Used 2003 Mazda Protege Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Reliable as the Sun
trogglbey, 06/01/2009
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have a paper route; that is 60 miles a night of continuous stop and go with a heavy load of newspapers. This car never complains. Still has excellent get up and go with almost 150000 miles of hard driving. Never been in the shop for anything aside from a belt replacement and an AC recharge. Most reliable and solid little car I've ever owned. No rattles, clunks, or squeaks to drive one crazy. I love this car.
A LITTLE WIND NOISE
PROTEGE OWNER, 01/11/2004
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
EVER SINCE I BOUGHT THE PROTEGE 3 MONTHS AGO AFTER I TOTALLED OUT A HYUNDAI 01 ELANTRA I HAVE BEEN NOTHING BUT IMPRESSED.
Buy a 5!
maz, 01/29/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I own the Protege 5 and love it. There are faster sport wagons, but the Mercedes styling and crisp handeling make the Protege a blast to drive. I feel it is the best bargin on the market. Get the 5 speed! If you don't drive a clutch, learn!
Maza vs. Subaru
Matt, 10/25/2005
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife drives the Mazda and I drive the Subaru. She loves it. Only issue so far - passenger window fell off the track. This vehicle comes with a 50,000 mile warranty. Dealer fixed it, no hassle. I raced my wife one time off the line with our 2000 Subaru Legacy GT Wagon (165hp). She won! but not by much =). We've been very pleased with this car. Never bought Mazda before, happy we did. Would definitely buy Mazda again.
Not a dragster
Lyndal, 02/12/2004
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Paid 12300 out the door.Good work car warms up fast in cold winters and runs fine.Like the cd player sounds clear and easy to use. Kids like it, has rear heat duct under seats that work and has fair comfort.Nice trunk space that is roomy.Very solid with no rattles.
So Far - Luvin It
DWolfe, 02/04/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So far, have had the car less than a week. I admit - I love it. while it could use more HP (I think every one is in agreement on that) - it is a blast to drive. Handles fantastic. Right now I look for excuses to drive it around - normally it would just be for the commute.
Zoom Zoom
Johnnie, 03/02/2004
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought my protege with the year end incentives. Could'nt resist the Zero percent financing. Drove the Civic, Focus, Corolla...but they were not as fun to drive. The Mazda doesn't get as good of gas mileage... but it's way fun to drive.
Excellent Choice
p_a_y68, 09/06/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Look at scion xA, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra and Suzuki Aerio, Protege beats or at least on par with these competitor. Corolla needs 2 grand more if similarly equipped; Nissan's Sentra is good, but lack of selection when the time we want to buy and the trunk space is limited; xA is a decent car but have the same issue for the trunk as Sentra. Protege LX has a list of standard equipment that no other car here can beat. Also ABS/Side Air Bag package is reasonablly priced.
Good Car
Kurt, 07/15/2009
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my 5 speed for 5 years and absolutely love it. Pros: Decent gas mileage, (not as good as a Corola, but more fun to drive) Fun to drive, responsive handling, good road feel comfortable seat. Good shifter. Very reliable, (just brakes and tires are the only parts replaced. Con. Noisy to ride in.
It really is the fun to drive car....
ZoomZoom02072, 02/04/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This Car is really the fun to drive car. This is the first car that I bought, I had been driving a 1991 Ford with 136,000 miles. I bought a pre- owned Mazda Protege that had 8601 miles on it. Its a 2000. It really Zoom like the Mazda ads say.... I know have a 2000 ES with all the features I wanted. When first looking for cars, I want a Civic badly! I couldn't afford a Civic with a Moonroof, CD player and keyless entry wiht low milage. I came across this WONDERFUL car in my range and I LOVE IT!
Not a lot of buck, but a lot of bang
brb588, 03/13/2004
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I totalled my previous car ('02 Chevy Tracker) and was looking for a gently used car/SUV. I originally wanted a Honda CR-V, but it was way out of my price range. Thank God I looked at the '03 Protegé. It had about 11K miles, and I test drove it along side a brand new one, and they both drove excellently. The thick steering wheel and peppy engine were immediately noticable. Everything was nicely laid out, the seats were comfortable, and the car was rather attractive for its low price. I have had it for a month, and I simply love it. Forget a Civic, get a Protegé!
Mazda comes with a few surprises
mediterrenean, 07/18/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Good deal at its price. Acceleration is ok but the inside ergonomics is one of the best I have seen across compact cars. The exterior paint is so thin that it chips away surprisingly fast. If your bumber touches another surface, get ready to see black streaks on it. Both driver and passanger door rubber seals came off and ripped apart after a year. May be it is because of how weather in CA. However, that is totally unacceptable. The dealer agreed to fix it under warranty, luckily. Make sure you show them exactly what is needed, because they do not check the car on your behalf and offer service.
2003 Mazda Protege
Buzz Wichmann, 03/01/2009
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a fun car to drive .. not as fuel efficient as my 96 Protege was but the better looks on the 2003 model negates the lower mpg rating for me. Still 34 highway/24 city not bad .. roomy comfortable car despite being so small with good sound system - highly manuverable as well with tight steering
What's a Protedge?
Charlie C., 09/04/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had never thought about a Mazda Protedge. It is without a doubt the best car and most comfortalbe I have ever driven. I am 6'2" but I can strectch my left leg all the way out I the drivers seat. Who are these people? The fuel economy is great. The ride is very smooth, the stereo is killer. The only drawback I have found is it is a little sluggish on acceleration. Othere than that it is a great car.! Thank you! Thank you, thank you!! Job well done!!! Please, please tell Mazda thank you!
Happy to zoom
English Guy, 11/12/2002
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I drove the spec v, the corolla s, the matrix, the vibe gt, the mini, the wrx, and many other cars. Why didn't someone just tell me about the Protege and save me the trouble? Yeah, the WRX is awesome, but it's about six grand more. The MINI is fun, but who can you share the fun with? Your smallest friends? Great car!
for the kids most for the money
matt , 12/09/2004
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the car was bought as a 1st. The noise level at any speed is very high unless the road is newly paved. the cup holders are very poor and it you charge your phone do not plan to use them for holding a drink. different tires (kumho 711) are a little help. There is nothing else wrong with this car. Great for the price. Unless you what to spend more money for the pleasure of what you want this car is just efficent.
ES Rocks
Smoke286, 06/11/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is sweet, so much fun to drive
Auto
yuytu, 10/05/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
good car because i like how it drives and what it has, also a great car to drive very great
My experience
vhdlwhiz, 12/31/2007
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car because of my previous experience with the protege. I owned one 1997 DX model from 1997. It proved to be a very reliable car and fun to drive. It lacked a bit of power but the mileage was about 36 miles to the gallon on average, not just highway. The 2003 was loaded compared to the stripped 2007 model. The larger more powerfull engine would make the car even better. Turns out that going to the automatic transmission cost me some of that power. The driving on the new model was better because of the cornering. The larger low profile wheels made the drive much better. The mileage stunk. It dropped to 27 miles to the gallon. I have liked the vehicle.
Nice Car!!!
Frei, 10/12/2003
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought this car today and I'm already in love with it. I'm 19 and it's my first new car. I'm so happy I chose this car over the cavalier I was looking into. The exterior is really sleek and the interior is BEAUTIFUL and comfy. My last car was an oldsmobile, so I'm used to a very smooth ride and for an economy car this one rides decent. I'm also used to a V6 and this car surprised me, it's got pep for it's size! I recommend!
ZOOM ZOOM ZOOOM
ROCHELLE, 12/26/2002
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I HAVE ONE THAT I WILL NEVER PART FROM!
one of the best in its class
g man, 03/31/2004
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i have been pleasantly surprised by the overall quality of this vehicle it is well built and stylish for a car in this class .i read reviews on all car in this class and decided on the mazda after test drives of all vehicles and i am not disapointed. the car handles like a dream the best bar none in this class. do your self a favor and take one out for a spin.i heard alot about road and wind noise being a problem i do not hear it just as quiet as most cars in this class.
Zoom-Zoom Protege
Cars4me89, 09/13/2002
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great value, except it needs a bigger engine and it really need a leather seating option(or vinyl).
my pretty car
emily, 07/16/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i have had this car for a year and have never had any problems withit. it is very reliable, fun to drive and built well. i also like the features that came with it, like the alloy wheels and the tires.
ZOOM ZOOM = FUN FUN!
mkgyre, 10/31/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my 2003 ES for a month now, do not buy anything until you drive a protege'! I am 6'3 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!
fun and functional
alan4491, 12/27/2002
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
looked at other cars in its class (civic, corolla, lancer), but this was the best value w/ options i got (auto, abs w/ side airbags) . . . cool alloys and dual front airbags are std. on LX. great for commuting to work and large enough for my growing family (4 so far).
protege es
toddla, 11/08/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After owning this car for 3 months, I can say I fall into the majority of owners posted here.I paid 14200 for an ES, 6cd/moonroof including rebate. The car is fun to drive, low on power, but I get 30mpg weekly driving steady 50/55 mph to and from work. Hello Mazda, build the protegespeed for the masses. Hands down styling beats Honda/Toyota etc.
Great reliable car
klcaz1963, 12/02/2003
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I would definitely recommend this vehicle. I purchased the 5 speed manual transmission and it is fun to drive. It is a comfortable car with everything within reach. This car has a huge trunk w/ a great split seat feature. I appreciate the "anchor" system for my son's car seat. I feel safe and secure while driving; it handles very well on the road. Only wish that it was not so loud inside.
THE budget sedan for sports car lovers
Mike in St Louis, 01/04/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife wanted a "small" car to replace her 97 Civic EX. With that in mind, we found this to be the best car available. I love the way the Protege handles. It's not as fun as my Miata, but much more fun than any of the above mentioned cars. More power would be welcome, but I'm willing to trade off some power for the excellent handling. While I would prefer to have the 170HP Mazdaspeed model, it was going to cost close to $6000 more (dealer markups) & we couldn't have got the 0% interest loan. Bottom line....if you prefer sports cars but need a sedan, and if your budget is under $20,000, get this car. You won't regret it.
Some flaws after a few miles
Cheaprick29, 08/11/2008
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car about a year & 1/2 ago. Paid $8k w 55k and now has 82k. The A/C doesn't work on 2 or 3 setting. The transmission makes a 'growling' or humming noise and continues to get worse the more I drive it. The trunk leaks due to a faulty trunk seal; My car smells like mildew all the time because water gets under the carpets. Had to replace the drive belts around 60k due to squeaking. Hit curb and cost $3800 to fix; not the best car to get into an accident in due to thin sheet metal. Other than that, the car is a great car. I switched out the stock head unit for a Pioneer; the CD player didn't work properly. I like the aux connection on my new head unit.
Will not be shopping for another Protege
jenna, 10/12/2008
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A few days ago, my Protege was completely totaled by another driver in a very minor accident. So, its durability is questionable. Within the first year of owning it, I had a reoccurring problem with moisture on the inside of the car. Whenever it would rain, wells in the trunk would fill with water with no drainage route. Windshield took forever to defrost/fog. In the winter ice would form on the inside of the windshield -not a fabulous prerequisite to my morning commute. The weather stripping began to peel from the passenger door, and the door handle became loose one winter. Also, the car would rattle whenever stopped in traffic.
Mazda Protege is the class leader.
Aaron Simler, 07/23/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are admirable economy cars and best sellers, they are pretty much blah, bland comfortable appliances that get you from point A to point B. That's fine and all, but I want to have some fun too, and Mazda's world class Protege delivers both. This is a fine Japanese built sports sedan, economical and reliable. Very comfortable transport, but it also has this split personality thing going for it. This thing has the soul of the Mazda Miata in it.
Never go American again!
newMazdalover, 07/29/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Went from a 97 Pontiac Sunfire GT to this car (LX model), it's the best move I ever made! The car handles extremely well and turns with no effort. The Pontiac's interior cracked and jittered from day one (bought it new) especially on rougher roads,fit and finish on Protege is better than friend's BMW. Drove Corolla, Civic and Cavalier; no comparison! Corolla & Civic are too expensive and need I say what I thought about the Cavalier? Buy American? When we design them better, I will. Protege is inexpensive and drives extremely well for an economy car. love the 5 speed, it's like buttah! Toyota and Honda, BEWARE!
Love the 4-speed overdrive
quksylver, 12/03/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is perfect for driving around town and a short commute. The auto. transmission is comfortable and the 4-speed overdrive gives it a little kick, especially around corners and on the highways getting around those trucks. Gas mileage is pretty good and all in all, I love my little Mazda.
Just Luv it
rpbrick, 01/20/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had the car for about 3-wks now and already have 1300 miles on it. Build quality is top notch w/no rattles or loose things to complain about. Engine is quit willing and quiet also. I got this car w/6-cd package and moonroof and just love the sound & sky. Trans is nice and smooth (5-spd) and ride is also great (firm, yet well controlled). Many compliments from my carpool buddies. Would highly recommend!
I love my car
Panda723, 08/02/2003
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Out of a honda civic and a ford mustang, this has been the best car yet. I have had very few problems with the car, and the warranty is awesome.
great car
jeff h., 01/28/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
very nice car would recommend to anyone
Love it!!!
Carin, 09/30/2002
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love this car. You definitely get more bang for your buck. The stereo rocks, the moon roof is romantic and the sport package with the rear spoiler and a sporty clutchless stick puts any girl in a class with the boys.
Pleasantly surprised
Puzman, 08/04/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Downsized from an MPV, which I didn't really like. Protege is VERY fun to drive for the $. Power is better than expected, given the reviews. I never feel that it is underpowered, and what car couldn't use more HP? Handling, braking, and steering are phenomenal (though the ride is a bit stiff at times). The Laser Blue Mica color is stunning. Only complaints are minor- needs tinted sunroof and more sound insulation
The 2003 Mazda Protege is wonderful
Steve Ragan, 01/22/2006
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The '03 Protege DX is beautifully designed inside and out. There is plenty of space inside for CD's and other things you need within arms reach. Both doors have ample side pockets for ice scrapers, etc. Driving it is pure joy. I have a manual, and there is plenty of get up and go on the highway as well in town. The ride is smooth and quiet. It is very spacious inside.There is plenty of trunk space. It has much more room than a Sentra and other cars that fall into this sedan category. And, it is less expensive than other sedans in this category. I have had it since new, and have not had one problem.The gas mileage is very good.
Best car out there
Andy B, 02/02/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After looking at and test driving Hondas, Toyotas, and Saturns, I would have been stupid not to get my Protege. Not only does it handle very well, it's comfortable, can move like any 6 cylinder in its class (mine is only 4), and has a great factory installed audio system. Its design is sleek both inside and out. I average 35-40 miles to the gallon.
Great car!
TRENT, 01/25/2006
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Test drove other vehicles before i purchased the Protege. Civic, Neon, Corolla, Focus. Was hooked when i drove the Protege. Hugged the road and had plenty of pep. Great on long trips, will drive all day and all night
z-mazda
R. J. Zavodny, 08/17/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Beyond my expactations. Fabulous
Sad To See Go...
tanner, 07/27/2009
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i had a 03 protege dx for about 5 years...would still have it but someone rear ended me and totaled it. pro's- good gas mileage..great head on look...reliable con's- poor seal on windows lets water it...not alot to it so highway and windy driving can create some excitement...lots of whistling and humming noises come from the engine at around 60k miles.... put around 50k on this...not major repairs...replaced brake pads once...tires once...changed the oil...never stranded or failed on me...some minor issues but a solid car for the category.
This is one pimp car
SupaFunkyKid, 10/22/2002
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Ford, and Chevy can't touch this car. The perfect definition of what a small sedan should be.
Excellent car for the money
DMW003, 08/17/2003
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Went from a ford escort to the protege lx. Car has good pickup on the highway. Great mileage and the 6 cd changer and sunroof makes it fun to drive, Since I commute everyday good car to drive.
I Love My Mazda
jesse Zamora , 08/17/2003
2003 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Mazda is a great car to have and drive i have had 2 mazda protege's and would tell anyone that they are easy to take car of and all around a very nice car
A sport car in sheep clothing
MoreZoom, 10/31/2002
2003 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've test-driven Toyota Matrix base, 2002 Honda Civic LX and Mazda LX (all auto as gf wanted) before my final purchase of this Protege LX. Base Matrix was $16,000 plus, Civic LX was $15,000 plus, Mazda LX was $14,880 b/f tax to me with alloy wheels. Man, price was the prime deciding factor at first. Then, after test drives, I found that the Matrix's 130 horses was not enough to move the 2800-plus lbs of the auto, Honda - Na! No torgue! Protege won with 135 torgue and 130 hp for its 2700 lbs for the auto. Man, the road-holding is great! Fun-to-drive little car!
Great little car
Missy21, 08/17/2003
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car, comfortable and affordable too. I would definitely reccommend this vechile.
top of the line ES
Unitenyc, 04/21/2004
2003 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Black Mazda Protege ES in December 2003. the retail price was $18,050, I got a $2,500 rebate and hagggled hard. I got it for 13,000 before taxes. I think that is remarkable. It came with every option except sunroof and anti-lock brakes, but the 4 wheel disc brakes have massive stopping power. It has 16" aluminum alloy wheels and Dunlop tires! Halogen headlights! All around a great car and I feel I got alot of car for the money. Much cheaper than honda civic and toyota corolla. But they can't compare to this car. Mazda should have never stopped making this car. I would ONLY purchase the ES. It is a finely made, fun to drive, easy to own auto.