Thinking of picking up a 2004 Mazda6,Opinions?

[klocktown]

So I'm thinking about picking up a 2004 Mazda6 Wagon. I really enjoyed my previous Mazda (MS3) and since selling my Mini I've been thinking about heading back to Mazda. I really like the new Mazda3s and CX-5 but do not want to spend the price for a new car. I'm thinking about picking up a 2004 Mazda6 wagon that's at a local dealership and then maybe a year or two from now picking up either the 3 or CX-5. What's the opinion on Mazda6's? Are they reliable? The fuel economy doesn't seem too great with the wagon as it has the v6 but I imagine I should be able to use regular gas instead of premium which will be nice. Also, any recommendations on how much I should be paying? They have it listed for $8500, but I think that's way too much for the car.