You got the deals backwards.. The Protege is 0% for 5 years, with $0 down and no payments till next year. Focus is 0% for 4 years. Protege has a 3yr/50K warranty, while the Focus has 3/36, which they're extending somewhat.
My g/f was in this situation in August, and she bought the Protege. Interior and exterior, it's a MUCH better car than the Focus. And we too got the X-plan (S-plan for Mazda) pricing. Drive 'em both and see what you like.
My honest opinion? If you're going to be putting crazy miles on your car, buy a beater with a warranty. I know someone that got a 1 year old Kia with 12K miles for $2000! Depreciation is your friend.
