2002 Mazda Protege 5 review from North America
"A great handling annoyance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Very wind noisy on hwy, especially from roofrack. And even without roofrack.
Low profile tires are $150 to replace per tire (I had to for 2 damaged by potholes)
Mileage is not as good as est. With 60% city, 40% hwy. Avg 22 mpg.
Roof rack whistles. Mazda does not have fix. Couldn't use rack.
Exterior dings very easily.
Parking bumps in city damage bumper paint very easily.
General comments?
Acceleration is pretty peppy.
Handling is very good.
Hatch functionality is wonderful, especially with hard cover for hatch area.
Sound system is very good. Should be good in order to cover the wind noise on highway.
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![]() ![]() | Nice in a lot of ways, but overall unrefined and illogical |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0L Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 100 miles |
| Most recent distance | 10000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda Protege |
| Date of Entry | 14th January, 2003 |

