Mazda Protege Ratings
Getting firsthand information from an actual car owner is one sure way to get an idea of car performance once it leaves the lot. Autobytel features real consumer reviews that give the unbiased experience of a car.
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2003 Mazda Protege - LX (A4)
Ultra dependable car that just keeps on going. Engine and transmission work perfect. No oil burning, no bad shifting, nothing. Like new at 190,000 miles. Still looks good after all those years and does not look like old school. Pretty much fits right in with new cars in the parking lots. Peppy performance and handles very well. Gas mileage is outrageously high for a non hybrid at 42 Hwy and 28 City. Pretty much everything you could ask for in a car. I still see a lot of them on the roads.
- Recommend this vehicle to a friend? Yes
- How long have you owned this vehicle? 7 years
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1999 Mazda Protege
Never a problem with this car
Pros: Reliability
Cons: small back seat
I bought this car new and have 100,000 + miles on it now. Never had any problem or any major expenses.- Recommend this vehicle to a friend? No
- How long have you owned this vehicle? 5 years
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2002 Mazda Protege - ES (M5)
Pros: Getting rid of it ASAP!
Cons: The fact that the factory does not back up its product, except with apologies.
Advice: DO NOT BUY!!!
If you like yourself at all, do NOT buy a Mazda. Rod bearings went out after less than three years, requiring engine overhaul costing $2,000.00. I took excellent care of this car, always meeting service requirements. After 50,000 miles you are on your own. Buyer beware! I wish I would have bought a different brand, because this one was a LEMON!!! I will NEVER buy another Mazda vehicle again!! -
2003 Mazda Protege - LX (M5)
Pros: I've had this car for almost a year and I still I love practically everything about this car. It's spacious in the front and back seats, which I appreciate the most.
Cons: I wish the front passenger had an automatic door lock control.
Advice: With this car, you get the most for your money without settling. It's great quality for a whole lot less than a Civic.
After test driving the Protege, Cavalier and Civic, I thought this car had the most to offer. It really hugged the road for a 'sporty' feel. -
2003 Mazda Protege - LX (M5)
Pros: Good handling and design
Cons: Everythink except for the two things above
Advice: Please, do not consider this car at all.
I bought this car two month ago for some reasons. But so far my car's been in garage 10 times. Still less than 3000 miles. I'm upset of Mazda which refused to admitt the car's defects. First, Mazda is notorious of the rough idling, and this protege is no exception. It's due to the faulty EGR valve. You can't fix your idle problem forever. Give up! But if you're not sensitive, you can't detect the symptom forever. So be ignorant. I can't understand why people here like this car. Don't believe such people. I was a mechanic in army. Because of the EGR the acceleration is horrible. Riding is too stiff. And because of the poor mechanical queality(it is a japanese car?), the car squeaks everywhere. Transmission is the worst(it's ford's) Last word, you can't fix these problems. Be ignorant or do not buy it. There is no recall for this car. I don't like Mazda. (P.S) I bought this car because of its design. I'm more horrible...) -
2003 Mazda Protege - ES (M5)
Pros: Lots of pep for a small car.
Cons: Cupholders need some work.
Advice: If you want a car that can hold a turn, this is it!!
Others think this car is a little rough, however I disagree. If you want to know what rought is, drive a Kia Sportage, the Protege will feel smooth. -
2003 Mazda Protege - ES (M5)
Pros: 4 wheel disc brakes
Cons: no back seat cup holders
Advice: be careful of getting speeding tickets, its fast
Amazing performance for a compact car, handles great, tight construction, and a ton of options at a reasonable price.