2000 Mazda 626: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Optional front side airbags headline year-2000 changes to Mazda's best-selling car. The 626 is available in LX and uplevel ES trim, both with 4-cylinder or optional V6 power. The 4-cylinder ES comes with automatic transmission; other models offer manual or optional automatic. All 626s except the 4-cylinder LX have standard 4-wheel disc brakes. Antilock brakes are optional across the board and include traction control on V6 models. The new front side airbags are included in the ABS option package. Four-cylinder LXs now have standard 15-inch wheels instead of 14s. And 16-inch alloys replace 15s as standard on the ES V6 and as optional on the LX V6. All models now have rear-seat heater ducts and heated outside mirrors are newly standard for the ES V6, optional elsewhere.

COMPETITION

Mazda's 626 gets the nod as the Best Buy in this class. Not because it's the fastest or roomiest, but because it is the best all-around performer. Ranging in price from $18,000 to $22,000 depending on equipment and engine choice, the 626 offers room for four large adults, a comfortable but sporty ride, above average acceleration, and good fuel economy.

Recommended choices include the sporty Mitsubishi Galant, the vanilla Nissan Altima, the powerful Oldsmobile Alero, and the refined Volkswagen Passat.

Hyundai's Sonata is our Budget Buy here. Though it's just an average performer on the road, its below average price and quality construction help it stand out. Chrysler's new PT Cruiser is the wildcard in this segment. Not really a sport-utility or minivan, the PT has been well-received by our staff. It offers versatility and eye-catching styling not found among compact cars.