2002 Mazda Protege: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mazda's '02 subcompact line offers sedans in base DX, LX, and ES models, along with a wagon called the Protege5. All have a 130-hp 4-cyl engine. Five-speed manual transmission is standard, automatic is optional; on ES and Protege5, the automatic gets a manual-shift feature. Front side airbags and ABS are grouped together in option packages for LX, ES, and Protege5. Protege5 has ES equipment and specific cosmetic touches inside and out, and is the only model available with leather upholstery. A limited run of MP3 models with a Kenwood audio system and performance-oriented wheels, tires, and chassis tuning sold out early in the model year. Mazda plans to sell a turbocharged version of the MP3 for the 2003 model year.

COMPETITION

A perennial favorite, the Honda Civic, is as good as 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. We also love almost everything about the Ford Focus, but 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. However, they are among the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the no-frills Toyota Echo, the sporty Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege.