Mazda’s Familia small car, popular in the United States from 1971 through 2003, underwent some interesting changes towards the end of its run. One of the highlights during that period was the introduction of the Protegé MP3 in 2001-2002, followed by the Mazdaspeed Protegé in 2003 and the Protegé5 wagon from 2002-2003. A recent discovery in a Denver self-service junkyard revealed one of these Protegé5 wagons, which we will delve into further.
The Familia, known for its Great Little Car (GLC) branding, transitioned to front-wheel-drive in its fourth generation. In the United States, it was rebranded as the 323 in 1986, while its platform was also utilized for the Ford Escort starting in 1991. The Familia sedan underwent a name change to Protegé in 1990, while the 323 name persisted on the hatchback until it was phased out after 1994. Ultimately, the Mazda3 replaced the Protegé as its successor in 2004.
The Protegé5 gained significant praise from reviewers, with some comparing it to a blend of the Miata and Tribute models. Its standout features included a stylish and “way cool” interior design, along with impressive handling capabilities. The Protegé5 was available in six different paint colors, but it seems that many of the review cars were presented in the eye-catching “Vivid Yellow” hue.
Mazda’s marketers specifically targeted young car shoppers who enjoyed activities such as mountain biking and skateboarding. The aim was to appeal to this audience by positioning the Protegé5 as not just a wagon but as “a sporty car with a built-in social life,” as described in the brochure. However, it is worth noting that by that time, many members of this demographic had already shifted their preference towards SUVs rather than wagons.
Under the hood, the Protegé5 boasted a 2.0-liter DOHC straight-four engine, delivering 130 horsepower and 135 pound-feet of torque. While a four-speed automatic transmission was available as an option, wise buyers opted for the base five-speed manual to take full advantage of the high-revving engine.
This particular Protegé5 in the junkyard showcased the original factory 16″ alloy wheels, adding to its overall appeal. Additionally, the discovery of the owner’s manuals inside revealed that the car was originally sold in Omaha.
The Protegé5’s marketing campaign received the “Zoom-Zoom” treatment in TV commercials, emphasizing the car’s fun and dynamic driving experience. Moreover, the striking Vivid Yellow paint further captured attention and added to its distinctiveness.
It is interesting to note that in its homeland, this car was known by a different name – the Familia S-Wagon Sport 20. This showcases how Mazda adapted and localized their branding and model names for different markets.
In conclusion, the Mazda Protegé5 stands out as a unique and sought-after vehicle that seamlessly combines sportiness with practicality. From its standout design to its impressive performance features, this wagon successfully catered to the preferences of young car enthusiasts. While time may have resulted in its presence in a junkyard, its legacy lives on for those who appreciate its charm and distinctive characteristics.