When it came time to give the 2006 Mazda MazdaSpeed 6 more visual punch, designers chose to forgo huge hood scoops and a big honkin’ rear wing, and we think the car is so much the better for it. The end result is a design that strikes a perfect balance between being low-key enough to not attract unwanted attention from the authorities and being distinctive enough to make even the causal observer realize this is more than just another ordinary grocery-getter.

Subtle changes include a bolder front fascia with blacked-out honeycomb lower grille inserts and halogen fog lights, a muscular hood bulge, flared fenders over the front wheels, side-sill extensions, a modest trunklid spoiler, and a rear valance with cutouts for the large dual chrome exhaust tips. Blacked-out headlight housings filled with jewel-like projector-beam headlights and turn signals further enhance the effect. Handsome 15-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels shod with low-profile performance tires add a finishing touch and make the car a real head-turner.

The same understated, sophisticated look continues inside. Sport models are fitted with well-bolstered front seats covered in a grippy black cloth, set off by drilled alloy pedals and carbon fiber-patterned trim on the instrument panel. Spring for the Grand Touring model and you get leather upholstery in either black or a limited-edition black-and-white combination, along with the additional comfort and convenience features noted earlier.

It’s one of the unalterable laws of nature that sporty cars like the 2006 Mazda MazdaSpeed 6 are going to be driven hard. That’s why we’re happy to report that Mazda product planners have included a full complement of advanced safety features on the standard equipment list. On the proactive side, four-wheel antilock disc brakes should help you avoid trouble while electronic stability control helps keep the car headed in the right direction. If a crash is unavoidable, dual-stage front, side-impact, and side-curtain airbags plus whiplash-reducing “active” head restraints atop the front seats should help soften the blow. Finally, an alarm and engine immobilizer are also included to make sure your new car doesn’t decide to take off without you.

The whole package is wrapped up with your choice of six largely understated colors including black, gray, silver, white and a purple hue called Black Cherry. The lone exception to this subtle color palette is our absolute favorite, a bright, stand-out shade called Velocity Red. So much for trying to keep a low profile while hot-footing it through town.