2003 Mazda Protege PR5 review from North America

Nothing that is manufacturers fault. Someone keyed the car because of my Kerry-Edwards bumpersticker.

Excellent car! It is the very best I've driven. Prior to this car, I've usually driven Volvos and VWs, but I decided to go Japanese this time. The car handles extremely well. Very tight steering feel and it takes corners at much higher speeds without any instability than any other car I've ever had.

The seats are firm, which I like. The ride is firm, and that doesn't bother me. I have had some passengers complain about the ride.

The quality of the materials used appears to be very high. There are no squeaks or rattles (unlike my old Volvo 240) and everything looks carefully assembled.

The gas mileage is pretty good, but could be better for a 4 cylinder. The car is also noisy in a nice sort of way. I like it, some others may not.

The local Mazda dealership is great. The service department is very knowledgable and helpful when I've taken it in for routine maintenance.

The cargo area is very roomy and so is the backseat. It is a capable family car in addition to being pretty sporty and fun.

I am fairly certain I will look at mazda next time I, but a car.