![]() The more significant gain is in the realm of torque, 135 pound-feet vs. The engine-speed-sensitive variable-assist power rack system has stiffer shaft mounts, a stiffer steering torsion bar, and a new support yoke, and Mazda claims that system friction has also been reduced.Īnd even though we found the acceleration satisfactory - 8.9 seconds to 60 - and the 1840cc engine "songful," Mazda bolted in an entirely different powerplant as part of this limited makeover. We liked the precision of the steering, but that, too, came in for revision. We had no complaints in the realm of noise, vibration, and harshness - "no rattles and buzzes, no quivers and thrums" - but Mazda has installed yards of sound-damping material on the floorpan, underhood, and behind the fire wall, and a damper has been added to the front engine mount that inhibits torque motions related to throttle response. We praised the structure of that 2000 Protegé ES - "as solid as the vault at Wells Fargo" - but this 2001 update entails extensive suspension pickup-point reinforcements and heavier suspension subframing. Nevertheless, here's Mazda, fixing something that didn't seem to be broken. On highways bigger vehicles can make me feel vulnerable because of how small and low the vehicle is.It's been less than a year since the ES version of the Protegé raced to the head of the transportation appliance class here at C/D by dusting a dozen rivals in a definitive small-sedan shootout (" Little Cars 6.1," June 2000). The paint is not designed to handle strong heat and fades or peels. The glass seals on the dash board windows have weak seals and I do not know if that is inherent or a defect but I have had to have them resealed. The low profile tires are more expensive and harder to find than regular tires. The car itself is very low to the ground and can be difficult to get in and out of. I can have full view of the sky, no view, open air or partial. I like the sunroof versatility of closed, vented, moonroof, or open. It appears solid to those looking into the hatchback but is actually light weight and easy to remove. The hatchback storage space has a excellent cover to conceal items. There is enough storage space for my needs. I'm hoping I can get another few years out of it (and tens of thousands of miles more) before I have to get it replaced. I would definitely recommend this vehicle to someone who doesn't want to spend too much money on a used car but needs a comfortable vehicle that won't spend too much time in the shop. Steering is smooth and efficient as well, and the spare tire that the trunk is equipped with has been a lifesaver as well. I've only had to replace the windshield once since I've had it, and it can easily go thousands of miles without requiring an oil change. I got it when it had about 40,000 miles on it, and it's been a great investment. The seats are comfortable, which is perfect for the long drives I frequently have to make for my job. The engine runs smoothly, and I haven't had to make any major repairs to it. I had this vehicle since I was a college student and even now, with more than 110,000 miles on its odometer, I feel safe driving it all over the country. I've found the Mazda Protege5 to be a reliable vehicle without too many issues. Just keep the oil changed, tires rotated, and air filter clean and it was unstoppable. That last bit shook the daylights out of it twice a day for 6 months, never had a problem. I can't say enough about how much this little car handled everything I threw at it, from heavy downpours in the South (I mean, it was in Louisiana for Hurricane Katrina, not in New Orleans, but still), to ice and snow in the New Mexico high desert, to a 2 mile long corrugated dirt/mud rode that was daily driven for 6 months. You can put a 50 inch TV in there, no problem. And I say little, but really, inside this thing can fit almost anything you need to carry short of construction supplies. High speed switchbacks and tight turns are where this little car shines. It gripped tenaciously, like it was a slot car. car will suffer that, and somehow the Protege5 almost didn't have it. Extreme limits bring understeer, but any fwd. The steering feels perfect, and at the limit you can feel it gradually start to break away. There's nothing that isn't perfectly placed for the driver, the gear shift and pedals are naturally positioned, the seats were comfortable for my rather large frame. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |