Mazda 626
22 MPG The 2002 Mazda 626 is EPA-rated at 22 MPG combined (19.8 city / 25.8 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 682 gallons, $2182 a year in fuel, or $0.145 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 1984–2002 run it averages 23 MPG, falling by 5 MPG over 14 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.114 | $1136 | $1705 | $2273 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.136 | $1364 | $2045 | $2727 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.145 | $1455 | $2182 | $2909 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.159 | $1591 | $2386 | $3182 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.182 | $1818 | $2727 | $3636 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.205 | $2045 | $3068 | $4091 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.227 | $2273 | $3409 | $4545 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 22 MPG | 19.8 | 25.8 | $3213 | 407 | 4 |
| 2001 | 22 MPG | 19.8 | 25.8 | $3213 | 407 | 4 |
| 2000 | 22 MPG | 19.8 | 25.8 | $3213 | 407 | 4 |
| 1999 | 22.3 MPG | 19.8 | 26.3 | $3188 | 403 | 4 |
| 1998 | 22.3 MPG | 19.8 | 26.3 | $3188 | 403 | 4 |
| 1997 | 22.5 MPG | 20 | 27 | $3175 | 400 | 4 |
| 1996 | 22.3 MPG | 19.8 | 26.8 | $3200 | 404 | 4 |
| 1995 | 22.3 MPG | 19.8 | 26.8 | $3200 | 404 | 4 |
| 1994 | 22.3 MPG | 19.8 | 26.8 | $3200 | 404 | 4 |
| 1993 | 22 MPG | 19.8 | 26.5 | $3250 | 410 | 4 |
| 1987 | 23 MPG | 20.7 | 27 | $2733 | 388 | 3 |
| 1986 | 23.3 MPG | 21 | 27 | $2683 | 382 | 3 |
| 1985 | 27 MPG | 25 | 31 | $2517 | 350 | 3 |
| 1984 | 27 MPG | 25 | 31 | $2517 | 350 | 6 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 261 midsize cars models tracked here, the Mazda 626 ranks 144 on current figures, against a class average of 27.2 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Chrysler LeBaron GTS (22.1), Dodge Lancer (22.1), Cadillac CTS (22.3), Cadillac CT5 AWD (22.5), Cadillac CTS AWD (22.5).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 407 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.1 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Mazda 626 get?
The 2002 Mazda 626 is rated at 22 MPG combined by the EPA — 19.8 city and 25.8 highway. Across all 14 model years in the database it averages 23 MPG, ranging from 19 to 33 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Mazda 626 cost in fuel per year?
At 22 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 682 gallons — roughly $2182 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.145 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2002 model is $3213.
Has the Mazda 626 become more efficient over time?
No — it has actually gone backwards, from 27 MPG in 1984 to 22 in 2002. That usually reflects the model growing heavier, more powerful, or moving upmarket rather than the engineering getting worse.
Is the Mazda 626 efficient for its class?
It ranks 144 of 261 in the Midsize Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 27.2 MPG. That is 5.2 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.