Model Info

Contents
What are the chassis designations for the Protegé?
How do I read my VIN?
What engines were available on the Protegé and Mazda3?
Where is my Protegé made?
How do I find out the production number of my MP3/MazdaSpeed Protegé?
How do I find out the production number of my Mazda3 SP23/MazdaSpeed3?
What colors are available for the Protegé and Mazda3?
What  interior colors are available for the Protegé & Mazda3?
The Sunburst Yellow and Vivid Yellow have the same color code, what is different?
What is the model change history on the Protegé?
Is the Protegé sold in other areas of the world under other names?
  What other body styles have been available?

What other North American Mazdas share the same platform (i.e. basic mechanical
  layout) with the Protegé?

Has the Protegé ever been available in North America with four-wheel-drive (4WD)?
What stock wheel and tire combinations have been available on the Protegé?
What's the deal with the "Protegé ES GT"?
What is different about the MazdaSpeed Protegé other than the turbo, suspension, body kit, color, stereo
  system, brakes, drivetrain, exhaust and wheels?

What is a MazdaSpeed Familia?
What is the boost level set to on the MazdaSpeed Protegé?


What are the chassis designations for the Protegé?
    BG refers to the 1st generation Protegé (7th generation Familia) and 323.
    BG3S refers to the 1.3 liter NA SOHC engine Familia/323 hatchback (B3 engine)
    BG3P refers to the 1.3 liter NA SOHC engine Familia/323 sedan (B3 engine)
    BG5S refers to the 1.5 liter NA SOHC & DOHC engine Familia/323 hatchback (B5 engines)
    BG5P refers to the 1.5 liter NA SOHC & DOHC engine Familia/323 sedan (B5 engines)
    BG6S refers to the 1.6 liter NA SOHC & DOHC engine Familia/323 hatchback (B6 engines)
    BG6P refers to the 1.6 liter NA SOHC & DOHC engine Familia/323 sedan (B6 engines)
    BG7P refers to the 1.7 liter NA SOHC diesel engine Familia/323 sedan (PN engine)
    BG8P refers to the 1.8 liter NA DOHC engine Familia/323/Protegé (BP-ZE engine)
    BG8R refers to the 1.8 liter Turbo DOHC engine 4WD Familia GT-X sedan (BP-ZET engine)
    BG8Z refers to the 323 GT-X, GT-R and GT-Ae 4WD 1.8 turbo (BP-ZET engine)
    BHA refers to the 2nd generation Protegé (8th generation Familia).
    BHA3P refers to the 1.3 liter Familia/323 sedan (B3 engine)
    BHA3S refers to the 1.3 liter Familia/Familia Neo/323/323P hatchback (B3 engine)
    BHALP refers to the 1.5 liter Familia/323/Protegé sedan (ZL engines)
    BHALS refers to the 1.5 liter Familia/Familia Neo/323/323P hatchback (ZL engine)
    BHA5P refers to the 1.5 liter Familia/323 sedan (B5 engine)
    BHA5S refers to the 1.5 liter Familia Neo hatchback (B5 engine)
    BHA6R refers to the 1.6 liter Familia 4WD sedan (B6 engine)
    BHA7P refers to the 1.7 liter turbo diesel Familia/323 sedan (4EE1-T engine)
    BHA7R refers to the 1.7 liter turbo deisel Familia 4WD sedan (4EE1-T engine)
    BHA8P refers to the 1.8 liter Familia/323/Protegé sedan (BP-ZE engine)
    BHA8S refers to the 1.8 liter Familia Neo/323 hatchback (BP-ZE engine)
    BJ refers to the 3rd generation Protegé & Protegé 5 (9th generation Familia)
    BJ3P refers to the 1.3 liter Familia/323 (B3 engine)   
    BJ5P refers to the 1.5 liter Familia/323 (ZL engines) and MazdaSpeed Familia (FS-ZE engine)
    BJ5W refers to the 1.5 liter Familia S-Wagon/323F (ZL engines)
    BJ8W refers to the 1.8 liter Familia S-Wagon/323F (FP engine)
    BJEP refers to the 2.0 liter diesel Familia/323 (RF engine)
    BJFP refers to the 2.0 liter Familia/323/Protegé (FS engines)
    BJFW refers to the 2.0 liter Familia S-Wagon/323F/Protegé 5 (FS engines)
    BK refers to the Mazda3 (Axela)
    BK5P refers to the 1.5 liter Mazda3/Axela (ZY engine)
    BKEP refers to the 2.0 liter Mazda3/Axela (LF engines)
    BK3P refers to the 2.3 liter Mazda3/Axela (L3 engine)
    BL refers to the 2nd generation Mazda3 (Axela)
    BL5FP refers to the 1.5 liter FWD Mazda3/Axela sedan (2nd gen)
    BLEAP refers to the 2.0 liter 4WD Mazda3/Axela sedan (2nd gen)
    BLEFP refers to the 2.0 liter FWD Mazda3/Axlea sedan (2nd gen)
    BL3FW refers to the 2.3 liter FWD MazdaSpeed3/MazdaSpeed Axela hatchback (2nd gen)
    BL5FW refers to the 1.5 liter FWD Mazda3/Axela hatchback (2nd gen)
    BL6FJ refers to the 1.6 liter FWD Mazda3/Axela instructional sedan (2nd gen)
    BLEAW refers to the 2.0 liter 4WD Mazda3/Axela hatchback (2nd gen)
    BLEFW refers to the 2.0 liter FWD Mazda3/Axela hatchback (2nd gen)
    BLFFP refers to the SkyActiv-G FWD Mazda3/Axela sedan (2nd gen)
    BLFFW refers to the SkyActiv-G FWD Mazda3/Axela hatchback (2nd gen)


How do I read my VIN?
    Your North American/Brazilian BG/BHA/BJ Protegé's and BK/BL Mazda3's VIN should be as follows:
    xM#xx####x#######

    |||| |||||||
    |||| ||||||Series & Car #
    |||| |||||Plant # (0=Hiroshima, 1=Hofu, M=Mexico)
    |||| ||||Model Year (listing below)
    |||| |||Check digit
    |||| ||Mod/engine type (see below)
    |||| |Mazda3 Body style/2nd digit of Protege body style code
    |||| Protege Body style/Mazda3 Restraint system
    |||Body Code (BG=90-94, BA=95, BB=96, BC=97-98, BJ=99-03, BK=04-09, BL=10-13, BM=14-16, BN=17-18)
    ||Manufacturer sub-code (Japan only: 1=car, 2=truck/van, 3=van, 4=truck  Mexico only: Z)
    |Mazda
    Country Code (J=Japan, 3=Mexico)


    Model years: L=90, M=91, N=92, P=93, R=94, S=95, T=96, V=97, W=98, X=99,
    Y=00, 1=01, 2=02, 3=03, 4=04, 5=05, 6=06, 7=07, 8-08, 9-09, A=80/10, B=81/11, C=82/12, D=83/13, E=84/14, F=85/15,
    G=86/16, H=87/17

    Protege Body style codes (2 digit): 14=Protegé 4 door, 22=4 door, 23=3 door hatchback, 24=5 door hatchback
    BK Mazda3 Restraint system codes: 1=without side & curtain airbags, 2=with curtain airbag,
                                3=with side & curtain airbags

    BK Mazda3 Body style codes: 2=4 door, 4=5door
    BL/BM Mazda3 Restraint system code: 1=with side & curtain airbags, 2=without side & curtain airbags
    BL/BM Mazda3 Body style codes: S,T,U,V,W,X=4 door, H,J,K,L,M,N=5door

    Mod/engine types:
    1st generations: 1=Canadian 1.6 liter SOHC 2WD, 2=1.6 liter SOHC 2WD,
        3=Canadian 1.8 liter SOHC NA 2WD, 4=1.8 liter SOHC NA 2WD,
        5=Canadian 1.8 liter DOHC NA 2WD, 6=1.8 liter DOHC NA 2WD,
        7=Canadian 1.8 liter SOHC NA 4WD, 8=1.8 liter SOHC NA 4WD
    2nd generations: 1=1.5 liter, 2=1.8 liter, 3=1.5 liter w/o airbag, 4=1.8 liter w/o airbag
    3rd generations: 1=1.8 liter, 2=1.6 liter, 3=1.8 liter w/side airbag, 4=1.6 liter 
        w/side airbag, 5=2.0 liter, 6=2.0 liter w/side airbag, 7=MP3/MazdaSpeed, 8=MazdaSpeed (w/side airbag)
    BK Mazda3: F=2.0 liter, G=2.0 liter (PZEV), L=MazdaSpeed, M=MazdaSpeed (LEV II), 3=2.3 liter, 4=2.3 liter (PZEV)
    BL Mazda3: F=2.0 liter, G=2.0 liter (PZEV), 3= MazdaSpeed, 4=MazdaSpeed (LEV II), 5=2.5 liter, 6=2.5 liter (PZEV),
                         7=SkyActiv-G 2.0, 8=SkyActiv-G 2.0 (PZEV)
    BM Mazda3: 3=SkyActiv-G 2.5, 7=SkyActiv-G 2.0

    Series numbers:
     1st generations: 100001-400000: 1990-1991 models
                             400001-900000: 1992-1995 models
     2nd generations: 100001-200000: 1995 models (BA body code)
                               300001-400000: 1996 models (BB body code)
                              100001-300000: 1997-1998 models (BC body code)
                              adjusted series in accordance to JDM BHA chassis #: 100001-200000 (1995 models),
                                                                                                                     200001-300000 (1996 models),
                                                                                                                     300001-600000 (1997-1998 models)
     3rd generations: 100001-400000: 1999-2000 models
                              400001-600000: 2001-2002 models
                              100001-300000: 2002.5-2003.5 models
     BK Mazda3: 100001-400000: 2004-2005 models
                          400001-600000: 2006 models
                          600001-900000: 2007-2008 models
                          100001-300000: 2008.5-2009 models
     BL Mazda3: 100001-400000: 2010-2011 models
                         500001-800000: 2012-2013 models

     On an European/Israeli/Russian BG/BHA/CBA/BJ 323/323F and BK/BL Mazda3's VINs should be as follows:
    xMZxx####x#######
    |||| |||||||
    |||| ||||||Series & Car #
    |||| |||||
Plant # (0=Hiroshima, 1=Hofu, M=Mexico)
    |||| ||||Model Year (04-08 Israel only, 09+ EU + Israel, listing below)
    |||| |||Transmission type (2=5 MT, 3=3 AT, 5=4 AT, 6=6 MT, 7=5 AT, 8=6 AT)
    |||| ||Engine code (see below)
    |||| |Body style (2=4 door, 3=3 door fastback, 4=5 door, 5=3 door hatchback, 1/A/B=no meaning)
    |||| Drivetrain type (1=2WD, 8=4WD) / Emissions Type (1=2WD Euro4, A=2WD Euro5 1600cc diesel,
    ||||                  B=2WD Euro5, 5=Euro5, 6=Euro6)
    |||Body Code (BG=89.5-94, BA=94.5-98, BJ=98.5-03, BK=03.5-09, BL=09-13, BM=13.5-16, BN=16.5-18)
    ||European market
    |Mazda
 
  Country Code (J=Japan, 3=Mexico)

    Israeli model years: 4=04, 5=05, 6=06, 7=07, 8=08, 9=09
    Europe/Israel model years: A=80/10, B=81/11, C=82/12, D=83/13, E=84/14, F=85/15, G=86/16, H=87/17

    European engine codes:
    1st generations: 2=1300cc leaded fuel, 4=1600cc leaded fuel, 7=1800cc leaded fuel,
                            9= 1700cc diesel, B=1300cc carb, C=1300cc, D=1600cc carb,
                            E=1600cc, F=1800cc SOHC, G=1800cc DOHC, H=1800cc DOHC normal power turbo,
                            J=1800cc DOHC high power turbo
    2nd generations: 3=1300cc, 5=1500cc, 7=1700cc diesel, P=1800cc, F=2000cc V6 (5 door only)
    3rd generations: 3=1300cc, F=2000cc diesel, L=1500cc, M=1600cc, P=1800cc, R=2000cc TD, S=2000cc
    Mazda3: 3=1600cc high power diesel (Euro 3), 6=1600cc low power diesel (Euro 4), F=2000cc, J=1300cc,
                  L=2300cc, R=2000cc diesel, Y=1600cc high power diesel (Euro 4), Z=1600cc
    Mazda3 2nd generation: 3=2300cc, A=2200cc high power diesel, C=2200cc low power diesel, F=2000cc,
                                           G=2000cc i-stop, Y=1600cc diesel, Z=1600cc
    Mazda3 3rd generation: 2=2200cc diesel, 5=1500cc low power, 6=2000cc low power, 7=2000cc high power, A=1500cc
                                           high power, L=2500cc, S=1500cc diesel, Z=1600cc

    European series numbers:
     1st generations: 100001-500000: 1989.5-1991 models
                              500001-: 1991.5-1993 models
     2nd generations: 100001-300000 1994-1995 models
                              300001-500000: 1995.5-1996 models
                              500001-: 1996.5-1998 models
     3rd generations: 100001-400000: 1998.5-2000 models
                              400001-: 2001-2002 models
     Mazda3: 100001-900000: 2003.5-2007 models
                   500001-900000: 2008-2009 models
     Mazda3 2nd generation: 100001-400001: 2009.5-2011.7 models
                                          500001-800000: 2011.8-2013 models
     Mazda3 2nd generation: 100001-400001: 2013.5-2016 models
                                          500001+: 2016.5-2018 models

    On an Australian BG/BHA/CBA/BJ 323/Astina and Mazda3, the VIN should be as follows:
   JM0xx####00######
   |||| ||||  |
   |||| ||||  Series & Car # (rolls to 100001 every new generation)
   |||| ||||
   |||| |||Design change code (1=before minor change, 2=minor change 1, 3=minor change 2)
   |||| ||Engine code (see below) / BM/BN Mazda3 Transmission code (6=6 MT, 8=6 AT)
   |||| |BM/BN Mazda3 Engine code (see below) / 2nd digit of BG-BL Body style code
   ||||
Body style (10=4 door sedan and 5 door hatchback, 11=4 door and 5 door fastback) / Body Code
   ||||  (5=Mazda3)
   |||Body Code (BG=89.5-94, BA=94.5-98, BJ=98.5-03, BK=03.5-08, BL=08.5-13, BM=13.5-16, BN=16.5-18)
   ||Australian market
   |Mazda
   Japan

      Australian engine codes:
      1st generations: 6=1600cc, P=1800cc
      2nd generations: 6=1600cc, P=1800cc, F=2000cc V6 (Fastback only)
      3rd generations: M=1600cc, P=1800cc, S=2000cc
      Mazda3: 3=2300cc, 6=1600cc, F=2000cc, R=2000cc diesel, Y=1600cc
      Mazda3 2nd generation: 3=2300cc turbo, 5=1500cc, 7=SkyActiv-G 2.0, C=2200cc diesel, F=2000cc, L=2500cc,
                                              Z=1600cc
      Mazda3 3rd generation: 2=2200cc diesel, 3=2500cc, 7=2000cc high power

      Australian series numbers:
       1st generations: 100001-500000: 1989.5-1991 models
                                500001-: 1991.5-1993 models
       2nd generations: 100001-200000 1994.5-1996 models
                                200001-: 1996.5-1998 models
       3rd generations: 100001-200000: 1998.5-2000 models
                                200001-: 2001-2002 models
       Mazda3: 100001-300000: 2003-2006 models
                     300001-900000: 2006.5-2009.8 models
       Mazda3 2nd generation: 100001-400001: 2009.5-2011.7 models
                                            500001+: 2011.8+ models

    For a BG/BHA/CBA/BJ 323 & Mazda3 in the Gulf Cooperation Council (G.C.C.) countries, the VIN should be as follows:
   JM7xx####x#######
   |||| |||||||
   |||| ||||||Series & Car #
   |||| |||||Plant # (0=Hiroshima, 1=Hofu)

   |||| ||||Model Year (listing below)
   |||| |||Check Digit
   |||| ||Engine code (see below)
   |||| |Body style code
   |||| Restraint code
   |||Body Code
(BA=94.5-98, BJ=98.5-03, BK=03.5-09, BL=08.5-13, BM=13.5-16, BN=16.5-18)
   ||Rest of World LHD
   |Mazda
   Japan


    Model years: K=89, L=90, M=91, N=92, P=93, R=94, S=95, T=96, V=97, W=98, X=99,
    Y=00, 1=01, 2=02, 3=03, 4=04, 5=05, 6=06, 7=07, 8=08, 9=09, A=80/10, B=81/11, C=82/12, D=83/13, E=84/14,
    F=85/15, G=86/16

    Restraint codes: 1=without airbags, 2=with driver's side airbag, 3=with dual airbags,
               4=with dual & side airbags

    Mazda3 2nd & 3rd generation restraint codes: 1=with dual airbags, 2=with dual & side airbags & curtain
                                       airbags

    Body style codes: 2=4 door, 4=5door
    Mazda3 2nd & 3rd generation body style codes: S=4 door, H=5 door

    G.C.C. engine codes:
      2nd generations: 3=1300cc, 6=1600cc
      3rd generations: 3=1300cc, M=1600cc
      Mazda3: A=SkyActiv-G 1.5, 6=1600cc, 7=SkyActiv-G 2.0, F=2000cc, L=SkyActiv-G 2.5, Z=1600cc

    Or for the BG body style:
   BG10#x######
   ||| |||
   ||| ||Series & Car #

   ||| |Design change code (1=before minor change, 2=minor change)
   ||| Engine code (3=1300cc, 6=1600cc, P=1800cc)
   |||

   ||323 Body style (10=3 door, 4 door and 5 door hatchback)
   |Body Code (G=89.5-94)
   Car line code (B=323/Astina/Mazda3 aka "B car")


    For a BG/BHA/CBA/BJ 323/Astina and Mazda3 in the rest of the world ("General Market"), the VIN could be as follows:
   xx#xx####x#######
   |||| |||||||
   |||| ||||||Series & Car #
   |||| |||||Plant # (0=Hiroshima or no meaning if year code or Colombia is 0, 1=Hofu)

   |||| ||||Model year code (listing below, 0=no meaning, Z=no meaning)
   |||| |||Design change code (see below) or Check Digit or Transmission code (see below)
   |||| ||Engine code (see below)
   |||| |Mazda3 Body style/2nd digit of 323 body style code
   |||| 323 Body style/Mazda3 Restraint system
   |||Body Code
(BG=BG series, BA=BHA/CBA series, BB=some Colombia BL series,
   |||          
BH=Ecuador BJ series wagon, BJ=BJ series, BK=BK series, BL=BL series)
   ||Manufacturer sub-code (
C=Colombiana Automotriz if "9F" precedes, E=MARESA if "8L" precedes,
   ||
                       General Market if "JM" precedes [6=RHD, 7=LHD])
   |Manufacturer code (
F=Colombiana Automotriz, L=MARESA, M=Mazda)
   Country code (8=Ecuador, 9=Colombia,
J=Japan)

  Or in non-WMI style:
          
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯| 
   |¯¯¯¯¯¯¯|¯¯¯¯¯¯¯|¯||
   ⓜBx###xⓜ######ⓜ |"MH" before series & car #=Vietnam Motors,
     |||||| |        |"M" before series & car #=Ford Philippines
     |||||| |        Manufacturer identifier mark ⓜ=Mazda (recent years only)
     |||||| Series & Car #
     |||||Design change code (see below) or Check Digit
     ||||Engine code (see below)
     |||Mazda3 Body style/2nd digit of 323 body style code
     ||323 Body style/Mazda3 Restraint system
     |Body Code (G=BG series, A=BHA series, J=BJ series, K=BK series, L=BL series, M=BM series, N=BN
     |           series)
     Car line code (B=323/Astina/Mazda3 aka "B car")

  Or for Colombia non-WMI style, BHA series:
   |¯¯¯¯¯¯¯|¯¯¯¯
   323x#x #######
      ||| |
      ||| Serial #
      ||Transmission code (A=Automatic, M=Manual) or design change code (V=before minor change,
      ||                                                                 B=minor change)
      |Engine code (see below)
      Body code (N=BHA 97-98)

    Model years: K=89, L=90, M=91, N=92, P=93, R=94, S=95, T=96, V=97, W=98, X=99,
    Y=00, 1=01, 2=02, 3=03, 4=04, 5=05, 6=06, 7=07, 8=08, 9=09, A=80/10, B=81/11, C=82/12, D=83/13, E=84/14

    323 Body style codes (2 digit): 10=3 door, 4 door and 5 door hatchback, 11=4 door and 5 door fastback,
                           42=4 door, 52=5 door

    Mazda3 Restraint codes: 1=without airbags, 2=with driver's side airbag, 3=with dual airbags,
                     4=with dual & side airbags & curtain airbags, 5=with dual & side airbags

    Mazda3 Body style codes: 2=4 door, 4=5door
    Mazda3 2nd generation restraint codes: 1=with dual airbags, 2=with dual & side airbags & curtain airbags

    Design change codes: 1=before minor change, 2=minor change 1, 3=minor change 2
    Mazda3 2nd generation transmission codes: 5=4 AT, 7=5 AT

    General Market engine codes:
      1st generations: 3=1300cc, 6=1600cc, 7=1700cc diesel,  P=1800cc
      2nd generations: 3=1300cc, 5=1500cc, 6=1600cc, P=1800cc, F=2000cc V6 (fastback only)
      3rd generations: 3=1300cc, F=2000cc diesel, L=1500cc, M=1600cc, P=1800cc, S=2000cc
      Mazda3: 3=2300cc, 6=1600cc, F=2000cc, R=2000cc diesel, Y=1600cc
      Mazda3 2nd generation: 3=2300cc turbo, 5=1500cc, 6=1600cc, 7=SkyActiv-G 2.0, C=2200cc diesel, F=2000cc,
                                              L=2500cc, Z=1600cc
      Mazda3 3rd generation: 7=SkyActiv-G 2.0, A=SkyActiv-G 1.5, L=SkyActiv-G 2.5, Z=1600cc

    For Japanese market BG/BHA/CBA/BJ Familia and BK/BL Axela, the VIN should be as follows:
   eee-BxEbb-######
   |   ||||  |
   |   ||||  Series & Car #

   |   ||||
   |   |||Body style code
   |   |||

   |   ||Engine code (see below)
   |   |Body Code (G=89/1-94/3, HA=94/3-99/2, BA=93/6-97/5, J=98/4-03/9, K=03/9-08/10, L=08/10-07/13)
   |   Car line code (B=323/Astina/Mazda3 aka "B car", C=Lantis)
   Emissions compliancy code (see below)

   Japanese emissions compliancy codes: E=1978 gasoline standard, GF=1998 gasoline standard,
                                        GH=2000 gasoline standard, LA=2000 gasoline ULEV standard,
                                        TA=2000 gasoline LEV standard, UA=2000 gasoline SULEV std,
                                        ABA=2005 gasoline standard, CBA=2005 gasoline ULEV standard,
                                        DBA=2005 gasoline SULEV standard,
                                        Q=1986 light passenger diesel standard,
                                        X=1990 light passenger diesel standard,
                                        KD=1994 light passenger diesel standard,
                                        KE=1997 light passenger diesel standard

   Familia engine codes: 3=1300cc, 5=1500cc, 6=1600cc, 7=1700cc diesel, 8=1800cc, E=2000cc diesel,
                          F=2000cc, L=Z5 1500cc
   Lantis engine codes: 8=1800cc, E=2000cc V6
   Axela engine codes: 3=2300cc, 5=1500cc, 6=1600cc, E=2000cc, F=SkyActiv-G 2.0

   BG/BHA Familia body style codes: P=4 door sedan 2WD, R=4 door sedan 4WD, S=3 door hatchback 2WD,
                             Z=3 door hatchback 4WD
   BJ Familia body style codes: P=Sedan, W=Wagon
   CBA Lantis body style code: P=4 door and 5 door fastback
   BK Axela body style code: P=Passenger car
   BL Axela body style codes: AP=Sedan 4WD, AW=Wagon 4WD, FJ=Instructional sedan 2WD, FP=Sedan 2WD,
                              FW=Wagon 2WD

   Series numbers:
     BG Familia: 100001-300000 Before minor change (1989/1 to 1990/11)
                 300001-600000 After minor change (1990/12 to 1994/3)
     BHA Familia: 100001-200000 Before minor change (1994/3 to 1995/6)
                  200001-300000 Mid-cycle minor change (1995/7 to 1996/9)
                  300001-400000 After minor change (1996/8 to 1999/2)
     BJ Familia: 100001-300000 Before minor change (1998/4 to 2000/9)
                 400001-600000 After minor change (2000/9 to 2003/9)
     CBA Lantis: 100001-200000 Before minor change (1993/6 to 1995/6)
                 200001-300000 Mid-cycle minor change (1995/6 to 1996/6)
                 300001-400000 After minor change (1996/6 to 1997/5)
     BK Axela: 100001-299999 Before minor change (2003/9 to 2006/4)
               300001-399999 After minor change (2006/5 to 2008/10)
     BL Axela: 100001-199999 Before minor change (2008/10 to 2011/5)
               200001- After minor change (2011/6 on)

    For a BJ Mazda 323 & Haima Happin/Family and Mazda3 locally produced in China, the VIN should be as follows:
   Lxx#xx###xx######
   ||||||||||||
   |||||||||||Series & Car #
   ||||||||||Plant # (H=Haikou, N=Nanjing)

   |||||||||Model Year (listing below)
   ||||||||Check Digit
   |||||||CFMA engine code (B=1600cc, C=2000cc, L=1500cc)
   ||||||Haima Body code (AF=Haima3, JF=323/Happin, KF=Family, H0=Premacy/Freema) /
   |||||| CFMA transmission code (A=AT, M=MT)
   |||||Haima Engine code (H=1800cc, K=1600cc)/ CFMA body style code (A=5 door, F=4 door)
   ||||CFMA/CMA brand code (M=Mazda, C=no meaning, D=Mazda)
   |||Haima Body style code (6=5 door hatchback, 7=4 door sedan) /
   ||| CFMA/CMA restraint code (B=driver's airbag, F=dual front airbags, H=dual front & side airbags)

   ||Manufacturer sub-code (1=Haima, S=CFMA, R=CMA)
   |Manufacturer code (H=Haima, V=CFMA/CMA)
   China


    Model years:  X=99, Y=00, 1=01, 2=02, 3=03, 4=04, 5=05, 6=06, 7=07, 8=08, 9=09,
                           A=80/10, B=81/11, C=82/12, D=83/13, E=84/14, F=85/15, G=86/16



What engines were available on the Protegé and Mazda3?
The following engines were available along with the country/regions (generalized information, please refer to engine section for details):
Displacement
Region/Country
Engine Code
1st gen
(BG)
2nd gen
(BHA)
3rd gen
(BJ)
MZ3 (BK)
MZ3 (BL)
MZ3
(BM)
EFI
(EGI)
Valves
S-VT
DOHC
Turbo
Diesel
1.3 liter Japan, Europe, GCC, General
B3-M
X






16




1.3 liter Japan
B3-MI
X





X
16




1.3 liter Europe
B3-E
X





X
8




1.3 liter Japan, Europe, GCC, General
B3-ME
X
X
X



X
16




1.3 liter
Europe
ZJ-VE



X


X
16
X
X


1.3 liter
China
8A-FE
X





X
16

X


1.5 liter Japan
B5-M
X






16




1.5 liter
Japan
B5-MI
X





X
16




1.5 liter Japan
B5-DE
X





X
16

X


1.5 liter
Japan
B5-ZE

X




X
16

X


1.5 liter
US, Canada, Japan, Europe, Australia, General
Z5-DE

X




X
16

X


1.5 liter
Japan
Z5-DEL

X




X
16

X


1.5 liter
Japan, Europe
ZL-DE


X



X
16

X


1.5 liter
Japan
ZL-VE


X



X
16
X
X


1.5 liter
Japan
ZY-VE



X
X

X
16
X
X


1.5 liter
Japan, Europe, General
P5-VPS





X
DISI
i-stop
16
Dual
X


1.6 liter
US, Canada, Europe
B6-E
X





X
8




1.6 liter
Australia, Europe, GCC, General
B6-M
X






16




1.6 liter
US, Europe
B6-ME
X





X
16




1.6 liter
Japan
B6-DE

X




X
16

X


1.6 liter
Japan
B6-ZE
X





X
16

X


1.6 liter
Europe
Y6



X
X

X
16


X
X
1.6 liter
Japan, Europe, GCC, General, China
ZM-DE


X



X
16

X


1.6 liter
China
4G18


X



X
16




1.6 liter
Japan, Europe, GCC, General
Z6-VE



X
X
X
X
16
X
X


1.7 liter
Japan, Europe, General
PN
X






8



X
1.7 liter
Japan, Europe
4EE1-T

X





8


X
X
1.8 liter US, Canada, Europe, Australia
BP-ME
X





X
16




1.8 liter
US, Canada, Japan, Europe, Australia, GCC
BP-ZE
X
X




X
16

X


1.8 liter
Japan, Europe, Australia
BP-ZET
X





X
16

X
X

1.8 liter
US, Canada, Europe, Japan, Australia,  General, New Zealand
FP-DE


X



X
16

X


2.0 liter
US, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand
FS-DE


X



X
16

X


2.0 liter
Japan
FS-ZE


X



X
16

X


2.0 liter
US, Canada
FS-DET


X



X
16

X
X

2.0 liter
US, Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan, GCC, General
LF-DE



X


X
16

X


2.0 liter
US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Australia, Japan, GCC, General
LF-VE



X
X

X
16
X
X


2.0 liter
Japan, Europe
LF-VDS




X

DISI i-stop
16
X
X


2.0 liter
US, Canada
PE-VPM




X
X
DISI
16
Dual
X


2.0 liter
Japan, Australia
PE-VPS




X
X
DISI i-stop
16
Dual
X


2.0 liter
US, Canada
PE-VPR





X
DISI
i-ELOOP
16
Dual
X


2.0 liter
Japan, Europe, Australia, New Zealand
PE-VPR





X
DISI
i-stop
i-ELOOP
16
Dual
X


2.0 liter
Japan, Europe
RF

X
X




8



X
2.0 liter
Europe
RF-MDT


X



DiTD
16


X
X
2.0 liter
Europe, Australia
RF-CDT



X


CiTD
16


X
X
2.2 liter
Europe
R2-CDT




X

CiTD
16

X
X
X
2.2 liter
Japan, Europe, Autralia, New Zealand
SH-VPTS





X
CiTD
i-stop
16

X
X
X
2.3 liter
US, Canada, Mexico, Japan, Australia, New Zealand
L3-VE



X


X
16
X
X


2.3 liter
US, Canada, Mexico, Japan, Europe, Australia, New Zealand
L3-VDT



X
X

DISI
16
X
X
X

2.5 liter
US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand
L5-VE




X

X
16
X
X


2.5 liter
US, Canada
PY-VPM





X
DISI
16
Dual
X


2.5 liter
US, Canada
PY-VPR





X
DISI
i-ELOOP
16
Dual
X


2.5 liter
Japan, Australia, New Zealand
PY-VPR





X
DISI
i-stop
i-ELOOP
16
Dual
X


Displacement
Region/Country
Engine Code
1st gen (BG)
2nd gen (BHA)
3rd gen (BJ)
MZ3 (BK)
MZ3 (BL)
MZ3 (BM)
EFI (EGI)
Valves
S-VT
DOHC
Turbo
Diesel


Where is my Protegé/Mazda3 made?

    All US/Canada Protegé's and some Mazda3's to date are built at the Hiroshima plant at Ujina,
    Hiroshima, Japan. Protegé 5's and most Mazda3s are built at the Hofu 1 plant near
    Yamaguchi, Japan.
    If people tell you the Protegé is built in the US, they are wrong.
    Only the old Escorts and Tracers (which were BG based) were built in Michigan
    and Mexico.

    Complete knock-down units (CKD) were built by various Ford/local factories in developing
    countries due to economic reasons. The following such known places of manufacture exist:


How do I find out the production number of my MP3/MazdaSpeed Protegé?
    There is no way of telling just by looking at the VIN because the MP3/Mazda- 
    Speed's serial number is pooled in with the normal Protegé production. However,
    you can try calling Mazda at 1-800-222-5500 and give them your VIN so they
    can tell you what MP3/MazdaSpeed production number you have. MazdaSpeed
    Protegé owners can also look at the VIN lists available off Mazda USA's website.
    2003 MazdaSpeed Protegé VIN list
    2003.5 MazdaSpeed Protegé VIN list

    Some MP3 production statistics:
    Some MazdaSpeed Protegé production statistics:


How do I find out the production number of my Mazda3 SP23/MazdaSpeed3?
    There is no way of telling just by looking at the VIN because the SP23/Mazda- 
    Speed3's serial number is pooled in with the normal Mazda3 production. However,
    you can try calling Mazda at 1-800-222-5500 and give them your VIN so they
    can tell you what SP23/MazdaSpeed production number you have. Mazda3 SP23
    owners can also look at the VIN lists available off Mazda USA's website.
    2005 Mazda3 SP23 VIN list
    Note: "M3H" stands for "Mazda3 Hatchback", and "M3S" stands for "Mazda3
             sedan". Code "A" stands for automatic transmission cars, and code "P"
             stands for manual transmission cars.
    Some SP23 production statistics:     All early production models came with the "BR1" Saddle Brown interior only.
    The "BP9" black interior option was available only in the later half of the production
    cycle.
    The Japanese version, the Axela "Sound Leather Limited" only came with
    the "BR1" Saddle Brown interior and automatic transmission. Snowflake White
    Pearl Mica was available for additional cost over the standard Carbon Gray Mioa
    exterior color. A 2.0l or 2.3l engine were available choices for the Sound Leather
    Limited. The only major differences in the Japanese version from the US version is
    the use of automatic climate control (which was not introduced in the US until 2006),
    a rear seat had a fold down center arm rest, and silver painted door handles. Only
    600 units were produced and they were only sold as hatchbacks.


What colors are available for the Protegé and Mazda3?
    These are the BG chassis US market colors (overseas names are in brackets):
     Black [Brilliant Black], color code PZ
     Harbor Blue Metallic, color code 5D
     Blaze Red, color code SQ
     Clear White, color code UF
     Tropic Emerald Metallic [Bluish Green Mica], color code Z1
     Niagra Silver Mica, color code 1S
     Sparkle Green, color code 11R
     Tungsten Grey Metallic [Mighty Grey Metallic], color code 6C
     Graceful Red Mica, color code 6L
     Elegant Beige Metallic, color code 6M
     Current Blue Metallic, color code 6N
     Misty Green Metallic (Sea Mist Metallic), color code 6Y
     Laguna Blue Metallic, color code 6W
     Ruby Mica [Passion Rose], color code J4
     White [Chast White], color code PT
    These are the BG chassis Asian/European market colors:
     Honey Blue, color code DX
     Silent Silver Metallic, color code 4Z
     Bay Blue, color code DV
     Neat Green Mica, color code 5S
     Deep Purple, color code E9
     Rasberry Metallic, color code 6V
     Steel Gray, color code 1H
     Passion Yellow Mica, color code 4R
     Whisper Green Mica, color code 5L
     Exceed Green Metallic, color code 6S
     Herbbie Green, color code FZ
     Shade Green, color code GU
     Coral Red, color code SS
     Crystal White, color code UC
     Silver Stone Metallic, color code 3L
     Wistaria Purple, color code 1V
 
    These are the BHA chassis US market colors (overseas names are in brackets):
     Silver Stone Metallic, color code 3L
     Sand Mica [Champagne Silver Mica], color code 4F
     Rain Forest Green Mica [Mid Green Mica], color code 15X
     Everglades Mica [Noble Green Mica], color code 11N
     Sparkle Green Metallic, color code 11R
     White [Chaste White], color code PT
     Black [Brilliant Black], color code PZ
     Sunset Red Mica [Oriental Red Mica], color code 12H
     Sandalwood Metallic [Moolight Grey Metallic], color code 12M
     Vivid Blue Mica [Aquarius Blue Mica], color code 12R
     Crimson Mica, color code 11L
     Blue Violet Mica [Solemn Blue Mica], color code 11P
     Azure Brilliance Mica [Nobel Green Mica], color code VQ
     Blueberry Mica [Solemn Blue Metallic], color code 12L
     Classic Red, color code SU
     Classic Red (clear coat), color code A3E
    These are the BHA chassis Asian/European market colors:
     Elegant Beige Metallic, color code 6M
     Tropic Emerald Metallic, color code Z1
     Ruby Mica, color code J4
     Blaze Red, color code SQ
     Champagne Silver Metallic, color code 19A
     Hunter Green Mica, color code EL
     Thunder Gray Mica, color code 6Z
     Indigo Blue Metallic, color code 12N
     Twilight Blue Mica, color code 12K
     Highlight Silver Metallic, color code 18G
     Grace Green Mica, color code 18J

    These are the BJ chassis world market colors (US names shown, overseas names are in brackets):
     Sunlight Silver Metallic, color code 22V
     Black Mica, color code 16W
     Midnight Blue Mica [Supreme Blue Mica], color code 22A
     Classic Red (clear coat), color code A3E
     Classic Red, color code SU
     Vivid Yellow [Sunburst Yellow], color code HZ (limited color)
     Pure White, color code A3D
     Laser Blue Mica [Starry Blue Mica], color code 24A
     Emerald Mica [Grace Green Mica], color code 18J
     Sand Mica [Champagne Silver Mica], color code 4F
     Millennium Red Mica [Passion Red Mica], color code 22K
     Sea Breeze Green Mica [Orient Green Mica], color code 23G
     Light Sandalwood Metallic [Galaxy Gold Metallic], color code 23F
     Highlight Silver Metallic, color code 18G
     White [Chaste White], color code PT
     Twilight Blue Mica, color code 12K
     Cranberry Mica [Aroma Red Mica], color code 18U
     Sandalwood Metallic [Moonlight Grey Metallic], color code 12M
     Spicy Orange Mica, color code 25T (limited color)
     Garnet Red Mica, color code 25F
     Shimmering Sand Mica [Sparkling Silver Mica], color code 24E
     Titanium Gray Metallic, color code 25G
     Blazing Yellow Mica, color code 26S (limited color)
    These are the BJ chassis Asian and European market colorss:
     Innocent Blue Mica, color code 20P
     Glacial Silver Metallic, color code 22L
     Aquarius Blue Mica, color code 12R
     Teal Green Metallic, color code 18V
     Champagne Silver Metallic, color code 19A
     Grape Purple Mica, color code 16X
     Snowflake White Pearl Mica (limited color), color code 25D

    These are the Mazda3 world market colors (US names shown, overseas names are in brackets):
     Black Mica, color code 16W
     Sunlight Silver Metallic, color code 22V
     Shimmering Sand Metallic [Sparkling Silver Metallic], color code 24E
     Solor Yellow Mica [Canary Yellow Mica], color code 25C
     Strato Blue Mica, color code 25E
     Velocity Red Mica, color code 27A
     Winning Blue Metallic, color code 27B
     Nordic Green Mica, color code 27C
     Lava Orange Mica [Passion Orange Mica], color code 27Y
     Starlight Green Mica [Sherbet Green Mica], color code 28A
     Titanium Gray Metallic II, color code 29Y
     Rally White [Arctic White], color code A4D
     Carbon Gray Mica, color code 28B (limited color in US)
     Copper Red Mica, color code 32V
     Whitewater Pearl Mica [Snowflake White Pearl Mica], color code 25D
     True Red, color code A4A
     Phantom Purple Mica, color code 34N
     Phantom Blue Mica, color code 32C
     Icy Blue Metallic, color code 33Y
     Galaxy Gray Mica, color code 32S
     Crystal White Pearl Mica, color code 34K
     Electric Blue Metallic [Aurora Blue Metallic], color code 34J
     Cosmic Blue Mica, color code 34M (limited color)
     Stormy Blue Mica, color code 35J
     Metropolitan Gray Mica, color code 36C
     Golden Sand Metallic, color code 37A
    These are the BK chassis Asian and European market colors:
     Lightning Yellow, color code A4J
    These are the BK chassis Chinese market colors:
     Diamond White, color code A2C
     Colorado Red, color code A3X
     Passion Red, color code A5X
     Panther Black, color code 17V
     Tourmaline Green, color code 34B
     Stardust Silver, color code 34C
     Platinum, color code 34D
     Performance Blue, color code 34L
     Silver Metallic, color code 36J
     Brilliant Black, A3F

    These are the 2nd generation Mazda3 world market colors (US names shown, overseas names are in brackets):
     Black Mica, color code 16W
     Copper Red Mica, color code 32V
     Velocity Red Mica, color code 27A
     Crystal White Pearl Mica, color code 34K
     Celestial Blue Mica, color code 38J
     Gunmetal Blue Mica, color code 38L
     Liquid Silver Metallic [Aluminum Metallic], color code 38P
     Graphite Mica, color code 38R
     Sky Blue Mica, color code 41B
     Indigo Lights Mica, color code 38K
     Dolphin Gray Mica [Newport Slate Metallic], color code 39T
    These are the BL chassis Asian and European market colors:
     Rally White [Arctic White], color code A4D
     Olympic Gold Metallic, color code 38N
     Autumn Bronze Mica, color code 41C
    These are the BL chassis Chinese market colors:
     True Red, color code A4A
     Brilliant Black, color code A3F
     Metropolitan Gray Mica, color code 36C

    These are the 3rd generation Mazda3 world market colors (US names shown, overseas names are in brackets):
     Whitewater Pearl Mica [Snowflake White Pearl Mica], color code 25D
     Aluminum Metallic, color code 38P
     Soul Red Metallic, color code 41V
     Jet Black Mica, color code 41W
     Meteor Gray Mica, color code 42A
     Blue Reflex Mica, color code 42B
     Deep Crystal Mica, color code 42M
     Titanium Flash Mica, color code 42S
    These are the BL chassis Asian and European market colors:
     Rally White [Arctic White], color code A4D


What  interior colors are available for the Protegé?
    Worldwide interior color information are listed.
    1990-1991:
      Off black, color code BF6
      Warm gray, color code BF7
      Blue, color code BF8
    1992-1994
      Off black, color code BH6
      Gray-Taupe, color code BH7
      Blue, color code BH8
      Wine, color code BJ0
    1995-1998
      Brown, color code BJ1
      Dark gray, color code BJ3
    1999-2000
      Gray, color code BK8
      Off black, color code BK9
      Brown, color code BL0
      Gray 2, color code BL2
      Off Black 2, color code BL3
      Gray/Blue 2, color code BL4
      Gray 3, color code BL7
      Gray 4, color code BL8
      Blue, color code BN0
    2001-2003
      Gray 1, color code BN1
      Gray 2, color code BN2
      Beige, color code BN3
      Off black, color code BN4
    2004-2006
      Black w/black leather seats, BP1
      Gray w/blue seat trim, color code BP2
      Gray w/orange seat trim, color code BP3
      Black w/gray seats, color code BP4
      Black w/blue seat trim, color code BP5
      Black w/red seat trim, color code BP6
      Black w/solid blue seat trim, color code BP7
      Black w/solid red seat trim, color code BP8
      Black w/black leather seats, color code BP9
      Black w/Beige, color code BR0
      Black w/saddle brown leather seats, color code BR1
    2007-2009
      Black w/Beige seats, color code BR2
      Black w/Black leather seats, color code BR3
      Black w/Beige leather seats, color code BR4
      Gray w/Gray seat trim, color code BR5
      Black w/Black seats, color code BR6
      Black w/Beige seats, color code BR7
      Black w/Gray seats, color code BR8
      Black w/Black (sport) seats, color code BR9
      Black w/Black seat trim, color code BS0
      Black w/Gray seats, color code BS1
      Black w/Beige seats, color code BS3
      Black w/Dark Gray seats, color code BS4
      Black w/Black (MPS) seats, color code BS5
      Black w/Beige seats, color code BT7
      Black w/Black seats, color code BT8
      Black w/Black leather seats, color code BT9
    2010-2011
      Black w/Black seats, color code BS9
      Black w/Gray seats, color code BT1
      Black w/Dune Beige seats, color code BT2
      Black w/Black (MPS) seats, color code BT4
    2012-2013
      Black w/Dune Beige seats, color code BU2
      Black w/Black seats, color code BU3
      Black w/Black seats, color code BU4
      Black w/Dune Beige seats, color code BU5
      Black w/Black (MPS) seats, color code BU6
      Black w/Dune Beige seats, color code BU7
    2014+
      Black w/Black seats, color code BV0
      Black w/Beige seats, color code BV1
      Black w/White seats, color code BV2


The Sunburst Yellow and Vivid Yellow have the same color code, what is different?
    Both of these colors are the exact same, the name Vivid Yellow is used in the
    United States (and probably some other countries) while Sunburst Yellow is used
    in Canada, Australia, Japan and possibly other overseas countries. The names
    used are probably for marketing purposes for the Protege/Familia/323 lineup.
    This however is not true for another Mazda car such as the MX-5/Miata/Roadster
    because in 1992 there was a limited run of Sunburst Yellow Miatas and just
    recently for a special web order version of the 2002 Miata, Vivid Yellow is
    available. For the Miata's, what differentiates between these two names is the use
    of clear coats-- the 1992 Sunburst Yellow Miata did not use clear coat, but the
    2002 Vivid Yellow Miata limited does. The color is the same though. It is not
    known at this time whether this applies for the Protege/Familia/323 lineup basing
    on the clear coat use or just marketing purposes.


What is the model change history on the Protegé & Mazda3? 

    (most of the information is from Gro Harlem's site)
    1990 - 323 (BG) sedan renamed to "Protegé" (overseas models continue to be 
                called "323"), aka 1st generation
            - Only model called "323" in US/Canada is the hatchback version
            - Protegé receives 1.8l SOHC (BP-ME) engine for the DX model and 1.8l
              DOHC (BP-ZE) engine for the LX model in the US
            - Canadian GT model features the 1.8l DOHC (BP-ZE) engine, rear spoiler,
               and GT sport seats
            - US 323 model receives only the 1.6l SOHC (B6-E) engine
            - Canadian Protegé & 323 LX models receives 1.8l SOHC (BP-ME) engine
            - Canadian SE models have painted power adjustable mirrors, spoiler, and
               power locks and windows in addition to the existing DX features
    1991 - DX models replace SE models in the US
    1992 - 4WD model discontinued, redesigned tail lights, new colors available
             - GT model in Canada discontinued
             - Californian 323s receive the VICS intake manifold for the 1.6l engine
    1993 - Mazda candle emblem used
             - Canadian limited 25th anniversary edition released, featuring GT model
               amenities but seats specially feature trim from the GT-X
             - California emissions 323 hatchback receive 1.6l SOHC 16 valve (B6-ME)
               engine
    1994 - Front end redesigned to be the same as the 323 hatchback
    1995 - Redesigned, new (BHA) model, aka 2nd generation
            - Dual airbags added, ABS optional for ES models
            - New 92 hp 1.5l DOHC engine (Z5-DE) used in DX and LX models
            - 1.8l DOHC (BP-ZE) engine and rear disc brakes available only on new
              top-level ES model
            - Minor tuning changes to 1.8L DOHC (BP-ZE) engine slightly increase torque
              (117 lb-ft vs. 114 lb-ft) and decrease horsepower (122 hp vs. 125 hp)
            - OBD-II ECU becomes standard
            - Revised rear suspension geometry to reduce oversteer
    1996 - Revised automatic transmission design adopted
             - Rear sway bar deleted from DX and LX models
             - Touring Edition package for Canadian LX models replaces ES model
             - Cheaper transmission adopted for the 1.8L DOHC (BP-ZE) engine
    1997 - Front turn signals moved from the bumper to the headlight corners
            - Taillights restyled
            - New colors available
    1998 - CD player standard on LX and ES models
            - Mazda wing emblem used
    1999 - Redesigned, new (BJ) model, aka 3rd generation
            - More luxurious, increased vehicle size, new colors available
            - New 1.6l DOHC (ZM-DE) and 1.8l DOHC (FP-DE) engines used
            - ZM-DE engine used in DX and LX models, FP-DE engine used in ES model
            - ES models get standard 15” alloy wheels
            - DX and LX models get standard 14” steel wheels with plastic wheel covers
            - Rear disc brakes deleted from ES model
    2000 - Reinforced rear bumper
            - Chrome highlights added to interior
            - Gauge lettering style changed
            - Seat-mounted side air bags added to ES Premium Package
            - Child safety seat anchors added to rear package shelf
    2001 - Front end redesigned
            - (FS-DE) 2.0 liter replaces the (FP-DE) 1.8 liter engine
            - 2.0 liter engine (FS-DE) optional on LX model, standard on ES model
            - MP3 limited (1500 cars US, 250 cars Canada) edition launched
            - Additional sound deadening material added to interior
            - New modular stereo system used (stereo wiring harness also changed)
            - Minor center console revisions
            - Locks added to folding rear seat-backs and glove compartment
            - Roof-mounted map lights become standard on all models
            - New colors added; all non-MP3 colors become available on all models
            - Revised suspension geometry, reinforced front and rear subframes
            - Front and rear disc brakes with 5 lugs standard/available on ES
            - 5 lug 16" alloy wheels, fog lights, and rear spoiler standard on ES models
            - All ES models receive same charcoal sport interior color (BN4)
            - LX 2.0 models get 15” steel wheels with plastic wheel covers
            - Second catalytic converter used in all cars sold in US/Canada ULEV emission
              standards (previously only applied to CA and NY version) 1.6l engine output
              decreases to 103 hp
            - Body-color side mirrors become standard on ES model about mid model year;
              previously only available with 2001 ES Premium package
    2002 - Protegé 5 wagon launched (only one trim level; available with standard Protegé
              ES features in addition to Protegé 5 only features
            - All US model Protegé's get (FS-DE) 2.0 liter engines
            - "2.0" badging discontinued due to all models having 2.0 liter engines (US)
            - All Protegé's and Canadian Protegé 5 get 3 spoke steering wheel
            - US Protegé 5 get leather wrapped steering wheel
            - More luxurious interior revisions
            - Color matching mirrors standard on LX and ES models
            - New italicized "Protegé" (similar to one on Protegé 5) used
            - All models receive V-rated tires
            - DX model receives standard 15" steel wheels with plastic covers
            - All Canadian Protegé's get chrome trunk garnish
            - Mid-year models receive new cupholders, black housing headlights,
              clear sidemarkers, optional leather seats (P5 only), and ES & P5 models receive
              tweeter speakers and available Activematic transmission
   2003 - All sedans receive black housing headlamps as well as Canadian P5s
            - Color addition and deletion
            - MazdaSpeed Protegé released with 170hp FS-DET engine (1750 cars US,
              250 Canada)
            - Deletion of roof rack on US 2003.5 P5s
            - Addition of subwoofer in spare tire area of US 2003.5 P5s
            - Addition of cargo organizer trays in spare tire area to accommodate subwoofer
            - Styling changes and deletion of fog lights in 2003.5 MazdaSpeed Protegé's
               (2750 cars US, 750 Canada)
            - Carbon-look power window button trim on Canadian P5s
            - Canadian Protegé 5's receive leather wrapped steering wheel
            - Canadian special edition Protegé 5 receive leather seats and carbon-look window
              switch panels
   2004 - The Protegé is replaced by the Mazda3
            - Protegé production continues in 3rd world, minor changes in 2006 & 2011 for China
   2005 - Special edition (SP23) released in US, equiped with features that were only offered
               in Europe such as heated seats, cabin air filter, and LED tail lights (5 door only) in
               addition to auto on/off headlights, rain sensing wipers, and Bose audio
   2006 - Color addition and deletion
            - Grand Touring option package includes features offered in the 2005 SP23 model
            - 5 speed Activematic transmission now available for the 2.3l models
            - All 45 state models comply with more stringent SULEV emission standards with
              redesigned cylinder head
            - 2.0l models receive S-VT variable valve timing and gains 2hp from previously
              (only 1hp increase for PZEV version)
            - 2.3l models now has PZEV version, which has reduced power
              to 153hp, and 149ft-lbs torque
            - Ambient temperature display introduced on all models and auto climate control on
              some models
            - Variable intermittent wipers introduced on some models
            - MP3 player now offered as part of 6 disc CD changer
   2007 - Color addition and deletion
            - Front grille and bumpers redesigned
            - Long rectangular shaped fog lights introduced
            - All sedans receive black housing tail lights with newly introduced clear lense style
            - Sedans now have optional LED tail lights
            - Sedans receive clear lense 3rd brake light while hatchbacks with spoilers receive
              clear style LED 3rd brake lights mounted in the spoiler
            - Silver interior accents introtroduced on some models
            - Imitation wood trim introduced on some models
            - White faced gauges replaces black faced gauges on lower to mid end models
            - Rear center fold down armrest introduced
            - Under carriage aerodynamic enhancements added
            - Suspension geometry revised with updated springs and shock absorbers
            - Additional chassis reinforcements added
            - 6 speed manual transmission available in some markets
            - Steering wheel shifter (paddle) controls added for some non-US ActiveMatic
              models
            - Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) standard on all models
            - Dynamic stability control (DSC) and traction control system (TSC) available on
              some models
            - Auxiliary input jack and power connector added in center console storage bin
            - Daytime running lights changed to use high beam bulbs which allows for HID
               headlights to be offered in Canada
            - Advanced keyless entry (card type) system introduced on some models
            - MazdaSpeed/MPS model introduced featuring a 263hp 2.3l DISI turbocharged
              engine with a special 6 speed manual transmission
            - 2.0l turbo diesel introduced in Europe
   2008 - Color addition and deletion for Canadian MazdaSpeed3
            - Mid-year models receive MP3 compatible CD players, piano black window trim
               (some models), dual illuminated vanity mirrors (some models), and power seat on
              GT (with leather) models
            - Mid-year MazdaSpeed3 models receive full black seats and also with Alcantara
               inserts on GT models as well as "MAZDASPEED" logo on piano black decoration
              dashboard trim
            - Mid-year color addition and deletion
            - 2.0l turbo diesel introduced in Australia
   2009 - Keyless remote trunk opener added (sedans only)
   2010 - Redesigned, new (BK) model, aka 2nd generation
            - New 2.5l (L5-VE) engine replaces the 2.3l (L3-VE) engine
            - New 2.2l (R2-CDT ) diesel engine replaces the 2.0l (RF-CDT) diesel engine
            - 6 speed manual transmission available in all markets
            - Fuel saving "i-stop" technology introduced for Japanese and European markets
            - Bixenon HID headlights with adaptive front lighting system introduced
            - Driver's power seat introduced
            - Dual zone climate control system introduced and available on some models
            - Push button start introduced and available on some models
            - HID Auto headlight leveling system introduced for North American versions
            - Mid-year models deleted exhaust tip (some models), rear seat center arm rest
              (some models), illuminated vanity mirrors, foot lamps, turn signal mirrors (some
              models), and color coded satellite antenna (sedan only)
            - Mid-year models feature redesigned bumper grilles (some models), and lower
              steering wheel spoke
   2011 - Celestial Blue Mica removed
            - Dynamic Stability Control now standard on some models
            - Traction Control System now standard on some models
            - Rain sensing wipers and auto headlights removed
            - Bixenon HID headlights with adaptive front lighting system removed
            - HID Auto headlight leveling system removed for North American versions
            - LED tail lights removed
            - Triple memory preset removed from driver's power seat
            - Mid-year models added center deshboard closeable vents
   2012 - Front and rear bumpers redesigned
            - New SkyActiv-G 2.0 (PE-VPM) engine introduced for both sedan & hatchback
            - New SkyActiv-G 2.0 (PE-VPS) i-stop engine introduced for non-US/Canada
            - New SkyActiv-MT (C66M-R) 6 speed manual transmission introduced
            - New SkyActiv-Drive (FW6A-EL) 6 speed automatic transmission introduced
            - Redesigned wheels
            - SkyActiv models feature blue ring around headlight projector
            - Color additions and deletions
            - Gauge cluster redesigned, lettering is now white
            - Optitron instrumentation removed
            - Gauge cluser changed to use gray gradiation meter
            - MazdaSpeed models retain red gradiation meter in gauge cluster
            - SkyActiv models use blue gradiation meter in gauge cluster
            - Information display lettering changed from red to white
            - Seat trim fabric changed
            - Piano black shifter trim plate added in automatic transmission versions
            - Silver trim ring added around shifter boot in manual transmission versions
            - Center console trim changed from silver to black
            - Radio buttons changed from silver to black
            - Silver steering wheel spoke in all models
            - Blind Spot Monitoring system available
            - LED tail lights reintroduced
            - Turn signal mirrors reintroduced
            - Illuminated vanity mirrors reintroduced
            - Bixenon HID headlights with adaptive front lighting system reintroduced
            - HID Auto headlight leveling system reintroduced for North American versions



Is the Protegé sold in other areas of the world under other names?
What other body styles have been available?

    1st generation (BG chassis):
      4 door sedan: Protegé (North America), Familia (Japan and some other Asian
        countries), 323 (Europe, rest of Asia, Oceania, Latin America)
      3 door hatchback: 323 (All markets)

    2nd generation (BHA chassis):
      4 door sedan: Protegé (North America), Familia (Japan and some other Asian
        countries), 323 (Europe, rest of Asia, Oceania, Latin America)
      3 door hatchback: 323 (Asia/Pacific), Familia (Japan), 323P (Europe)
      3 door fastback: 323C (Europe), *323 (Canada), Familia Neo (Japan)
      5-door hatchback: 323F (Europe), Astina (UK, Oceania), Lantis (Japan)
      * 1995 model year only; not sold in the U.S.A.

    3rd generation (BJ chassis):
      4 door sedan: Protegé (North America), Familia (Japan and some other Asian
        countries), 323 (some parts of Europe, rest of Asia, some Latin America countries),
        Allegro (Colombia, Venezuela and possibly some other South American countries),
        Etude (some African countries), 323Protegé (Oceania, Taiwan and Thailand),
        Isamu (Taiwan), Haima Happin (China), Haima Family (China)
      5 door hatchback: Protegé 5 (North America and Hong Kong), 323F (Europe,
        Honduras), Familia S-Wagon (Japan), 323Astina (Oceania), Astina NU (Hong
        Kong), Etude SportsWagon (some African countries), 323 M-RV (Taiwan), Isamu
        Genki (Taiwan)
    * 3-door versions discontinued in all markets


What other North American Mazdas share the same platform (i.e. basic mechanical
layout) with the Protegé?

    The 90-94 Mazda 323 3-door hatchback shares the same platform with the BG chassis
    Protegé. BG 323’s have a shorter wheelbase than a Protegé and use a different engine--
    a 1.6l SOHC 8-valve (B6-E) engine rated at 82 hp.  Very few parts from this engine are
    interchangeable with the 1.8l engine used in the BG Protegé; however, the Protegé’s 1.8l
    engines can be swapped into the lighter 323.  Many other mechanical parts will also
    interchange, although most 323 body panels are unique to the hatchback. When a new
    platform was designed in 1995, Mazda stopped selling the 323 hatchback in the US.

    The 92-96 Mazda MX-3 (known as the MX-3 Precidia in Canada) shares the same basic
    chassis with the BG Protegé. The MX-3 uses longer front and rear control arms than the
    Protegé and has a slightly wider track width.  The MX-3 also uses different powertrains
    than the Protegé; the 92-93 base model used an 88 hp 1.6L SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder
    engine, and the upmarket GS used a novel 130 hp 1.8L DOHC 24-valve V-6. In 1994,
    an upgraded 105 hp 1.6L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine was added to the base
    model, and it was retitled the MX-3 RS in Canada. Early in 1995, the V-6 was
    discontinued in the U.S., but was still sold in Canada through the 1996 model year. In
    1997, Mazda discontinued the MX-3.

    A 3-door hatchback version of the BHA chassis Familia Neo/323C was briefly sold in
    Canada during the 1995 model year.  It was sold as the 323 LS or 323 GS depending on
    trim, and was available with the same 1.5L DOHC and 1.8L DOHC engines as the
    Protegé.  The 323 GS had 4-wheel disk brakes. The 323 LS and 323 GS were (sadly)
    discontinued after only 150 were sold.


Has the Protegé ever been available in North America with four-wheel-drive (4WD)?
    The only 4WD Protegés in North America were sold in 1990 and 1991. They were
    available with the base-level SOHC (BP-ME) engine only, and almost all were sold with
    automatic transmissions. Almost none were sold outside of Canada and the far northern
    states of the U.S.

    These cars did not sell well, and they suffer from reliability problems. According to
    Canadian sources, the 4WD system is a light-duty version designed for Asia/Pacific cars
    with engines even less powerful than the SOHC BP-ME, and various parts tend to break
    under hard use. Poor sales prompted Mazda to discontinue the 4WD Protegé in 1992,
    and reliability troubles have forced most of these cars to retire to the junkyard. These
    cars are best avoided due to the high price and limited availability of replacement 4WD
    parts, and attempts to modify them are not recommended due to the weak drivetrain.


What stock wheel and tire combinations have been available on the Protegé?

Wheel size Tire size
Offset
Material
Lug patern
Applications
13" x 5"
P175/70R13
45 mm
Steel
4 x 100 mm
'90-'98 DX
14" x 5.5"
P185/60R14 45 mm
Steel 4 x 100 mm
'90-'98 LX
'95-'98 ES
'99-'01 DX & LX
14" x 5.5"
P185/60R14
45 mm
Aluminum alloy
4 x 100 mm
'90-'94 LX (opt.)
15" x 6"
P195/55R15
45 mm
Steel
4 x 100 mm
'01 LX
'02 DX & LX
15" x 6"
P195/55R15
45 mm
Aluminum alloy
4 x 100 mm
'99-'00 ES
'02 LX (opt.)
16" x 6"
P195/50R16
50 mm
Aluminum alloy
5 x 114.3 mm
'01-'02 ES
'02 Protegé 5
17" x 7"
P215/40R17
55 mm
Aluminum alloy
5 x 114.3 mm
'01 MP3
 '03 & '03.5 MSP

The center bore size of all 4-lug Protegés is 54.1mm. The center bore size of all 5-lug Protegés is 67.1mm.


What's the deal with the "Protegé ES GT"?

    The current 2001 Canadian spec Protegé ES is not fully equivalent to the US
    spec Protegé ES. The Canadian Protegé ES does not come with 16" alloy wheels
    (it has steel wheels stock), rear disc brakes, and spoiler. The GT package
    adds these missing features but also includes a moonroof, ABS, and air cond-
    itioning.


What is different about the MazdaSpeed Protegé other than the turbo, suspension, body kit, color, stereo
system, brakes, drivetrain, exhaust and wheels?

    There are many additions to the MazdaSpeed Protegé through the use of various European and
    Japanese spec parts. Some of the highlights are:

What is a MazdaSpeed Familia?
    The MazdaSpeed Familia (MSF) is essentially the Japanese version of the MP3. However, there are some
    significant differences (ones which many in the export markets desire):
    There were only 209 units produced. 100 units were available from May 24, 2001 as originally planned.
    However, since there was high demand for this car, another run of 109 units were made in September 2001.
    The high popularity of such a rare vehicle prompted Mazda to market the Sport20 sedan later that year as
    regular model (without all the upgrades/additions the MSF had, but basically the same equipment as the
    S-Wagon Sport20 of course). In addition, the MSF is the only FWD BJ Familia with the FS-ZE engine that
    has a manual transmission. The Sport20 sedan only came with the Activematic transmission (4WD was not
    available with the Sport20 sedan). The FWD S-Wagon Sport20 also only came with the Activematic trans-
    mission. Manual transmission was only available in the 4WD S-Wagon Sport20. Due to this phenomenon,
    the MSF is quite possibly the fastest BJ Familia in Japan (the MazdaSpeed Protegé is disputedly faster)
    even with its added weight (due to the stereo system).


What is the boost level set to on the MazdaSpeed Protegé?
    Depending on conditions, it is set to have boost up to 9 psi (0.62bar) and is controlled via a mechanical
    wastegate. Normal boost pressure is around 6psi (0.41 bar). When a knock is detected (even if it is not
    due to low octane fuel), ignition timing and fuel are both cut back at the same time.



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