Mazda added an upscale M-Edition to its lineup of MX-6 sport coupes for 1996. Other than that, the cars remained unchanged from the previous year. In addition to the M-Edition, the MX-6 was available in base (or standard) and LS trim packages. The base MX-6 was equipped with a 118-horsepower, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, while the LS and M-Edition were powered by a 164-horsepower, 2.5-liter V6. A five-speed manual transmission was standard across the line, while a four-speed automatic was optional. Standard features for the base model included power brakes, power windows, power door locks, and power exterior mirrors, as well as dual airbags, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM/cassette audio system. The LS added such features as air conditioning and a sunroof, as well as fog lights, an anti-theft alarm system, and alloy wheels. The M-Edition also included leather seats, anti-lock brakes, a keyless entry system, a CD changer, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, among other features. Better gas mileage was one improvement that could have made the MX-6 better, drivers noted. Room in the back seat was also limited. However, drivers liked the MX-6's styling, handling, performance, reliability, and ride.