Protege comes in three trim levels with two different engines: DX ($12,765); LX ($13,485); LX 2.0 ($13,885); ES 2.0 ($15,535).LX and DX models come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 103 horsepower. (The 1.6-liter engine meets California's ultra-low-emissions vehicle standards.) A five-speed manual transmission is standard. A 4-speed automatic transmission can be added as an $800 option.
ES and LX-2.0 are powered by a 2.0-liter engine that produces 130 horsepower. ES comes with four-wheel disc brakes, 16-inch alloy wheels with P195/50R16 tires, a black-chrome grille treatment, a rear spoiler, fog lights, white-faced gauges and monochrome interior trim.
We highly recommend the $800 package that combines front side-impact air bags and anti-lock brakes with brake force distribution. ABS helps the driver maintain control of the steering during panic stops; just hold the brake pedal hard to the floor and steer around obstacles. Next Page