A Market Niche

I bought my new 1996 Protege in 1996. At the time, it seemed difficult to find a low cost car that was not the size of a Tercel and that was not bottom of the barrel on comfort. The Protege fit the bill. Cruise control, power windows and locks, a great stereo system, and even intermittent wipers came standard on this $12,500 buy.

I have been pleased with the car; the only trip to the shop I have had was after an accident. Its gas mileage is good, and it has enough power to feel safe on freeways. My only complaint involve the cup holders which are placed so that hot cups of coffee are precariously close to radio/tape controls. One of these cups spilled INTO the controls and now I cannot change bass or treble or speaker, and I cannot use the tape player at all. Major design snafu.

I would absolutely not hesitate to buy this car, new or used. Interior comfort is surprising for a car this small.