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USED 2002

2003 Mazda Protege

LX sedan 2.0-liter 4 (130 hp) (Regular Gasoline) Automatic 4-speed

Retail Value: $3050 ~ $4625

Trade-in Value: $775 ~ $1845

MSRP: $13580 ~ $20480

2003 Mazda Protege

Most Mazdas are affordable, fun to drive, and look good inside and out. Many of its crossovers, SUVs, and sedans have earned Consumer Reports’ recommendations and above-average reliability ratings. Used Mazdas are usually a good option for an affordable pre-owned car. Mazda’s two- and three-row SUVs, identified by CX in the name, are consistently near the top of our ratings. Some Mazdas are available as plug-in hybrids that are capable of useful amounts of electric-only driving range. Most Mazdas achieve solid, but not exceptional fuel economy. Though sports cars are less popular now than decades before, Mazda still sells the MX-5 Miata, one of the best of the few remaining enthusiast cars.

The Protegé remains a solid small-sedan choice. For 2002, Mazda dropped the weak 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine in favor of the smooth, 130-hp 2.0-liter, which is now standard on all models. Handling is fairly nimble and secure, but the ride is stiff and choppy. Interior room is spacious for a small sedan and includes a fairly comfortable rear seat. A four-door hatchback/wagon, called the Protegé5, joined the line. Large fog lights, wide tires, and exaggerated bodywork lend it a sportier appearance. It was discontinued after the 2003 model year, replaced by the Mazda 3.


Car Specifications

Cargo Volume0.0
EPA City MPG25
EPA Combined MPG27
EPA Highway MPG30
Front Head Room2.5
Front Leg Room41.0
Front Shoulder Room53.5
Height56
Length175
Luggage4+0
Max Load850
Max Seating Capacity5
Rear Head Room1.5
Rear Leg Room28.0
Rear Shoulder Room52.0
Weight2715
Wheel Base103
Width67

Fuel Economy Specifications

Annual Fuel Consumption (Gal)460.0
Annual Fuel Cost (Dollar)1500.0
Cruse Range (Miles)375

Test Results

Acceleration 0-60 MPH (secs)10.3
Avoidance Speed (MPH)53.0
Braking from 60 MPH (ft)137
City MPG19
Highway MPG34
Overall MPG26