2003 Mazda Protege ES review from North America
"Zoom-zoom, true-true!!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
This car came with a great options package including 6-CD changer - the only thing I can complain about is the stock speakers, it sounds like they are made from paper cups.
General comments?
I have owned two Honda's and two VW's before this Mazda, this car really reminds me how reliable and inexpensive Japanese cars are to own.
My wife and I traded our 99 Jetta in because the parts are just too expensive - $380 for a mass flow air sensor? And at 110K that was just the beginning...
It seems like VW spent 100% of their engineering resources on driving performance, not long term reliability... fun to drive though (if you can afford it).
On to the Protege ES...
Great handling.
Well over 30 MPG.
The 4 wheel disk brakes feel great.
The power (and there is plenty as light as this car is) is at higher RPM, but normal for Japanese builds.
Well, all I need to do now is find some aftermarket speakers!
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| 2003 - Protege PR5 2.0 liter 4 cylinder Excellent choice in compact car |
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| I love to Zoom!~ |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 DOHC I4 Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 4 miles |
| Most recent distance | 1000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Jetta |
| Date of Entry | 17th November, 2003 |