AX Telstar

Bulbous organic aero styling inside and out sat on comprehensively revised drivetrains, new suspension and a wider cabin and track.

Based on the fourth generation Mazda 626, the Telstar TX5 Ghia hatchback ran concurrently with the dying Corsair until the GLX and Ghia sedans usurped the latter in late ’92.

Equipment levels were high while the top-line TX5 was the only Ford to offer faddish four-wheel steering.

Two new twin-cam, multi-valve engines and transmissions were available – an 85kW 2.0L “4” or Mazda’s smooth 121kW 2.5L V6, paired to either a four-speed auto or five-speed manual.

Sales were brisk and both the Telstar and 626 deservedly won awards.