2002 Mazda 626: Road Test
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2002 Mazda 626 ▼
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- MSRP: $18,785 -$21,885
- Invoice: $17,327 -$20,180
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Our road test for the 2002 Mazda 626 includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Mazda 626 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Mazda 626, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Mazda 626 help you decide if a 2002 Mazda 626 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 3.7 |
The 4 cyl is adequate with manual transmission but sluggish with automatic. V6s are lively either way, but best with manual. Regardless of engine, Mazda's automatic sometimes downshifts with a jerk.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6.7 |
Test manual-transmission V6 averaged 22.5 mpg. Expect slightly less with automatic, slightly more with a 4 cyl.
RIDE QUALITY
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
Absorbent and well-controlled, though high-speed dips induce some float.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 4.9 |
Not sport-sedan crisp, but body lean in turns is mild. Braking is good, with little nosedive and steady tracking in hard stops. We recommend the ABS/side-airbag option.
QUIETNESS
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.6 |
Engine and wind well muffled. Tire roar too audible on coarse pavement.
CONTROLS
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Generic design, but nothing's obstructed, poorly marked, or difficult to reach. Oscillating center dash vents are a nice touch. Interior materials better than compact-class norm.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
Good head room in an airy cabin. Firm, supportive seats. Tall drivers might want more rearward seat travel to get further from steering wheel. OK outward visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.2 |
Rivals some midsize sedans in allowing 6-footers to sit in tandem without the rear rider's knees digging into the front seats. Good toe room, too. Still, too narrow for three-abreast adult seating.
CARGO ROOM
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Generously sized, usefully shaped with a low lift-over and relatively large opening.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 4.7 |
Not the sportiest compact sedan, but all-around competence makes it worth considering. The solid 626 tends to be overlooked by buyers, so moderate demand and stiff competition should mean attractive discounts.
Total Score
| LX, 4 cyl auto. | ES, V6 auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 52 | 54 | 44.2 |
Total Score: 53
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