There is some torque steer, although it has been minimized. The turbo, when it kicks in, can result in some serious loss of traction, which the driver would be wise to ensure happens with the wheels pointed straight ahead. And if the road surface is wet, those factors are multiplied several fold. The turbo will light up the front tires in second gear with injudicious (read: maximum) throttle application. Those expecting typical compact car attributes such as ride comfort and quiet running should probably look at any of the regular Protegés, because this one is for enthusiasts willing to put up with a few rough edges. The Speed still retains top-rated interior design, exemplary fit and finish, the practicality of a compact sedan, and a full factory warranty, though, so enthusiasts with a practical streak can have their cake and eat it too.
But with only 1,000 to be available in Canada for the 2003 model year, they will likely be sold-out soon. Oh, and by the way, that not-so-subtle Spicy Orange paintjob was available only on the first 250 units shipped to Canada last fall. The last 750 units, to arrive this spring, will be in either Yellow or Silvery Grey. The unofficial word is that we might just see the Speed treatment on the very popular Protege5 wagon at some point too. The MazdaSpeed Protegé was voted by AJAC's members as the Best New Sports Sedan Under $35,000. Make that well under $35K. Like, $26,995. For all the equipment on it and the fun it results in, that makes it the performance bargain of the year, too.