Teresa’s View

I often tell my son and his friends to keep their cars on the “down low.” To which the boys roll their collective eyes and ask me not to attempt to be hip. But that’s not the point. Those giant wings, hood scoops and low-profile tires they prefer are just big ol’ billboards to thieves, saying, “Hello. There’s a really expensive sound system here.” The secondary message is to law enforcement officers, letting them know a young man with a lead foot is behind the wheel.

Is this really what you want your car to say behind your back?

It looks like at least Mazda listens to momma. This year they offer the MazdaSpeed6, an all-wheel drive, zoom-zoom sedan that lets you have the enjoyment of a pocket rocket without the unnecessary attention.

Although it may not exhibit the flash of some of the more notorious tuner cars, its 274 horsepower 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder power plant is said to run the 0-to-60 dash in 5.4 seconds. According to Mazda, it’s their most powerful engine in production. That doesn’t put it in the same league as a Mitsubishi Evo MR or Subaru WRX STi, but it’s a reasonable competitor to the BMW 330xi, Audi A4 quattro, and Subaru Legacy GT.

Much of the wonder is provided by the miracle of modern engine technology. Using the combination of direct injection technology and a turbocharger, Mazda engineers were able to smooth out that dreadful turbo lag, provide strong acceleration and deliver excellent torque production, with a bonus of increased fuel efficiency. An all-new high-performance six-speed transmission – the only transmission available – is wonderfully geared for enthusiastic driving.

Just because the MazdaSpeed6 isn’t flamboyant doesn’t mean it’s a slouch in the looks department. Cat-eye headlamps grace a deeply contoured front end that differs ever so slightly from the Mazda6 from which it’s derived. The backside features a pert integrated rear spoiler.

Not much in the cabin was changed, with the exception of a custom shift knob, semi-bucket sport-type front seats, some upgraded plastics and bits of chrome trim. The MazdaSpeed6 Sport comes with tuner-type appointments such as stainless steel scuff plates, alloy pedals and a BOSE audio system with in-dash six-disc CD changer. Upgrade to the Grand Touring edition for leather-trimmed upholstery and heated front seats. An advanced keyless entry system includes a clever button on the door handle that unlocks the car without having to remove the key from your pocket or purse. An all-new Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive system features three automatic modes – Normal, Sport and Snow – for maximum traction and handling. ABS is standard.

What Is It?: The MazdaSpeed6 is a five-passenger, four-door midsize sedan offered in two trims: Sport and Grand Touring. Prices start at $29K.

Cheat Sheet: Ford owns Mazda.