The 2020 Mazda 6 interior represents a significant evolution in the brand’s design philosophy, blending premium materials with a driver-focused cockpit that feels both sophisticated and intuitive. Unlike many competitors prioritizing digital clutter, Mazda emphasized analog simplicity and high-quality tactile surfaces, creating an environment that feels genuinely luxurious rather than merely functional. This generation of the 6 was one of the final models to feature the rotary-style base and center stack before the transition to the CX-50 derived infotainment system, making the cabin a point of particular interest for enthusiasts.
Design and Material Quality
Upon entering a 2020 Mazda 6, the first impression is one of refined minimalism. The dashboard is dominated by a large, upward-angled infotainment screen, but the surrounding hard plastic is largely replaced by soft-touch materials and premium faux leather in higher trims. The rotary-style switch for the infotainment volume is a signature touch, providing precise control without taking eyes off the road. Metallic finishes, contrast stitching, and carefully placed ambient lighting contribute to an atmosphere that is more mature and upscale than the preceding generation.
Color and Trim Options
Mazda offered a restrained yet elegant palette for the 2020 6 interior, focusing on timeless sophistication over fleeting trends. Darker charcoal and ebony hues provide a classic backdrop, while lighter gray and cream options create a warmer, more inviting cabin. The available leather-appointed surfaces in Premium and Grand Touring trims significantly elevate the tactile experience, with perforated bolsters offering both enhanced grip and a visual break that underscores the seating surfaces.
Seating Comfort and Space
Front-seat comfort is a strong point, with supportive bolsters and a power-adjustable driver’s seat that accommodates a wide range of body types. The available heated front and heated steering wheel are welcome features, particularly in colder climates, delivering warmth quickly and evenly. Rear-seat space is respectable for the class, offering ample legroom for passengers up to six feet tall, though headroom is constrained by the sedan’s sloping roofline, making it less suitable for taller rear occupants on long journeys.
Technology and Infotainment
The centerpiece of the 2020 6 interior is an 8.8-inch wide infotainment display with a distinctive angled orientation. Running on the legacy Mazda Connect system, it provides responsive navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. Physical knobs for volume and temperature provide a level of tactile feedback that is increasingly rare in the industry, reducing reliance on touchscreens for core functions and helping maintain driver attention.
Audio and Connectivity
Bose audio enthusiasts are catered to in the Premium trim, where a 10-speaker sound system delivers clear, well-balanced audio with decent separation and depth. For the base model, a more modest audio setup is adequate for casual listening. The inclusion of ample USB ports, including one specifically designed for quick device charging, addresses practical connectivity needs without feeling outdated.
