deep rust.

When choosing a Skoda Superb:

• DSG transmission behavior: For automatic transmissions, focus on the smoothness of take-offs and shifting during the test drive. Try crawling at a pace simulating a traffic jam. Jerking, metallic clicking, or delays in response to the throttle can mean worn clutches (especially with the DQ200 7-speed dry clutch on the 1.5 TSI engine) or a delayed oil change in wet-clutch DSGs.
• MIB3 infotainment software: Post-facelift models (from 2019) received a new infotainment system, which is known for slower loading, occasional freezing, or sound dropouts. Ensure that the system starts quickly after ignition and pairs with your phone, and check if it has the latest software update installed.
• Adaptive Chassis (DCC) and axles: Find a section with a poor surface or cobblestones, roll down the windows, and listen. Knocking from the front or rear axle often indicates worn bushings. A detailed technical inspection of the car should then visually confirm whether the expensive adaptive dampers are suffering from oil leaks.
• Water pump in 2.0 TDI engines: In popular diesel engines, listen to the engine idling after it has warmed up. Irregular whistling or rustling from the timing belt area often signals a failing water pump. Its failure can lead to coolant leakage and potential engine overheating.
• Battery health in the Superb iV version: If you are buying a plug-in hybrid, don't be swayed by external condition alone. Check the estimated pure electric range at full charge in the on-board computer menu (it should be around 40-50 km). It is crucial to request a diagnostic report of the battery's State of Health (SoH), as a worn battery radically increases consumption on longer trips.

Sources: ADAC, aktualne.cz, e15.cz, mobilmania.cz, dopravniinfo.cz, youngtimer.cz

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