April 2000 Volume 81 Number 4 "serving the protectors"
Mazda’s 21st Century 626
By Jim Barnett

he ride and handling of Mazda’s new mid-size 626 is excellent. It could be little else with improved steering response, predictable flat cornering on winding country roads and quality braking.

Its 2.0-litre engine is a smooth, free-revving and capable performer, which provides reasonable acceleration and excellent fuel economy - around 10 litres per 100km. In fact, Mazda claims the new model can travel between Melbourne and Sydney on a single tank of fuel.

With some cosmetic surgery, the new 626 range looks smarter and offers many mechanical and equipment improvements.

Mazda has also rationalized the range to provide two specification levels: Limited and Classic in sedan format, and Classic in hatchback and wagon. All models are powered by the carry-over 2.0-litre, DOHC, four-cylinder, multi-valve engine which produces 93kW at 5500 rpm.

Upgraded four-speed automatic and five-speed manual transmissions feature across the range. Auto models are now fitted with the FN4A-EL transmission, taken from Mazda’s smaller 323. The second gear ratio in manual models has been changed from 1.833:1 to 1.842:1 to improve acceleration.

Although the car’s overall shape is relatively conservative, the striking new front-end treatment makes 626 stand out in a crowd. It is brought into the 21st century by:

• A new five-point grille.
• Distinctive bonnet sculpturing.
• Lower and wider headlamps.
• Restyled bumper featuring a lower air intake.
• Revised lamp clusters and rear bumper bar.

Wind noise has been reduced by shape alterations to the roof rain-gutter moulding and improvements on front-door mouldings.

In addition to standard air conditioning and driver and passenger airbags, all models are now fitted with:

• A power-operated radio antenna.
• Remote central locking with “double-lock” function.
• Illuminated entry system with delayed fade.

Pleasing to the eye are the 626’s new exterior paint colours, new instruments and more inviting interiors, which feature new fabric colours.

A significant equipment upgrade to the Classic models includes:

• Automatic climate control air-conditioning.
• In-dash CD player.
• Leather steering wheel and gear shift knob.
• Wood-grain finish to the centre console.
  
  Other carry-over features in Classic models include:
  
  
• Alloy wheels.
• Fog lamps.
• Power windows.
• Cruise control.
• ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution.

Improvements to the steering, suspension and engine have endowed the new model with improved handling stability, ride comfort and increased body rigidity.

These improvements enhance driveability and improve NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels.

The Police Journal tested the latest auto Classic Hatch, which is finished in beautiful metallic Seychelles Green duco. Inside, the car is comfortable and refined, and offers excellent visibility, quiet operation and high levels of occupant safety and creature comforts.

The option of a more powerful engine - perhaps a small V6 - would probably attract more customers to Mazda showrooms. Even though the 2.0-litre is well matched to the car, some would prefer extra power for more spirited acceleration and towing.

The Limited manual sedan ($27,300) is not the cheapest four-cylinder car in this segment, but with its standard equipment and level of refinement it represents good value for money.

The comprehensively-equipped auto Classic Hatch is priced at $34,690.

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