1995 Mazda Protege Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The Mazda Protege received a complete redesign for 1995. Among the upgrades were a longer wheelbase and longer overall length (by 4 inches...
The Mazda Protege received a complete redesign for 1995. Among the upgrades were a longer wheelbase and longer overall length (by 4 inches and 3 inches, respectively). Although the car's design was freshened, it was still distinctively a Protege, with sleek styling that complemented the car's aggressive nature.
In addition, a new upscale ES trim package debuted for 1995. It joined the Protege's existing DX and LX models.
Power for the DX and LX versions of the Protege was provided by a new 1.5-liter, double-overhead-cam inline four-cylinder engine that produced 92 horsepower. The high-end ES trim package received a 1.8-liter, double-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine that produced 122 horsepower, which was the same engine dropped into the 1995 Mazda Miata. A five-speed manual transmission was standard for all models, while a four-speed automatic was optional.
The DX was equipped with such features as power brakes, power steering, 13-inch wheels, a tilt steering wheel, and a rear window defroster. In addition, dual airbags were added as standard equipment for all Protege models for 1995.
The LX added power windows, power door locks, power exterior mirrors, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo system, while the upscale ES added air-conditioning, alloy wheels, and four-wheel antilock brakes.
Drivers had a lot of positive comments for the Protege, and in particular noted that they liked the Protege's aggressive performance, responsive handling, and interior comfort, as well as its reliability and affordability. Required repairs and maintenance were generally routine, drivers noted. Very few drivers noted having excessive repair problems with the car. Drivers had very few negative comments about this car.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 1995 Mazda Protege generally appreciate its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfort for daily driving. Many drivers praised its excellent gas mileage and dependability, often noting it as a good choice for those seeking a reliable and economical vehicle. On the downside, some found it slow at acceleration and mentioned occasional issues with parts availability and costs, especially in certain areas."
I bought this car new, and I still own it. It now has 171,ooo miles on it and the only problem we've had is with the a/c compressor which I've had to replace twice. It gets 40+ mpg on the highway and is very comfortable to travel in. It's still an econobox and not the most exciting car in the world to drive, but it's super dependable and really, really cheap to own and operate. I wish Mazda still built it, because I'd buy another one in a heartbeat.
April 4, 2009Handled well. Good first car. Had small rust spots from living in Wi. It was just a little beater car. Did normal maintenance i.e oil changes. Not a sports car or anything, but fun to drive being a little 4 popper. Amazing gas mileage.
August 4, 2009I really like the car, it's great on gas, small and easy to drive and maneuver. Great for a daily driver to and from work. The things I don't like about it, slow at takeoff and parts are pretty expensive where I live, other than that, it's a great car, I've owned mine for 5 years and wouldn't trade it for anything.
November 17, 2012What owners say
I bought this car new, and I still own it. It now has 171,ooo miles on it and the only problem we've had is with the a/c compressor which I've had to replace twice. It gets 40+ mpg on the highway and is very comfortable to travel in. It's still an econobox and not the most exciting car in the world to drive, but it's super dependable and really, really cheap to own and operate. I wish Mazda still built it, because I'd buy another one in a heartbeat.
April 4, 2009Handled well. Good first car. Had small rust spots from living in Wi. It was just a little beater car. Did normal maintenance i.e oil changes. Not a sports car or anything, but fun to drive being a little 4 popper. Amazing gas mileage.
August 4, 2009I really like the car, it's great on gas, small and easy to drive and maneuver. Great for a daily driver to and from work. The things I don't like about it, slow at takeoff and parts are pretty expensive where I live, other than that, it's a great car, I've owned mine for 5 years and wouldn't trade it for anything.
November 17, 2012We bought this car used in 2000, it had 83000 miles on it then. it now has 120000 and still running great! we've done only a couple major repairs and normal maintainence. great gas mileage being a 5 speed. very dependable over all.
October 2, 2009
