2001 Mazda Protege: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Midyear additions to Mazda's subcompact line are its first wagon body style and a new sedan with a high-tech audio system. The wagon is an early 2002 model called the Protege5. The new sedan is called the MP3. They join base DX and midline LX sedans, which have a 105-hp 1.6-liter 4-cyl engine. Protege5 and LX 2.0 and top-line ES sedans have a 130-hp 2.0. MP3 uses a 140-hp 2.0, and comes only with manual transmission; others offer manual or automatic transmission. All '01 models got fresh front-end styling, more sound deadening, revised steering, split-fold rear seatbacks, and revamped console and cupholders. Front side airbags packaged with ABS are optional for 2.0-liter models. Wheels are 14-inchers on DX/LX, 15s on LX 2.0, 16s on ES and wagon. MP3 has 17-inch wheels and tires, special chassis tuning, unique trim, and a Kenwood audio system that plays MP3-encoded CDs. Protege5 has ES equipment and specific cosmetic touches inside and out.

COMPETITION

A perennial favorite, the Honda Civic, is new and better than ever. We love the wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and a high degree of civility. New last year was the Ford Focus. Though we loved almost everything about the Focus, we were reluctant to rank it a Best Buy because it was new from the ground up. After a year of living with a ZTS model, we can say that the reliability is good. Focus ranks a notch below Civic in some areas but costs less. Topping the crowded Recommended list are the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys as they are better than the Civic in many ways. However, they are also the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the no-frills Dodge Neon and Toyota Echo, the slightly-upscale Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege. If you are looking for a budget buy, the Hyundai Accent offers a lot for your dollar, however, it's not as refined as more-expensive competitors.