2001 Mazda Protege LX review from North America
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clutch shudder is apparent.
Extremely noisy engine upon cold startup and acceleration until the engine is hot. This requires the replacement of the Variable Tumble Control valve and PCM reprogramming. Mazda will not cover even though it's only 2 months out of warranty and has only 30000kms on it.
Seat fabric is starting to wear
Needed to apply rust undercoating early as signs of rust were appearing
The factory radio is unimpressive and the back-light has failed.
Extremely variable idle when cold.
General comments?
The car was reasonably priced
I fit into it better than any other subcompact (I am 6'4")
The brakes are very strong
The car handles very well
It accelerates well
The A/C is cold, must better than in my previous Honda Accord.
The site lines are very good.
The 2.0 engine revs at over 3000RPM at 100km/h. Om our 1994 626 the 2.0 revved at 2600.
Recommended Reviews:
  | If it were not for the cars stylish look I would be very unhappy |
| This model is a joy to drive and own, and was a terrific bargain |
All 2001 Mazda Protege reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 29000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 14th June, 2004 |