2002
Mazda 626

Starts at:
$18,785
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New 2002 Mazda 626
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Sdn LX 4-Cyl Manual
    Starts at
    $18,785
    26 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn LX 4-Cyl Auto
    Starts at
    $18,785
    22 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn LX V6 Manual
    Starts at
    $19,985
    21 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn LX V6 Auto
    Starts at
    $19,985
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn ES V6 Auto
    Starts at
    $21,635
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn ES V6 Manual
    Starts at
    $21,635
    21 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn ES V6 Auto
    Starts at
    $21,885
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626 2002 Mazda 626

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Expert 2002 Mazda 626 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
A redesign of Mazda’s midsize, front-drive, four-door sedan could arrive for the 2003 model year — possibly as a larger model and accompanied by a wagon. The 626 has few changes for 2002; it carries on with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.5-liter V-6 and comes with either a manual or automatic transmission. Sales of the 626 dropped by 18 percent during 2000.

Ford owns a controlling interest in Mazda, and the 626 is built at a plant near Detroit that the two companies share. Designed in Japan, the sedan uses Mazda engines, and its front-drive platform also serves as the basis for the compact Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape sport utility vehicles. The 626 was last redesigned for the 1998 model year, when it reached true midsize proportions at that time.

Exterior
With a wheelbase that stretches to just over 105 inches, the 626 sedan measures 187.4 inches long overall — just slightly shorter than the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The 626 is 69.3 inches wide and 55.1 inches tall.

Interior
Seating five occupants, the 626 has front buckets and a three-place rear bench with a split, folding rear seatback. Cloth upholstery goes into the base LX sedan, but leather is standard in the upscale ES. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, remote keyless entry and a CD player. The security system has an immobilizing feature that activates if the wrong key is used in the ignition.

Under the Hood
Mazda’s standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 125 horsepower, and the optional 2.5-liter V-6 develops 165 hp. Both engines drive either a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. Antilock brakes and side-impact airbags for the front seats are available in an option group for all models.

Driving Impressions
The 626 has a mildly sporty nature. It has a comfortable ride but securely hugs the pavement. The tires will squeal if the car is pushed too hard in curves, but otherwise, it behaves nicely on the road. The 626 is easy to drive and has an excellent steering feel.

Whether the 626 is powered by the four-cylinder or V-6 engine, acceleration is livelier with the manual shift, which is no surprise. When this car is equipped with the automatic transmission and four-cylinder power plant, forward motion tends to ease a bit as the gears change. The automatic may occasionally shift with a bit of a lurch, but it functions properly most of the time. Seats are comfortable and supportive, and instruments are excellent. The 626 is an inviting automobile in most respects.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2002 Buying Guide

2002 Mazda 626 review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
A redesign of Mazda’s midsize, front-drive, four-door sedan could arrive for the 2003 model year — possibly as a larger model and accompanied by a wagon. The 626 has few changes for 2002; it carries on with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.5-liter V-6 and comes with either a manual or automatic transmission. Sales of the 626 dropped by 18 percent during 2000.

Ford owns a controlling interest in Mazda, and the 626 is built at a plant near Detroit that the two companies share. Designed in Japan, the sedan uses Mazda engines, and its front-drive platform also serves as the basis for the compact Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape sport utility vehicles. The 626 was last redesigned for the 1998 model year, when it reached true midsize proportions at that time.

Exterior
With a wheelbase that stretches to just over 105 inches, the 626 sedan measures 187.4 inches long overall — just slightly shorter than the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The 626 is 69.3 inches wide and 55.1 inches tall.

Interior
Seating five occupants, the 626 has front buckets and a three-place rear bench with a split, folding rear seatback. Cloth upholstery goes into the base LX sedan, but leather is standard in the upscale ES. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, remote keyless entry and a CD player. The security system has an immobilizing feature that activates if the wrong key is used in the ignition.

Under the Hood
Mazda’s standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 125 horsepower, and the optional 2.5-liter V-6 develops 165 hp. Both engines drive either a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. Antilock brakes and side-impact airbags for the front seats are available in an option group for all models.

Driving Impressions
The 626 has a mildly sporty nature. It has a comfortable ride but securely hugs the pavement. The tires will squeal if the car is pushed too hard in curves, but otherwise, it behaves nicely on the road. The 626 is easy to drive and has an excellent steering feel.

Whether the 626 is powered by the four-cylinder or V-6 engine, acceleration is livelier with the manual shift, which is no surprise. When this car is equipped with the automatic transmission and four-cylinder power plant, forward motion tends to ease a bit as the gears change. The automatic may occasionally shift with a bit of a lurch, but it functions properly most of the time. Seats are comfortable and supportive, and instruments are excellent. The 626 is an inviting automobile in most respects.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2002 Buying Guide

Factory warranties

Basic
3 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
3 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain
3 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 50,000 miles

Consumer reviews

90% of drivers recommend this car
4.2 / 5
Based on 11 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.4
Interior 4.4
Performance 3.6
Value 4.3
Exterior 4.1
Reliability 4.4

Most recent

  • By Bex from Tacoma WA
    Owns this car
    December 21, 2019

    I love My Mazda!

    This has been a great car. It is very comfortable and easy to drive. And it has been dependable for the last 16 years. That’s why my new car is a Mazda too
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Activenets from Phoenix, az
    Used to own this car
    March 27, 2018

    Best car ever

    Lasted many years and kept its value. Excellent 6 cyl engine. Good gas mileage. Comfortable and kept in perfectly clean condition. I would own another if it was still made.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Brenda from Louisville, KY
    Owns this car
    May 11, 2014

    VERY GOOD CAR!

    I love my car, service was great, salesman Tony was awesome,good luck with the new beautiful baby! Overall the Mazda 626 is a great car period!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Farmer from Los Angeles, CA
    Owns this car
    October 14, 2012

    Good engine, but lacks horsepower

    I bought this car used a few months ago and I like how the car handles and drives. It is reliable just like any other Japanese car. I only done an oil change, the tune up, change the tires, change brakes, and the change the timing belt. I heard that this car has transmission problems. I haven't had any problems with the transmission or anything else. The only thing that I don't like about this car is the horse power. I have a four cylinder and it takes a little time to get up to speed in the freeway. The fuel mileage for this four cylinder is decent. I am average about 24 in the city and 28 in the highway. I never owned a Mazda before but in the future when I get a stable job I am going to buy a new Mazda from the dealership.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Mazda fan from Cleveland, OH
    Owns this car
    July 19, 2011

    Great Engine, Poor Transmission

    I bought my 2002 Mazda 626 4cyl in 2006. It was originally a rental car in Florida before I owned it and was most probably abused. The best parts about this vehicle are it's reliable engine and it's comfort. I've been on many long drives between Ohio, North Carolina and New York and the driver's seat is excellent. Don't expect great mpg even with the 2.0L 4cyl. It has been averaging 22 city, 26 highway for me. The automatic transmission is sluggish and seems to be not geared for highway speeds. 2900 rpm at 65 mph is a bit high and it suffers mpg because of it. The 2002 model was the first year to include a transmission cooler because of overheating problems. There is no 2003 model, Mazda started making the Mazda6. Like many owners I've had my O/D light come on and it turned out to be a Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid. ~$550 fix But the engine with 102K miles sounds and runs great, but has a weak 130 hp.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Kfitz from kentucky
    Owns this car
    May 23, 2009

    Next best to a camrey or an accord

    I have no had any trouble out of this car. it just turned over 100000k miles and it still runs great.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By mazdafan from Norwalk, CT
    Owns this car
    March 23, 2009

    Great Car for the value

    Had a mazda for 6 years now and it still runs great, it is a great car for the value especially if you have a family.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Old Crab from Long Island, NY
    Owns this car
    April 4, 2008

    Good value and reliability for the price.

    The overheating problem is caused by the plastic overflow tank melting. I had to replace mine twice. Mazda is aware of this defect and should have recalled the vehicle for correction.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Like fast cars. from Tamarac, FL
    Owns this car
    December 13, 2006

    Owned car from new, 2000 626 EX

    To me it's been a 5 star car. I have owend this car from New 2000. It had to be towed one time in 6 years, gas pedal linkage. I also have a Mazda Miata.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Mazda lover from Pa
    Owns this car
    June 23, 2006

    Very Satisfied with my Mazda

    I am very pleased with my Mazda 626. It is a 2002 LX. It gets great milege to the gallon. I have never had one problem with it. The only thing I have done over the years is to get regular oil changes and replace tires. Mazda's a very reliable, durable vehicles. I would recommend this car to anyone!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Frustrated Mazda Owner from Norfolk, VA
    Owns this car
    May 16, 2006

    34000 miles is too early for transmission problems

    With the recent hikes in gas prices, I figured it was time to trade in my old vehicle and purchase something a little newer. Hoping to escape the overall cost of driving, I went ahead and purchased a 2002 Mazda 626. (2.0L LX) At first glance, I was taken by the smooth lines and attractive classic sedan styling. Upon sitting in the car for the first time, it was obvious the designers had long-term travel in mind. The seats were comfortable, and all the creature comforts were within arms reach. There was ampple space in the center console to place my favorite CD's, charge my cell phone, and keep any necessary travel companions. I took the car out for a test drive and had an enjoyable ride. She embraced curves and held corners well, but I was a little disappointed by the underpowered nature of the car. I guess you have to sacrifice somewhere, considering the car averages close to 30 miles per gallon overall, which was the original deciding factor for me to ultimately buy another car in the first place. When I left the lot, the car had just a shade over 31000 miles. Not bad for a five year old car, I figured it belonged to an older person who just simply didn't drive it as often. The first long trip I took in the car... (which I am still on) ended about 190 miles from the starting point. Leaving Norfolk, Virginia and headed to Portland, Maine, I felt as though the car could handle the 625 mile drive. But, alas, I was mistaken. On Delaware highway 1, with the music and the cruise control on, I was on my way home to surprise my family on Mother's Day weekend. (Being the last chance I get home before I deploy to the Persian Gulf for my second tour over there) It was there, that the overdrive light began flashing, and the car shuddered. I pulled over, and consulted the owner's manual, which stated that there was an electrical problem with the transaxle. (Already? At 34000 miles? I thought to myself.) Unfortunately this is going to be an expensive fix, considering my warranty was only the required 30 day 1,000 mile that is included in eveery used car purchase in Virginia. But I am thanking my lucky stars that there was a family who has taken me in until I can get this thing repaired. Hopefully in the future, I won't be so naive, and I will purchase the extended warranty. I would recommend that to anyone who does purchase this model.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 2.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 2.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2002 Mazda 626?

The 2002 Mazda 626 is available in 2 trim levels:

  • ES (3 styles)
  • LX (4 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2002 Mazda 626?

The 2002 Mazda 626 offers up to 26 MPG in city driving and 32 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 2002 Mazda 626 reliable?

The 2002 Mazda 626 has an average reliability rating of 4.4 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2002 Mazda 626 owners.

Is the 2002 Mazda 626 a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2002 Mazda 626. 90.9% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.2 / 5
Based on 11 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.4
  • Interior: 4.4
  • Performance: 3.6
  • Value: 4.3
  • Exterior: 4.1
  • Reliability: 4.4
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