Used Mazda 626 Hatchback 1997 - 2002 review
It's puts dependability above everything else - it's all competence and no sparkle
- Used Mazda 626 Hatchback 1997 - 2002
What's the used Mazda 626 like?
There is nothing exciting or inspiring about a 626, but it will give years of dependable, efficient and inexpensive service.
It's not a looker, inside or out. However, that cabin is efficient, durable, reasonably well equipped and space is average for the class. The luggage area, too, is perfectly adequate; although, naturally, this hatch is more practical than its saloon sister.
Pros
- The 626 is a hard-wearing, reliable family motor with a no-nonsense cabin
Cons
- It's pretty dull to drive
The engines aren't bad, either - and they're positively good if your doctor recommends a steady-state-pulse kind of life. He or she won't approve of the stress caused on your spine by the firm ride, though.
And, ultimately, that's the real trouble with the 626 - after all its other qualities, the drive is a real let-down. The gearshift is inaccurate, the clutch hair-trigger and the throttle very sensitive. There's plenty of wind and road noise at speed, too.
Tips & Advice
Our recommendations
Which used Mazda 626 should I buy?
There are three body styles in the 626 range - hatchback, saloon and estate - and this practical hatch is the best of the bunch.
For the perfect combination, we recommend you go for the less powerful (and cheaper) of the two 2.0-litre petrol engines. The 113bhp motor is just as refined as the 136bhp version and does a decent enough job of hauling the 626 around.
By comparison, the 90bhp 1.8 petrol just hasn't got enough grunt, and even the 99bhp 2.0 turbodiesel isn't up to the job. Mind you, even if it was, we wouldn't be able to put up with its rattling.
There was a face-lift in early 2000, but you'd struggle to notice it, so don't worry about desperately trying find the newer car. However, for the record, it brought in a new grille, redesigned tail-lights and a two-tone interior, while the Sport model gained black wood inserts, two-tone leather wheel and white dials.
All models do well for kit and most have air-con, four airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction control.
