Overview & Reviews

User Reviews:

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  ZOOM ZOOM = FUN FUN! - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By mkgyre - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I have had my 2003 ES for a month now, do not buy anything until you drive a protege! I am 63 and 310 and I can actually move the drives seat FORWARD and still be comfortable! I refused to get anything but a manual so while the HP output could be better,the manual provided plenty of low-end and highway passing power. I have run my car hard both in the city and on the highway and only gone under 30mpg once. This cars handling is UNBELIEVEABLE! I took a 90 degree banked corner at about 40MPH and the car stuck to the road like a suicidal squirrel. My wife loved my car SO MUCH that we went back to the Mazda dealer and got her a Mazda 6!

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  I love my Protege! - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By A. Pepe - June 23 - 12:13 pm

  The 2003 ES is my second Protege - I previously owned a 1999 LX. This car is very reliable & an excellent buy. The fuel efficiency is great, although slightly lower than the 1999 model - I average about 27 mpg with a combo of city & highway drivng. My only criticism is that, with only 130 hp, the Protege lacks some acceleration & power. However, what it lacks in those areas it more than compensates for in handling & braking The Protege is amazing for a car in this class - it handles & stops like a much more expensive car, making it extremely fun to drive. If Mazda continues to build fun, reliable cars like this, Ill be a Mazda owner for life.

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  King of the compacts! - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By wetcoaster - April 25 - 10:00 am

  Bought the Protege as a replacement for a totaled Corolla. Suffice to say, the Toyota isnt missed too much! Mazda has done well with its Protege series, blending attractive, if not standout, looks, sporty performance, and a good range of features. The Protege is great fun to drive around in with its tight handling characteristics. Its comfortable interior is well-appointed and coordinated for a car of its price range. All in all, its a good-looking car thats equal parts practicality and sportiness. Lets hope Mazda is able to maintain this balance with the new 3. So who says nothing good comes out of an accident?