Used 2002 Mazda Protege Sedan Consumer Reviews
My Amazing Mazda Protege LX 5spd.
My parents bought this car for me when I was 15. I loved it then, and I love it now. It is more than reliable and very good on gas. On average I get up to 34 mpg - somehow. Learning to drive this car was a breeze. The clutch is great and hasn't gone out on me yet. I drive it to school and back daily, so that's at least 40-45 miles. The only problem I've had is that sometimes my gears stick and my trunk popping mechanism was broken. But, it got fixed. I highly recommend this vehicle to new drivers and drivers who want the feel of a sports car wrapped up into a sporty, fun to drive sedan.
Look around, then come here!
Did a lot of looking around for a 4- door car with a manual and sunroof being my base criteria. Had a 98 Mercury Mystique which I consider to be a fine automobile. Mazda has this market all figured out. Awesome styling, amazing handling, and great options...this is a winner. Get the 5- speed, it's impressive. Also, get the 15" wheels...they'll set you apart!
Great car!
I bought my car used almost 4 years ago and love it! It is fun to drive, sporty, and gets pretty good gas mileage. It has enough pep and pick-up for me, but I can see how some people would want more hp. I have had a few problems with it - I've changed the thermostat, replaced both belts after they shredded, and have replaced the brakes twice. But it was a used car and has more than 80K miles on it so I figure it's going to have some problems. Nonetheless, I love my car and am looking into the Mazda 3 for my next car. Mazda delivers on its "zoom zoom" promise.
Best compact for the money
Needed a second car and looked at Mazda, Honda, Corolla, and Sentra. All great cars and each with its own character. But, when it was time to buy, Mazda offered the best deal($3000 better than any of the above with the same features) and was by far and away, the best car. Drives with aplomb, handles suberbly, breaks better than my Seville, interior is flawlessy designed and Quality is built in. Acceleration is more than I would expect from a compact car. I enjoy the comfort of this car better than my Cadillac--all though it does lack many digital gadgits. Overall, I would but this car again in a heart beat.
The Greates Car Ever
My Protege was my first new car and it was the greatest decision I ever made. A year later, it runs great and I got a good deal on it. It is so comfortable and stylish. When considering vehicles to buy, the Protege stood out as the best all around value for the options I could get for the price. I don't regret anything about buying my Protege and definitely recommend it for someone buying their first car.