Cross Shopping a Stinger vs a Mazda 6

[TheBert]

Negotiate more off that price. I got my brand new 2019 GT2 for just under $40,000 before taxes. Also, the used car market is taking a beating now with values going down.

Yeah I wouldn't jump on that price. Especially when there's brand new GT1s cheaper than that atm.

 

[Chark]

Not sure what your time frame is, but the 5th gen Optima is supposed to be coming out with a GT version later this year. 2.5T, AWD and an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission make this an intriguing possibility. HP is supposed to be near 300. I've currently got a 2012 Optima and find the trunk to be quite large. The Stinger GT1/GT2 AWDis my current favorite, but I probably won't be buying for a while yet.

 

[343BlueR32]

I had a 2016 Mazda 3. It was a great car and had no issues with it. Then I had a kid and needed something slightly bigger. I can say since having my Stinger I get at least 2 comments a week on how good it looks (I'm in a very populated Florida county). I can't imagine anyone ever stopping to say anything special about a Mazda. It looks good too, but isn't special/rare like the Stinger is.

 

[TheBert]

Not sure what your time frame is, but the 5th gen Optima is supposed to be coming out with a GT version later this year. 2.5T, AWD and an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission make this an intriguing possibility. HP is supposed to be near 300. I've currently got a 2012 Optima and find the trunk to be quite large. The Stinger GT1/GT2 AWDis my current favorite, but I probably won't be buying for a while yet.

Honestly I'm waiting to see what happens with my Focus, given the class action suit against Ford. That's going to alter my decision timeline and which trim I go for. That Optima does sound intriguing.

I had a 2016 Mazda 3. It was a great car and had no issues with it. Then I had a kid and needed something slightly bigger. I can say since having my Stinger I get at least 2 comments a week on how good it looks (I'm in a very populated Florida county). I can't imagine anyone ever stopping to say anything special about a Mazda. It looks good too, but isn't special/rare like the Stinger is.

That's big reason I don't care for the Accords or Camrys, I want something unique. Agreed in the Stinger styling, it's definitely one of those cars you can spot out of a pack.

 

[NIU_Huskies]

That's big reason I don't care for the Accords or Camrys, I want something unique. Agreed in the Stinger styling, it's definitely one of those cars you can spot out of a pack.

I felt similar to you in why I picked the Stinger. I knew I wanted something with power and acceleration. I've always wanted a Mustang GT, but there is nothing unique about them since Mustangs, Camaros, and Chargers can be found all over the roads. I also wanted something with luxury and features but BMW and Audi are too expensive.

I think the Stinger is a great combination of all -- unique, powerful, and luxurious.

 

[OneIota]

Honestly I'm waiting to see what happens with my Focus, given the class action suit against Ford. That's going to alter my decision timeline and which trim I go for. That Optima does sound intriguing.



That's big reason I don't care for the Accords or Camrys, I want something unique. Agreed in the Stinger styling, it's definitely one of those cars you can spot out of a pack.

Probably unlikely your timeline is out that far, but the 2022 Mazda 6 is rumored to get an inline 6 and RWD and thus would probably be an all-new car vs the current 6. I know that the "Do I holdout for possible upcoming changes?" thought ran through my head in considering a 2020 vs 2021 Stinger. I ran out of willpower and decided I could try to live with the potential buyer's regret. You would have to live with potential 1st year bugs though. Similarly, there's a new TLX with a TT V6 and AWD rumored as well.

 

[GenesisG70]

If you want something that is not driven by millions of mid age moms don't buy a LEXUS, Mazda, Camry or an Accord get the Stinger.

 

[TheBert]

I felt similar to you in why I picked the Stinger. I knew I wanted something with power and acceleration. I've always wanted a Mustang GT, but there is nothing unique about them since Mustangs, Camaros, and Chargers can be found all over the roads. I also wanted something with luxury and features but BMW and Audi are too expensive.

I think the Stinger is a great combination of all -- unique, powerful, and luxurious.

Exactly. Similarly, I've always wanted a Camaro but it's not practical for this stage of my life. Whereas the Stinger meets the best of both worlds.

Probably unlikely your timeline is out that far, but the 2022 Mazda 6 is rumored to get an inline 6 and RWD and thus would probably be an all-new car vs the current 6. I know that the "Do I holdout for possible upcoming changes?" thought ran through my head in considering a 2020 vs 2021 Stinger. I ran out of willpower and decided I could try to live with the potential buyer's regret. You would have to live with potential 1st year bugs though. Similarly, there's a new TLX with a TT V6 and AWD rumored as well.

Yes, I have seen those reports. Definitely colored me interested, but as you said I'm not sure I'll wait that long.

If you want something that is not driven by millions of mid age moms don't buy a LEXUS, Mazda, Camry or an Accord get the Stinger.

I dig this line haha.

 

[OneIota]

If you want something that is not driven by millions of mid age moms don't buy a LEXUS, Mazda, Camry or an Accord get the Stinger.

That was a thought for me too before getting the car, with the exception of the Mazda. It seems like there's a LOT of people who get an Accord Sport, Camry SE or a new/used IS or Infiniti G and many of them, especially on the freeway, drive everywhere like it's a race. I don't think I've ever put the Mazda 6 in the same camp, maybe due to the relative rarity compared to the others. The last time I went to wash my car, 3 white Accord Sports showed up as well.

 

[GenesisG70]

That was a thought for me too before getting the car, with the exception of the Mazda. It seems like there's a LOT of people who get an Accord Sport, Camry SE or a new/used IS or Infiniti G and many of them, especially on the freeway, drive everywhere like it's a race. I don't think I've ever put the Mazda 6 in the same camp, maybe due to the relative rarity compared to the others. The last time I went to wash my car, 3 white Accord Sports showed up as well.

I agree but a Mazda is not something rare or super sporty that catches the eye of car enthusiast necessarily.

 

[MontanaStinger]

I'm currently a Mazda6 GT owner, and I'm trading it in for a Stinger GT1 or GT2. I've test-driven the GT-Line, and honestly the GT-Line performs about the same as my 6, and my 6 is more comfortable to be in. If you are sticking with a 4 banger, I'd honestly go with the Mazda. Better bang for the buck, IMO. Mazda also has what appears to be quite solid resale.

With that said, there is absolutely no comparison between the V6 Stinger and my Mazda6. Completely different classes of vehicles, which I discovered after test-driving the GT2. Driving was actually fun in the V6 Stinger, while it was just a necessary action in the Mazda6. Obviously the gas mileage is a good bit better with the 4 banger, but the smile the V6 will put on your face as you zip in and out of traffic is more than worth it, IMO. And the Stinger just looks much better, but I realize looks are subjective.

 

[GenesisG70]

The big question is do you want to blend in with other 40 something year old moms driving Accords, Camrys and Mazdas? Or you rather drive the Sexy Stinger?

 

[TheBert]

I'm currently a Mazda6 GT owner, and I'm trading it in for a Stinger GT1 or GT2. I've test-driven the GT-Line, and honestly the GT-Line performs about the same as my 6, and my 6 is more comfortable to be in. If you are sticking with a 4 banger, I'd honestly go with the Mazda. Better bang for the buck, IMO. Mazda also has what appears to be quite solid resale.

With that said, there is absolutely no comparison between the V6 Stinger and my Mazda6. Completely different classes of vehicles, which I discovered after test-driving the GT2. Driving was actually fun in the V6 Stinger, while it was just a necessary action in the Mazda6. Obviously the gas mileage is a good bit better with the 4 banger, but the smile the V6 will put on your face as you zip in and out of traffic is more than worth it, IMO. And the Stinger just looks much better, but I realize looks are subjective.

Thanks, this is good information. I'm scared to test drive a GT1 or 2 for that very reason unless I can find a CPO for a good price. I love the way Mazda designs their sedans, but I agree. The Stinger just makes you want to turn your head every time.

The big question is do you want to blend in with other 40 something year old moms driving Accords, Camrys and Mazdas? Or you rather drive the Sexy Stinger?

Oh I want the Stinger. I'm just playing the waiting game now.

 

[Kane]

Hey all! First time posting here but I've been lurking the last few days. Currently own a 2014 Focus and am trying to move on from it (if you've read up on the clutch issues you'll understand why I'm so fed up). I was heavily honed in on the Mazda 6. Really like what the Grand Touring Reserve and the Signature trims offer. But then seeing as the lock down has given me plenty of time to research, especially with school being done for the semester, I've been giving a hard look at the Stinger 2.0 (even though I'd really love the GT1)! Especially with the Sun and Sound package, the 2.0 seems really fun and that trunk is amazing! Looking to grow into this car as my fiance and I plan on starting a family in a couple of years, but I want to enjoy driving as well. As I get closer to being ready to buy, I'll test drive both.

Did anyone cross shop the two cars and can offer any insight. It would be my daily driver so I'm curious about fuel economy as well. Seems like a great community and have enjoyed reading up on the Stinger!

If this is in the wrong sub please let me know!

But the rear passenger space is the only issue

 

[MerlintheMad]

But the rear passenger space is the only issue

I figured that by the time I got to the latest post, you'd have asked the same question more than once. Rear space is your deal breaker, it seems.
Stinger has 114.4" wheelbase. That is very long compared to most sedans. And to get more rear passenger room than a Stinger will either require a luxury sedan of many thousands more dollars; or, your other option, an SUV. Boring.

I have sat in the rear of my Stinger in complete comfort and I am 6'3" The seat in front moved to where a normal height adult can be comfortably spaced back from the dash leaves plenty of foot room, so, you slide your butt slightly forward (to lower your head, if you're tall like I am) and have plenty of room for legs and feet. Same goes for rear passenger behind the driver. Center seat in the back does have that "hump" (driveshaft tunnel). So, you put the smallest child there. Get a Stinger and have fun!

 

[cwatt79]

And to get more rear passenger room than a Stinger will either require a luxury sedan of many thousands more dollars; or, your other option, an SUV.

I disagree. My 2018 Accord had far more rear seat room than my Stinger. I’m 6’1” and can’t sit behind myself in the Stinger; I have to move the front seat forward and up, and my head uncomfortably touches the head liner. In my Accord, I could sit behind myself and still have inches to spare between my knees and the seat back, enough toe room to move my feet around, and without my head pressed against the headliner (only my hair grazing it). Four 6’+ adults would sit in total comfort in the Accord, whereas their comfort would be slightly compromised in the Stinger. Thankfully, I have only had four adults in any car twice in the past two years, so this isn’t an issue for me.

The Stinger’s advantage in wheelbase is lost to the sexy dash-to-axle ratio, at least compared to front-drive midsize family sedans.

 

[MerlintheMad]

I disagree. My 2018 Accord had far more rear seat room than my Stinger. I’m 6’1” and can’t sit behind myself in the Stinger; I have to move the front seat forward and up, and my head uncomfortably touches the head liner. In my Accord, I could sit behind myself and still have inches to spare between my knees and the seat back, enough toe room to move my feet around, and without my head pressed against the headliner (only my hair grazing it). Four 6’+ adults would sit in total comfort in the Accord, whereas their comfort would be slightly compromised in the Stinger. Thankfully, I have only had four adults in any car twice in the past two years, so this isn’t an issue for me.

The Stinger’s advantage in wheelbase is lost to the sexy dash-to-axle ratio, at least compared to front-drive midsize family sedans.

I hear what you're saying. I should have been more specific: another sedan laid out like the Stinger with RWD bias (and not a crosswise FWD), is not available with all the same performance and features as the Stinger at anywhere near the price point. Even the Optima has slightly more practical rear room than a Stinger. So, hopefully that clears up what I was thinking when I wrote the above.

 

[Gargamel]

I disagree. My 2018 Accord had far more rear seat room than my Stinger. I’m 6’1” and can’t sit behind myself in the Stinger; I have to move the front seat forward and up, and my head uncomfortably touches the head liner. In my Accord, I could sit behind myself and still have inches to spare between my knees and the seat back, enough toe room to move my feet around, and without my head pressed against the headliner (only my hair grazing it). Four 6’+ adults would sit in total comfort in the Accord, whereas their comfort would be slightly compromised in the Stinger. Thankfully, I have only had four adults in any car twice in the past two years, so this isn’t an issue for me.

The Stinger’s advantage in wheelbase is lost to the sexy dash-to-axle ratio, at least compared to front-drive midsize family sedans.

I have never been able to sit behind my self in any car i've driven. Because i always have to go all the way back and often to the bottom, and some cars i could even tilt the chair back and forth (volvo).

But the smallest car i've had was a VW Golf 2014 model. We crammed the 5 biggest guys in the office into it and went for lunch

 

[Lawrence Williams]

I hear what you're saying. I should have been more specific: another sedan laid out like the Stinger with RWD bias (and not a crosswise FWD), is not available with all the same performance and features as the Stinger at anywhere near the price point. Even the Optima has slightly more practical rear room than a Stinger. So, hopefully that clears up what I was thinking when I wrote the above.

My son at 6'2" fits easily behind my 5'8" wife fwiw.....