New Mazda Sedans 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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2002 Mazda Protege - DX (M5)
Pros: peppy engine with good fuel economy
Cons: seats are a liitle stiff
Advice: If you are considering a Hyundai Elantra, check this vehicle out it only costs about $1,000 more but is much better built and will last a long,long time.
Did not test drive, purchased sight unseen thru carsdirect.com -
2002 Mazda Protege - LX (M5)
Pros: The sunroof/side impact/abs package is awesome.
Cons: Lack of trunk button on remote. Also, the security system is really sensitive
Advice: Make sure you can handle the legroom in the back
So far I love this car. I have the LX model, the ES was a bit too expensive for what I could get right now. I might have to upload another review, but so far, and that's only a few hundred miles, I really like it. The driver seat adjusts will enough that I can find a good position for my back, as opposed to my Saturn SL2. The only drawback I find so far is no remote trunk button and the cup holders are for cups. No bottled water here. Tight turn and it's out. -
2002 Mazda Protege5 - (M5)
Pros: The handling is fantastic
Cons: Noise from the open sunroof
Advice: The options are well worth the extra money
I love this car!!!! It looks great, drives fantastic, and for the size of the vehicle has lots of space for me, my girlfriend and our stuff. Price had a lot to do with my decision, and for the price I paid I feel that I have got a very good deal. It is great on gas mileage, even on a short commute. I have had a lot of people ask me about the car, they like the look of it. Other drivers of the P5 have said they love it too, and being a Brit, i love it's European styling. -
2002 Mazda Protege5 - (M5)
Pros: Handling, Braking, Ride Quality & Appearance
Cons: The people who stare at my car
Advice: Order yours today
Get one. How often do you actually see this car. I'm already tired of people calling my car the Matrix. This is the underdog of small wagons. Power isn't everything. This car is fast in curves but not a red light racer. Sure there will be aftermarket parts but right now this car is already a winner -
2002 Mazda Protege - ES (M5)
Pros: high reving engine
Cons: transmission
Advice: buy it from a good dealer
I bought a 2001 ES 2.0. I have had the car for over a year now and my only compliant is the transmission. I opted for the 5 speed, great speed and handling, but when the temperature gets close to freezing it acts as though I am not using the clutch. I have taken it to the dealer three times and they fixed it once. Three months later same problem. Not to worry I am trading this car in for a jeep liberty. Great car, poor transmission. -
2002 Mazda Protege - LX (M5)
Pros: Acceleration, handling, comfort.
Cons: No automatic door lock, no remote trunk entry on keyless entry pad.
Advice: Buy ES model.
Spend the extra money on the ES model. Not only are the looks improved by the carbon fiber dash, white face guages, spoiler, and fog lights, but you'll also get the 16 inch, 5 lug wheels, low profile tires, and 4 wheel disc brakes. The two other models come with 15 inch, 4 lug wheels, and rear drum brakes. Another great option is the power sun roof with wind deflector, at only 800 dollars. The Protege is comfortable, quick, and has excellent handling. As a six footer, my head would brush the interior roof in most cars of this size, unless I slouched a bit. Not so in the Protege. Even with the 4 speed automatic the car accelerates very well, and fuel economy drops by only one MPG highway compared to the standard transmission, while remaining the same in city driving. The car feels very solid on the road, while delivering a good, quality ride, if not exactly a butter-smooth one. Engine and road noise are present, but not intrusive. Mazda's bumper to bumper warranty period is 36 months/50,000 miles, as opposed to the 36/36 found on most other models. To me, the Protege is a blend of the best of Japanese and German car making philosophies. -
2002 Mazda Protege5 - (M5)
Pros: Excellent HVAC.
Cons: Monthly payments.
Advice: What took you so long?
This is my first Japanise car and I absolutly love it. The handeling is outstanding. The fit and finish is refreshing. It's like driving an expanded rubber band, it's so tight. I'm 6'4' and the leg room up front is better than my 2002 Taurus. I have had it for a year (I bought the first one in my city)and I have had not one warrenty issue. As far as power I have more off the line response than the Taurus. It's like driving a Swiss watch, craftsmanship.