2000 Mazda Protege: Road Test
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2000 Mazda Protege ▼
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- MSRP: $12,215 -$15,315
- Invoice: $11,679 -$14,162
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Our road test for the 2000 Mazda Protege includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Mazda Protege from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Mazda Protege, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Mazda Protege help you decide if a 2000 Mazda Protege is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 3.7 |
All models are slow away from a stop, although the pace quickens once up to 20 mph or so. Acceleration is adequate with the manual transmission, but disappointing with the automatic.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
Our test '99 5-speed ES averaged 26.6 mpg with lots of highway driving.
RIDE QUALITY
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.5 |
DX and LX models offer a supple yet controlled ride; the ES shares the same suspension, but its lower-profile tires don't smother small road imperfections as well.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 4.3 |
In the ride/handling equation, Protege gives preference to handling ability and delivers firm steering and sporty road manners.
QUIETNESS
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
Markedly higher level of engine, road, and wind noise than most subcompact rivals.
CONTROLS
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
Controlling the climate system are rotary knobs that are just out of the driver's easy reach and a bit too small to easily use. Otherwise, the dashboard is well laid out.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.2 |
One of the most spacious subcompact sedans, with relatively abundant front head room. Even the DX is fitted with a nice blend of fabrics and rich-looking plastic surfaces.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 2.8 |
Leg room is above average, head room average. Wide rear doors make it easy to slide your feet in and out.
CARGO ROOM
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
About average for the class, though all models come with a 60/40 split folding rear seatback.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4.2 |
Protege tends to be overlooked by subcompact buyers. That's a shame, because in terms of room and driving pleasure it equals--even exceeds--such standouts and the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. It's easy to recommend, with the DX in particular a cut above most base-model subcompacts.
Total Score
| LX, 1.6 4 cyl auto. | ES w/ABS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 49 | 53 | 41.7 |
Total Score: 51
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