European-specification four-wheel disc brakes, 274 mm (10.8 in) rotors up front with hydraulic, dual-circuit actuation and 279 mm (11.0 in) discs in the rear, all benefiting by 4-sensor, 3-channel ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) should be able to stifle forward progress quickly. They are reportedly engineered to endure repeated panic stops with very little fade.
Stylistically the MazdaSpeed car differs from the base Protegé in aerodynamic add-ons and paint schemes only. That said the deep front spoiler incorporating massive rally-style round headlamps on each side isn't exactly tacked on, but integrated fully from the side fender forward and the hood down. Bulging side skirts finish off the rocker panels while a 'whale-tail' style wing hovers over the rear decklid. Talk about presence, the already sporty Protegé is in solid street fighting form with this makeover, available only in Black Mica or Spicy Orange.
The tuner look and feel carries over on the inside with silver-face gauges and Sparco derived aluminum pedals and racing-style aluminum shift knob. Pseudo-suede side bolsters improve lateral support of the race inspired front seats while a leather-wrapped Nardi steering wheel is adorned with color-keyed stitching for that custom look.
What's not to like? Well the ride is reportedly harsh, as should be expected in this tuner class. If it wasn't the kids that are lining up to buy a limited edition example - 250 of the 2000 destined for North America will be coming to Canada - would be seriously put off. It's possible that its target market might not mind the reported excessive torque steer. Still most of its competitors are getting as much or more power from their little cars with virtually none. Lastly, despite its lightweight racing parts the MazdaSpeed is 135 kg (297 lb) heavier than the base Protegé, mostly due to the aerodynamic ground effects and audio equipment. Therefore, those who want it purely for the love of driving are stuck toting the extra weight along for the ride.