Like Axioms, the Mazda Protege 5 is a great value and gives huge bang for the buck. I've got one and luv it! It's a stiff suspension drivers car, though. Very responsive & begs for corners, but the ride is "European". Good mpg, too. Super fun to drive. Could use more HP, but you get what you pay for. However, the hatch is not huge for large garage sale items. If you need more cargo space with kids in the car, the Focus has more, but with much different styling. I think the Protege 5 looks sweet and has plenty of room for most applications. And Proteges 5's are getting cheap now that the Mazda 3 replacement is here. You could find a good deal. Only drawback is resale value( Focus is no better), but I plan to keep mine for awhile. I plan to get a rooftop cargo box for our young family and I'm set. Test drive the cars you like and go from there.
