2000 Mazda Protege DX review from North America

Passenger side axle had to be replaced because of accident.

The drivers side tail light bulb blew after 40,000 miles.

The plastic housing of the seat belt buckle cracked after 50,000 miles.

This car is overall the best car I could recommend to anyone.

After owning the car for 2 years and putting on 51,100 plus miles, I have experienced no major problems. The handling on the car is amazing; it can out handle many cars on the road today and I am never weary of other drivers ignorance on the road because I am secure with the safety features (new seat belts) and the supreme braking of this vehicle.

The interior space is adequate for the many trips that I make and can accommodate more than my share of the bags that I pack. I used this car once to help a friend move and I fit his entire King size water bed (unassembled of course) in the trunk and passanger compartment with little problem.

This isn't a car for speed. Though there are many modifications that can be made to it to hop up the engines horse power. I personally have put a custom exhaust system on the car and it sounds like a V8!

My favorite thing about the car is the exterior design. With its hint of European flair and curving design who wouldn't be attracted to it! The tail lights are large and very noticeable during the day and at night. There are plenty of windows to see out of and when you get used to the car blind spots are minimum.

It was a large step up from my Celica and I am extremely pleased with the performance and the reliability of this car.