Found this. In the Economy car class, the 2002 Protege ES won the AJAC's 2002 Car of the Year Award. Here is a link of the winners:



List of winners on MSN.ca

 

Pros

1. The simple and crisp styling

2. The generous interior space for five

3. The safe and predictable handling

4. The clean and economical engines

5. The sporty performance of the 2.0-liter engine

6. Ride comfort is surprisingly cushy for a small car

7. The quality of construction, finish and materials


Cons

1. Over boosted steering making it very sensible

2. Emergency stops are long and impredictable without ABS

3. The 1.6-liter performance with automatic transmission

4. High noise level reveals a lack of soundproofing

5. The dull presentation of the cabin