In the competitive mid-sized saloon market, the 2017 Honda Accord vs Mazda 6 represent two compelling options that have garnered considerable attention from motorists across the United Kingdom. Both vehicles offer a balance of practicality, performance, and refinement that appeals to families and business users alike. This detailed comparison examines these two Japanese contenders across multiple categories to determine which suits your requirements better.
Table of Contents
Design and Exterior Styling
First impressions matter, and both these Japanese saloons make distinctive visual statements. From sleek lines to signature grilles, let’s examine how these mid-sized contenders approach exterior design and which might better suit your aesthetic preferences.
Honda Accord
The 2017 Honda Accord‘s sophisticated exterior balances conservative elegance and modern styling. Its wide stance and low profile contribute to an athletic appearance, while the bold front grille and swept-back headlights add a touch of aggression. Chrome accents around the windows and front fascia lend a premium feel, though some critics suggest the overall design errs on the side of caution rather than innovation.
The Accord’s proportions are well-balanced, with clean lines flowing from bonnet to boot. LED daytime running lights come as standard across the range, with higher trim levels benefitting from full LED headlights. The Accord measures 4,870mm in length, 1,850mm in width, and 1,465mm in height, placing it firmly in the mid-sized saloon segment whilst providing substantial road presence.
Mazda 6
By contrast, the 2017 Mazda 6 embodies the company’s ‘KODO: Soul of Motion’ design philosophy, resulting in a more visually striking and emotionally engaging exterior. The flowing, sculpture-like bodywork creates an impression of movement even when stationary. Its prominent front grille, sharp headlights, and pronounced wheel arches contribute to a more dynamic and distinctive appearance than many rivals, including the Accord.
Measuring 4,870mm long, 1,840mm wide, and 1,450mm tall, the Mazda 6’s dimensions closely match those of the Accord, though its slightly lower height enhances its sporty character. The Mazda’s design has aged remarkably well since its introduction, with many motoring journalists considering it among the most handsome vehicles in its class.
Design Verdict: The Mazda 6 takes the honours in the styling department, offering a more emotive and distinctive exterior that turns heads whilst remaining tasteful and sophisticated. The Honda Accord, whilst handsome, lacks the visual impact of its competitor.
Interior Quality and Comfort
Owners spend their time in the cabin, making material quality, ergonomics, and comfort crucial. We compare how these two manufacturers approach interior design, examining everything from seat support to dashboard layout and overall refinement.
Honda Accord
Step inside the 2017 Accord and you’re greeted by a cabin that prioritises functionality and space. The dashboard layout is logical, with physical buttons and knobs for key functions supplemented by a central touchscreen. Materials quality is generally good, with soft-touch surfaces in most areas passengers regularly interact with, though some more rigid plastics are evident in lower sections.
The Accord’s front seats offer excellent comfort for longer journeys, with good support and a wide range of adjustments, particularly in higher-specification models which include electric adjustment and heating. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and acceptable headroom, though taller occupants might find the sloping roofline slightly restrictive.
Noise suppression is a particular strength of the Accord, with extensive sound insulation creating a hushed environment at motorway speeds. Honda’s attention to refinement details is evident throughout, making the Accord an excellent long-distance cruiser.
Mazda 6
The Mazda 6’s interior represents a more design-focused approach, with a driver-centric layout emphasising the car’s sporting pretensions. The dashboard sweeps around the driver, with a prominent central console creating a cockpit-like feel. Material quality impresses, with extensive use of soft-touch surfaces, tasteful chrome accents, and (in higher trims) genuine leather upholstery.
Mazda’s seats deserve particular praise, offering excellent support and comfort across all trim levels. The driving position is spot-on, with a wide range of adjustments allowing drivers of all statures to find their ideal setup. Rear accommodation is marginally less spacious than in the Accord, though still perfectly adequate for adults on longer journeys.
Where the Mazda loses ground to the Honda is in cabin noise; despite improvements in this generation, road and wind noise are more pronounced at higher speeds, particularly on coarser road surfaces.
Interior Verdict: This category is closely contested. The Mazda 6 offers superior material quality and a more distinctive design, whilst the Honda Accord provides better refinement and marginally more space. Your preference will depend on whether you prioritise aesthetic appeal or practical comfort.
Technology and Features
Modern vehicles are technological showcases, with infotainment systems, driver assistance features, and connectivity options becoming increasingly important to buyers. Let’s explore how the Accord and Mazda 6 stack up regarding technological offerings and usability.
Honda Accord
The 2017 Accord comes equipped with Honda’s Display Audio system, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen for entertainment and vehicle settings. The interface is reasonably intuitive, though some functions require multiple inputs. Standard connectivity includes Bluetooth for phone and audio, USB ports, and on higher trims, satellite navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration.
The Accord’s instrument cluster combines traditional analogue dials with a central multi-information display providing trip data, fuel economy statistics, and warning notifications. Higher specification models add a premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and start, and a suite of driver assistance technologies under the Honda Sensing banner, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking.
Mazda 6
Mazda takes a different approach with its MZD Connect infotainment system, controlled primarily through a rotary dial on the centre console rather than relying solely on touchscreen inputs (though the 7-inch display does offer touch functionality when stationary). This controller proves more intuitive whilst driving, reducing distraction and allowing for more precise inputs.
Standard technology across the Mazda 6 range includes Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and DAB radio, with higher trim levels adding satellite navigation, premium Bose audio, and additional convenience features. Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies include blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and smart city brake support on most variants.
Notably, the Mazda 6 lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration in 2017, a significant omission compared to the Accord.
Technology Verdict: The Honda Accord edges ahead in technology, offering a more comprehensive suite of driver assistance features and smartphone integration options. However, Mazda’s control interface is more user-friendly when driving.
Performance and Driving Experience
The driving experience perhaps defines a car’s character more than any other attribute. From engine performance, transmission smoothness, handling dynamics, and ride quality, we examine how these two saloons perform on Britain’s diverse roads.
Honda Accord
The 2017 Accord was primarily offered in the UK market with a 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine producing 155 bhp and a 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel delivering 148 bhp. The petrol unit provides adequate performance, reaching 0-62mph in approximately 10.5 seconds, whilst the more popular diesel offers more substantial mid-range torque and improved fuel efficiency.
Transmission options include a precise six-speed manual or a smooth five-speed automatic. The Accord’s handling characteristics favour comfort over sportiness, with a compliant suspension setup that absorbs road imperfections admirably. Steering is light but lacks the communicative feel that enthusiastic drivers might desire.
Overall, the Accord delivers a competent and refined driving experience that prioritises comfort and ease of use rather than driver engagement.
Mazda 6
In 2017, the Mazda 6 was available with a broader engine range, including 2.0-litre petrol units in 145bhp and 165bhp outputs, plus a 2.5-litre 192bhp option in some markets. The diesel lineup featured 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D engines in 150bhp and 175bhp configurations, offering excellent torque and efficiency.
Mazda truly distinguishes itself in driving dynamics. The chassis feels more responsive and composed than the Accord’s, with precise steering that provides genuine feedback. Body control through corners is exceptional for a family saloon, yet the ride quality remains comfortable on all but the poorest surfaces.
Mazda’s six-speed manual gearbox deserves special mention for its short, precise shifts that enhance driver engagement. The optional six-speed automatic, while competent, doesn’t quite match the slickness of the best dual-clutch alternatives.
Performance Verdict: The Mazda 6 is the clear winner for those who value driving pleasure, offering more engaging handling and a broader range of engine options—the Honda Accord counters with superior refinement and a more comfort-oriented approach.
Practicality and Space
Family saloons must balance style with substance, providing sufficient space for passengers and luggage. We compare boot capacities, interior storage solutions, and passenger accommodation to determine which vehicle better serves as a practical daily companion.
Honda Accord
Practicality has long been a Honda strength, and the 2017 Accord continues this tradition. The saloon offers 497 litres of boot space, which, while not class-leading, provides ample room for family luggage or business equipment. The rear seats split 60:40 and fold to accommodate longer items, though the saloon body style inevitably limits ultimate versatility compared to an estate.
Interior storage is well thought out, with large door bins, a spacious glovebox, and useful cubbies throughout the cabin. Rear seat passengers benefit from generous legroom, making the Accord suitable for taller adults even on extended journeys. Access is straightforward thanks to wide-opening doors and a relatively high roofline.
Mazda 6
The Mazda 6 saloon offers a slightly larger boot at 483 litres, with a wide opening to load larger items. Like the Accord, the rear seats fold in a 60:40 configuration for additional flexibility. Interior storage options are comprehensive, including a covered centre console, reasonably sized door pockets, and thoughtful small-item storage solutions.
Rear seat space is marginally less generous than in the Accord, particularly for taller passengers who might find headroom slightly restricted by the sloping roofline. However, most adults will find the accommodation perfectly comfortable for all but the longest journeys.
Practicality Verdict: The Honda Accord holds a slight advantage in practical terms, offering marginally more passenger space and equally good cargo capacity. The difference is minimal, however, and unlikely to be a deciding factor for most buyers.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
With fuel prices and taxation ever-increasing concerns for British motorists, running costs significantly influence purchasing decisions. We examine fuel efficiency, emissions, insurance groups, and maintenance requirements to calculate the long-term financial implications of ownership.
Honda Accord
The most economical option in the 2017 Accord range is the 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel with manual transmission, which achieves a combined fuel economy of approximately 64.2mpg under the NEDC testing regime (equating to around 53mpg in real-world conditions). CO2 emissions of 116g/km place it in a reasonable vehicle excise duty band for a car of this size.
The petrol-powered Accord is substantially thirstier, returning around 39mpg combined (NEDC), with higher emissions and tax costs. Depending on specification, insurance groups range from 22 to 27, while servicing costs are typically moderate for the segment. Honda’s reputation for reliability helps to keep unscheduled maintenance expenses low.
Mazda 6
Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology delivers impressive efficiency across the six range. The 2.2-litre 150bhp diesel achieves up to 68.9mpg combined (NEDC) with 107g/km emissions, making it marginally more economical than the equivalent Accord. Even the more powerful 175 bhp diesel manages 62.8 mpg, delivering substantially stronger performance.
The petrol engines are also relatively efficient in their performance level, with the 2.0-litre 145bhp unit returning up to 51.4mpg combined. Insurance costs are similar to the Accord, typically between groups 19 and 27. Mazda’s servicing costs tend to be competitive, though parts can sometimes be marginally more expensive than Honda equivalents.
Economy Verdict: The Mazda 6 edges ahead in efficiency, particularly with its petrol engines, though the difference in diesel economy is marginal. Both vehicles offer reasonable running costs for their class.
Reliability and Ownership Experience
Japanese manufacturers have built strong reputations for dependability, but nuances exist between brands. We investigate reliability records, warranty provisions, and dealer network experiences to assess the ownership proposition beyond the driving experience.
Honda Accord
Honda’s reputation for reliability is well-established, and the 2017 Accord generally upholds this tradition. The relatively straightforward engineering and proven components contribute to impressive durability, with few significant common faults reported. The diesel engine has proven particularly robust, though some earlier examples experienced occasional issues with the diesel particulate filter in predominantly urban use.
When new, the Accord was covered by Honda’s standard three-year/90,000-mile warranty, which, whilst not class-leading, provided reasonable peace of mind. Honda’s dealer network consistently scores well in customer satisfaction surveys, with efficient service departments and good parts availability.
Mazda 6
Mazda has steadily built a strong reliability record in recent years, with the six demonstrating good long-term durability. The SKYACTIV diesel engines have mainly proven trouble-free, though they can be more sensitive to maintenance schedules than the Honda equivalent. Early examples of the petrol engines occasionally suffered from excessive oil consumption, though this was addressed mainly in later production runs.
Mazda offered a three-year/60,000-mile warranty on new vehicles, somewhat less generous than Honda’s coverage. Whilst smaller than Honda’s, the dealer network generally provides good service, though accessibility might be an issue in some regions.
Reliability Verdict: Both manufacturers offer good reliability, though Honda’s reputation and slightly more comprehensive warranty give the Accord a marginal advantage.
Safety Features
Family vehicles must prioritise occupant protection through both passive and active safety systems. We examine crash test ratings, standard safety equipment, and available driver assistance technologies to determine which model better protects its passengers.
Honda Accord
When tested, the Honda Accord received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, with excellent scores for adult occupant protection. Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags, vehicle stability assist, and anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution.
Higher trim levels benefit from the Honda Sensing suite, which includes collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. This comprehensive package was ahead of many competitors in 2017, providing excellent active safety protection.
Mazda 6
The Mazda 6 also achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, with impressive scores across all assessment categories. Standard safety features include multiple airbags, dynamic stability control, and emergency brake assist.
Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE technologies, available on higher trim levels, include smart city brake support, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. While comprehensive, this suite lacks some more advanced features in Honda Sensing, such as adaptive cruise control on some trim levels.
Safety Verdict: Both vehicles offer excellent safety credentials, though the Honda’s more comprehensive suite of active safety features on higher trim levels gives it a slight edge.
Value for Money
The initial purchase price tells only part of the financial story. We assess equipment levels, depreciation rates, and overall value propositions to determine which vehicle represents the wiser investment for discerning buyers in today’s market.
Honda Accord
New 2017 Accord models were priced competitively for the segment, starting at approximately £22,500 for entry-level variants and rising to around £32,000 for fully-equipped models. Standard equipment was generous across the range, with even base models including dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and alloy wheels.
Accords tend to hold their value reasonably well on the used market, though not as strongly as some German rivals. This means second-hand examples represent good value, particularly higher-specification models that suffered more significant depreciation from their new price.
Mazda 6
Mazda positioned the 6 as a slightly more premium offering than the Accord. New prices in 2017 started at approximately £23,000 and extended to £31,000 for range-topping variants. Equipment levels were similarly generous, with all models featuring alloy wheels, air conditioning, and a comprehensive infotainment system.
Used values for the Mazda 6 tend to be slightly stronger than the Accord, reflecting its more distinctive design and driver appeal. However, second-hand examples may command a slight premium over equivalent Honda models.
Value Verdict: Both vehicles offer good value propositions, with the Honda perhaps representing slightly better value on the used market due to marginally higher depreciation. The decision ultimately depends on which car’s character better suits your requirements.
Conclusion: 2017 Honda Accord vs Mazda 6
The 2017 Honda Accord and Mazda 6 embody distinct philosophies in the mid-sized saloon segment, and their clear differences will guide your choice.
Choose the Honda Accord if you value superior refinement, practical spaciousness, and comprehensive safety features. Its comfortable ride and solid reliability make it ideal for motorway cruising and family transport.
Opt for the Mazda 6 if driving engagement matters alongside practicality. Its responsive handling, distinctive styling, and marginally better fuel economy come with slight compromises in refinement.
Both represent excellent value on today’s used market, showcasing Japanese engineering excellence with their blend of reliability and efficiency. Your decision ultimately hinges on prioritising the Honda’s rational comfort or the Mazda’s emotional appeal.