Mazda MX-6

Coming out of Michigan rather than Japan, and built in a plant shared by Mazda and Ford, the MX-6 sport coupe was based on the same platform as the Mazda 626 and the Ford Probe, and was part of the continuing collaboration between Japan-based Mazda and U.S.-based Ford -- a collaboration that had benefits for both automakers.
The MX-6 sported a sleek, sweptback design that appealed to drivers who wanted something other than a stodgy sedan or coupe. Handling, styling, responsiveness, and reliability were all part of the MX-6's appeal, though the back seat was decidedly cramped, so this was probably not the best car for families.
For its first few years the MX-6 was powered by a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produced 110 horsepower. A GT version of the MX-6, available for the car's first three years, dropped a turbocharged, 145-horsepower version of the 2.2-liter four-cylinder under the hood, which drove the car nicely through the corners and out on the open road.
The MX-6 received its only full redesign in 1993, and changed little after that. For the most part, two trim packages were available in the MX-6's later years. A base (or standard) version was powered by a 118-horsepower, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, while the higher-end LS version got a nice kick in the power department with a 164-horsepower, 2.5-liter V6.
In addition, an M-Edition, also powered by the 164-hp V6 and equipped with such features as leather seats, a sunroof, and a CD changer, was available for the 1996 model year only.