Mazda 626 Hatchback (1992-)
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Were hideously underpriced for the car. Loads of fun, hundreds of thousands of trouble-free miles.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    A bit pricey on some parts - tailgate struts in particular!

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Fun+performance+reliablity+safety= Mazda 626 2.0 gxi

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    The fastest 2 litre I have ever had. Over 100K they get even faster as the engine loosens up. Endless fun.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Over 160k miles and it's cost me an electric window motor. I call that 'fair'!

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    I disagree with the critics. The 626 GE model has great styling. The GD and GF's were boring by comparison.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Seats great. Ventilation is poor. Also gutterless roof means you can't open the front windows with the w/ screen wipers on or you get soaked.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Nobody has ever wanted to nick mine, but then....

    Service

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Never had a problem. Fast friendly and courteous servicing. Parts are there within hours. Parts are pricey, but hey... the car never goes wrong, so who cares!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    None whatsoever, but air-control valve does need to be kept clean.

    Other

    None - but keep the brake calipers copper-slipped or they'll seize and cost you!

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes