1999 Mazda Protege Test Drive

With new, edgier styling and an extensive mechanical rework, Mazda Protege aimed at biting off a bigger chunk of the compact sedan market. The most affordable four door in Mazda’s lineup, the Protege was available in basic DX, upscale LX, and sporty ES trim. Slightly lighter than its predecessor, the 1999 Protege maintained the interior roominess that had long been it’s calling card, while advancing its handling and ride. The basic power plant was a 1.6 liter 106 horsepower DOHC inline four that was unusually smooth and competitive in output with most other base level engines in the class. The favourable option was the available upgrade to a 1.8 liter 122 horsepower inline for in the fun-to-drive ES trim.