MAZDA 626 (Mk.5) Sedan 1997-2002 Photos, engines & full specs

Mazda introduced the sixth generation of the mid-size sedan 626 in 1997 and built it with Ford when the two carmakers made the AutoAlliance International.

Even though there were some variations between the American, the European, and the Australasian versions, the 626 shared some components. They were all based on the same GF platform, which meant independent suspension in all corners.

Mazda tried to make the car looks subtle, and it made it too well. It didn't stand out in a parking lot. Its chromed slat on top of the small grille and narrow but wide headlights didn't have anything special. While the same carmaker created inspired shapes for the RX7, it couldn't do the same for a car that was supposed to sell in large numbers. The windshield and the rear windscreen had about the same angle tilted toward the roof. The four-door version, which was popular in the U.S. and Japan, didn't feature an additional glass area behind the rear doors but provided a remote-opening trunk.

Inside, the carmaker created a roomy interior, but the rear passengers were disturbed by a tall center tunnel. That came with the platform, which Mazda used for the all-wheel-drive versions available in Japan. On the base trim levels, the 626 featured velour upholstery, but the leather seats were available on the upper trim level. At the front, the rounded dashboard sported a center stack for the climate control unit and the audio system.

Under the hood, Mazda installed a mix of engines either built by it or carried over from Ford Motor Company. A five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic was available, depending on the powerplant and the country where the vehicle was sold.