2002 Mazda Protege 5 review from North America

The front rotors were resurfaced at 20,000km.

The clutch and flywheel were replaced at 45,000km as per a Mazda TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) due to "chattering" when taking off from a stop.

The rear Mazda emblem corroded due to salt and was replaced at about 50,000km.

The driver's side sun visor wouldn't stay up so it was replaced at 70,000km or so.

The rims have chipped and bubbled badly, my dealer says that they won't replace them. I'm going to fight them on this one, I have the extended warranty until 160,000km.

There is no other car I would have bought in this class. I love it.

The fit and finish is incredible, with the exception of the easily chipped paint.

The factory stereo was quickly replaced with an Alpine AM-FM/CD/MP3 player.

Although a bit down on power, the handling and chassis more than make up for it. I love the stiff ride and the grippy high performance tires.

I compete in Autocross (Fully legal parking lot racing against the clock) with the car and it is mildly modified (synthetic gear oil, cold air intake, stainless exhaust, bigger rear sway bar, racing brake pads, ultra high performance summer tires, etc.) so I do put more wear and tear on the car than most and it has held up beautifully.