Mazda - 626

1999-02 

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Three words sum up the long-running 626: reliable, worthy, dull. This final version, now eclipsed by the Mazda 6, does most things well but fails to deliver driving pleasure.

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	Good quality, spacious family transport
	Lots of equipment for the money
	Above-average reliability, sensible running costs
	Uninspiring when compared to Mazda 6
	Not as good to drive as Mondeo, Primera or Passat
	Will continue to depreciate quickly

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Last in a long line of smooth-riding and ultimately reliable 626s, these family saloons, hatchbacks and estates are easy to live with. They're good value: prices have fallen rapidly since the arrival of the superior Mazda 6.
Apart from the 1.8 LXi (which also has the least appealing engine), trim levels are generous, with four electric windows, climate control on GSi and Sport, plus an electric sunroof on GSi. Like the rest of the car, the cabin is well finished but lacks the quality appeal of Mondeo or Passat.
Bodies are big, giving plenty of room for a grown-up family plus luggage. The estate has a very useful load capacity. Seats are comfortable, but road noise is poorly suppressed and engines are unrefined when pushed hard.
Although safe and sure-footed, this 626 is best when cruising; there's not enough feedback through the steering to satisfy the enthusiastic driver.