2003 Mazda Protege in Rockingham, NC - $0

Mazda engineers were not content with the sporty looks and performance of the stock Protege sedan. The result of additional tinkering is the Protege MP3 sedan. Designed to be a low volume special edition of the popular Mazda subcompact, it will never be mistaken for the regular version.

Drawing on the highly successful racing experience of Mazda engineers, the MP3 sedan is immediately noticeable by its exterior cues. An aggressive front facia is punctuated by a pair of large fog lights while a serious rear spoiler and P205/45ZR17 tires and alloy wheels complete the transformation from daily driver to race hardened competitor.

Four-wheel disc brakes, specially tuned suspension and more power back up the promise of performance made by the sedan's exterior. Inside, racing-inspired details like a three-spoke steering wheel, leather shift knob and an industry first Kenwood in-dash CD/MP3 sound system complete the sedan.

Following the example from corporate parent Ford's "mass customization" notebook, the MP3 is the second of the fun-to-drive vehicles based on Mazda's sophisticated Protege small car platform. Beginning with the third-generation Protege in 1999, the modern subcompact treated consumers to the magic of a large passenger cabin, showcasing the automaker's OptiSpace development process designed to maximize interior volume.

The MP3 is propelled by the same responsive 2.0L DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine that is standard in the top-of-the-line Protege sedan. A smooth-shifting five-speed manual gearbox is the only gearbox offered.

Defined by Mazda as a sporty car with a social life, the 2.0L engine delivers a balanced response of power and economy on the road. Its sure-footed, spirited handling is possible with the application of a modified independent MacPherson strut front suspension mated to Mazda's patented Twin-Trapezoidal Link rear suspension. Coil springs at all four corners are complemented by front and rear stabilizer bars to improve feel and provide more linear steering response.

Inside the cabin, driver and passengers alike will appreciate the full application of the automaker's OptiSpace development system. An excellent interior layout integrates seats, displays and controls to yield an ergonomic delight for all. White gauges with red nighttime illumination make displays easy to read -- day or night.

A novel manually adjustable driver's seat makes all drivers comfortable. There are plenty of nooks and crannies for storage throughout. The rear seating area features 60/40 split foldown seat backs that increase the utility of the sedan's 13 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The rear seat is equipped with lap and should belts at each position. There is decent leg and hip room for two normal adults.

Ratings & specifications

Engine performance numbers are 130 hp at 6,000 rpm and 135 lb-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. EPA fuel economy ranges from 25 city/31 highway using regular unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are easily accessible but not consistently marked.

Standard safety/security equipment includes dual front airbags, side impact door beams, power door locks with two-stage unlocking, keyless remote with illuminated entry and large clear-lens fog lights.

Optional safety/security equipment includes four-wheel, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution including driver and front passenger side impact airbags ($800) and perimeter alarm with shock sensor ($220).

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2002 Mazda Protege MP3 sedan starts at $18,020. Destination charge adds $480. This is a limited production model, so work with the dealer in order to secure one.

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