Just saw this on http://auto.consumerguide.com/auto/new/reviews/full/index.cfm/id/23279.htm
Here's the relevant paragraph:
A redesigned Protege has reportedly been postponed from 2004 to the '05 model year. Renamed Mazda3, it will be an underskin sister of the next-generation Ford Focus and a new entry-level Volvo 40-Series. All share a clean-sheet unibody platform, various chassis components and electronic systems under Ford Motor Company's worldwide "C1" small-car program. Styling, features and performance will be matched to each nameplate's "brand values." Mazda3 apparently bows with carryover Protege powertrains per Ford's current cost-cutting program. A 4-door hatchback may join the wagon and notchback sedan down the road. A Mazda engineer recently put wheelbase at 103.9 inches, two inches longer than Protg's. He also says Mazda3 will look much like the swoopy MX Sportif concept shown at the March 2003 Geneva Auto Salon.
My comments: Bigger, probably heavier, with carryover engines/powertrains. This is disappointing if you were waiting to see if the Mazda 3 would be a big improvement over the Protege. And it looks like it's been delayed to the 2005 model year. Makes me even happier with my MSP!
Here's the relevant paragraph:
A redesigned Protege has reportedly been postponed from 2004 to the '05 model year. Renamed Mazda3, it will be an underskin sister of the next-generation Ford Focus and a new entry-level Volvo 40-Series. All share a clean-sheet unibody platform, various chassis components and electronic systems under Ford Motor Company's worldwide "C1" small-car program. Styling, features and performance will be matched to each nameplate's "brand values." Mazda3 apparently bows with carryover Protege powertrains per Ford's current cost-cutting program. A 4-door hatchback may join the wagon and notchback sedan down the road. A Mazda engineer recently put wheelbase at 103.9 inches, two inches longer than Protg's. He also says Mazda3 will look much like the swoopy MX Sportif concept shown at the March 2003 Geneva Auto Salon.
My comments: Bigger, probably heavier, with carryover engines/powertrains. This is disappointing if you were waiting to see if the Mazda 3 would be a big improvement over the Protege. And it looks like it's been delayed to the 2005 model year. Makes me even happier with my MSP!