For 1993, the Mazda 626 was totally redesigned. The body was restyled to more rounded and up-to-date, and a driver's side air bag was now standard. The base engine was larger and more powerful, and the top-of-the-line model came equipped with a V6.

The 1993 Mazda 626 is available in three trims: the base DX, the midrange LX, and the ES V6. The ES is the high-end version, coming well equipped with amenities such as power seats and leather upholstery. The base engine is a 2.0-liter, 118-horsepower four cylinder. The V6 boasts 2.5 liters and 164 horsepower. Fuel economy for the base engine was 23/31, and for the V6 it was20/26.

With its redesign, the Mazda 626 began to establish itself more as a driver's car than an econobox. Drivers are especially enthusiastic about the ES's V6, which they say is fun to drive and has excellent acceleration. Overall, drivers praise the car for its reliability, excellent handling, and comfort. Some complain about noisiness and the inferior quality of the sound system.