The station wagon Mazda Protege 1998 - 2004 year modification 2.0 AT (165 hp)

Mazda Protege: A Reliable and Practical Station Wagon

The Mazda Protege, particularly the 2.0 AT (165 hp) station wagon variant, is a versatile and dependable vehicle that combines practicality with performance. Produced between 1998 and 2004, this Japanese-made car falls under the C-class category, making it an excellent choice for families and individuals seeking a reliable daily driver. With its 5-door station wagon body type, the Protege offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for both urban commutes and long road trips.

Performance and Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the Mazda Protege is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 petrol engine, delivering a robust 165 horsepower at 6800 rpm and a maximum torque of 178 N*m at 5000 rpm. The engine features a distributed injection system and a compression ratio of 9.7, ensuring efficient fuel combustion and smooth performance. With a 4-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, the Protege offers a balanced driving experience, suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The car's fuel efficiency is further enhanced by its 50-liter fuel tank capacity, making it a cost-effective option for long-distance travel.

Design and Dimensions

The Mazda Protege station wagon boasts a compact yet spacious design, with overall dimensions of 4200 mm in length, 1695 mm in width, and 1420 mm in height. The 2610 mm wheelbase ensures stability and comfort, while the 140 mm ground clearance provides adequate clearance for most road conditions. The car's front and rear track widths are both 1470 mm, contributing to its balanced handling and maneuverability. The independent front suspension and ventilated front disc brakes further enhance the car's ride quality and safety, ensuring a smooth and controlled driving experience.

Interior and Practicality

Inside, the Mazda Protege offers a functional and comfortable interior, designed to accommodate up to five passengers with ease. The station wagon body type provides generous cargo space, making it an excellent choice for families or individuals who require extra storage capacity. The car's ergonomic design and user-friendly controls ensure a pleasant driving experience, while the central locking system adds an extra layer of security. The Protege's interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering a range of features that enhance comfort and convenience for both the driver and passengers.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: The Mazda Protege station wagon offers a reliable and efficient 2.0-liter petrol engine, providing a good balance of power and fuel economy. Its spacious interior and generous cargo capacity make it a practical choice for families. The car's compact dimensions and balanced handling ensure easy maneuverability in urban environments, while the independent front suspension and ventilated disc brakes contribute to a smooth and safe ride.
• Cons: The 4-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, may feel outdated compared to more modern vehicles with advanced transmission systems. The rear drum brakes, although adequate, may not offer the same level of performance as rear disc brakes found in some competitors. Additionally, the car's design, while functional, may lack the modern aesthetic appeal of newer models.

Conclusion

The Mazda Protege 2.0 AT station wagon is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, practical, and efficient vehicle. Its combination of a robust engine, spacious interior, and balanced handling makes it a versatile option for a wide range of driving needs. While it may lack some of the advanced features and modern design elements of newer models, the Protege's proven reliability and practicality make it a worthwhile consideration for anyone in the market for a dependable used car.