2003 Mazda Protege5 in Oak Ridge, TN - $0

"The feeling is familiar. The car isn't," goes the product brochure for the new Mazda Protege5 wagon. Taking a page from corporate parent Ford's "mass customization" notebook, Mazda is launching a series of fun-to-drive vehicles from its 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.

Built by Mazda in Hiroshima, Japan, the new Mazda is available only as a five-door wagon in one trim level. The Protege5 continues its underlying themes of European styling appointments, while incorporating the automaker's "Triple H" body construction for superior side impact and offset crash protection.

The wagon 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. While a smooth-shifting five-speed manual gearbox is standard, drivers may opt for a four-speed, electronically controlled automatic with overdrive and lockup torque converter for $800.

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 traditional 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. Substantial P195/50R16 tires work with chassis and suspension components to keep the Protege5 firmly under control.

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 makes displays easy to read -- day or night.

A novel manually adjustable drivers seat makes all drivers comfortable. There are plenty of nooks and crannies for storage throughout the interior. The rear seating area features 60/40 split foldown seat backs that increase the utility of the wagon's 20 cubic foot cargo area. 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 for the manual to 25 city/30 highway for the automatic 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 Protege5 wagon starts at $16,335. Destination charge adds $480 (Alaska, $680). Dealers report good supplies of the wagon. There are no rebates.

#####