When it comes to the 2002 Mazda Protege 5, one of the most notable aspects of its design is the way the steering responds to input. While some may find the low-effort steering to have an over-assisted, rubber-band feel at modest lock under light loads, the rack and column seem to transmit every detail to your fingertips when you're driving precisely through a curve.

One of the biggest advantages of the Protege 5's interior is its ability to quickly respond to steering inputs. Despite its 2,800-pound curb weight, the car feels much lighter and more agile than many other compact hatches on the market. This is likely due in part to the car's design, which was engineered back in the mid-nineties.

I purchased my Protege5 in November of 2003, at a great deal ($13,400 paid, original MSRP $18,900) because the new Mazda3 was just about to hit the market. At the time, the P5 was already nearing the end of its production run, but I knew that it still had plenty to offer.

Overall, the 2002 Mazda Protege 5 interior is a testament to the car's enduring relevance and appeal. Its responsive steering, agile handling, and overall driving experience make it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a compact hatchback with a lot of character.

2002 mazda protege 5 interior