1999-2003 Mazda Protege: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mazda redesigned its front-drive subcompact sedan for 1999, with "European-inspired styling." Considered all-new, the "entry-level" 4-door also got more power, but interior and exterior dimensions changed only slightly. Three versions again went on sale: base DX, well-equipped LX, and sporty ES. DX and LX models got a new 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, rated at 105 horsepower (13 more than the prior 1.5-liter). A new 1.8-liter 4-cylinder, developing 122 horsepower, went into the ES sedan. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard with both engines, with 4-speed automatic optional. Antilock braking was optional for the LX and ES, but side-impact airbags were not available. The ES sedan now had rear drum brakes, though all-disc braking had previously been installed.