The Mazda 626 V Station Wagon, specifically the GF/GW generation produced between 1998 and 2001, represented Mazda’s entry into the competitive European and Asian station wagon market. This variant, equipped with the 2.0 Turbo DI engine producing 101 horsepower, occupied a middle ground in the 626 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, practicality, and a degree of performance not found in the lower-powered naturally aspirated models. It was positioned as a sensible choice for families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle with reasonable running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 626 |
| Generation | 626 V Station Wagon (GF,GW) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 Turbo DI (101 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 72.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 158.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 101 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1800 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RF4F |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1385 kg (3053.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1935 kg (4265.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 485 l (17.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1677 l (59.22 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4670 mm (183.86 in.) |
| Width | 1710 mm (67.32 in.) |
| Height | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this 626 variant is the RF4F 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine. This engine utilized direct injection (DI) technology, a relatively advanced feature for its time, allowing for more precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engine employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, operating four valves per cylinder. The turbocharger, a key component, boosted power output significantly compared to naturally aspirated versions of the 2.0-liter engine. The engine’s 18.8:1 compression ratio was typical for a direct injection diesel, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The five-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 101 horsepower and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 Turbo DI engine offered a noticeable improvement in performance over the base 1.8-liter gasoline engine. While not a sports car, the turbo diesel provided adequate acceleration for highway merging and overtaking. The 0-60 mph time of around 12.8 seconds reflects this. The turbocharger did introduce a degree of turbo lag, meaning there was a slight delay between pressing the accelerator and feeling the full power delivery. However, once spooled up, the engine provided a useful surge of torque, particularly at lower and mid-range RPMs. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the higher-output V6 models, the 2.0 Turbo DI prioritized fuel economy and usability over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 626 V Station Wagon with the 2.0 Turbo DI engine typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power windows, central locking, power steering, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use. Optional extras could include air conditioning, a sunroof, and a higher-end audio system. The trim level was generally considered mid-range, offering a good balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The 626 V Station Wagon utilized a conventional front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a wishbone suspension in the rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering was rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 626 V Station Wagon 2.0 Turbo DI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and practical station wagon body style. The turbo diesel engine was considered a good compromise between performance and economy. However, some critics noted the presence of turbo lag and the engine’s slightly noisy operation. Compared to the gasoline-powered 626 models, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy but slightly less refinement. Compared to other station wagons in its class, such as the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the 626 offered a competitive package with a distinctive Japanese design aesthetic.
Legacy
The RF4F engine, while generally reliable, is now showing its age. Common issues include turbocharger wear, injector problems, and potential issues with the fuel injection pump. However, with proper maintenance, these engines can still provide many years of service. The 626 V Station Wagon 2.0 Turbo DI remains a relatively affordable and practical used car, appealing to those seeking a spacious and fuel-efficient vehicle. Its status as a somewhat niche model, combined with its relatively robust construction, means that well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly sought after by enthusiasts.
