I bought this car new and over two years later we still fully enjoy our 4-door, standard transmission, '01 Mazda Protege ESGT sedan.

As my wife and I live on the West Coast of Canada this car was built in Japan we are very happy and impressed with it's durability. Even when you close the door it's solid and so far not one thing has gone wrong or wrattled.

The car's size is perfect for city driving (and parking) and we are more than comfortable going for weekend trips too. (Never have driven it further than 4-5 hours at once though...not by design, we just haven't gotten around to it.)

The car is good on gas. Even with the extra 2.0L engine in the GT model giving it a bit of punch when you need it, but the motor is a bit loud when it's revved up.

Handling is tight, which is great on a road with lots of curves, but it can also be a bit rough when you're going over speed bumps like the ones in my building's parking lot!

Interior is nicely laid out and vision is clear. Only complaint here is the interior heater/AC fan is loud when it's on #2 or higher.
Amount Paid (US$): 17,000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2001
Model and Options: ESGT