What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

For This is a hard-wearing reliable family motor with a no-nonsense cabin

Against It's very dull to drive

Verdict It puts dependability above everything else – all competence and no sparkle

Go for… 114bhp 2.0-litre petrol

Avoid… The 2.0 turbodiesel

Mazda 626 Estate
  • 1. Choose only the smartest, well-cared for examples and you should be looking at trouble-free ownership
  • 2. Watch out for dents, signs of over-spray and bodged repairs. Body parts can work out expensive
  • 3. Suspension, axles and brakes account for the lion's share of warranty claims
  • 4. The estate is slightly longer and with a higher roof than the saloon and hatch, so it's a good load-carrier
  • 5. The 113bhp engine is good for most things, but if you're carrying heavy loads, consider the 136bhp version or the diesel
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