Review: Speed Racer #4
Out now from Mad Cave Studios
The beginning of a new adventure for the team in Speed Racer #4 from Mad Cave Studios.
It’s do-or-die for Speed Racer, as he must compete in the Great Alpine Race... the harrowing racetrack that cost his brother Rex his life! But when the Car Acrobatic Team brings in their legendary star driver — the ruthless Kim Jugger, better known as the Black Jaguar — can even Racer X help Speed survive long enough to reach the finish line? Or will the C.A.T. Team’s schemes put an end to Speed’s ambitions before they’ve even begun?
Written by David Pepose, Art by Davide Tinto, Colors by Rex Lokus, and Lettering by Buddy Beaudoin
This issue marks a brilliant beginning to a brand-new arc, and once again, Speed Racer proves it’s not slowing down anytime soon. The creative team continues to make waves in the racing comic scene, pushing the stakes higher with every page. The sense that the racing circuit is evolving — becoming more dangerous, unpredictable, and politically charged — really comes through here, setting the stage for an explosive story continuation.
After just a short amount of build-up, we’re thrown straight into the heat of the race — and what a race it is. Speed isn’t alone this time, as Racer X joins the fray, but even with that added dynamic, the odds are clearly stacked against him. The C.A.T. Team’s underhanded tactics add tension and frustration, giving the race extra bite. It’s classic Speed Racer energy — guts, grit, and determination in the face of sabotage and deception.
The storytelling is cleverly structured, perfectly balancing anticipation and action. The build-up gives just enough to establish what’s at stake for both sides, and once the flag drops, it’s full throttle all the way to the cliffhanger. The pacing is spot-on — you can feel every panel's speed, risk, and urgency.
Alongside the high-speed racing, the issue delivers fantastic banter and genuinely intense character moments. The interplay between Speed, Racer X, and the supporting cast adds depth and humanity to all the adrenaline. The gadgets and weapons are another standout — brilliantly designed and executed, they capture the inventive spirit that makes Speed Racer so much fun. Each new tech trick feels nostalgic and fresh, expanding the story in exciting ways.
Visually, the comic continues to impress. The artwork and colouring remain exceptional — vibrant, kinetic, and full of motion. The art team's capture of the flow of the races, the intensity of the turns, and the sheer speed of it all is genuinely impressive. In a story that lives or dies on its sense of movement, this creative team nails it.
As mentioned, I came to this series with only passing knowledge of Speed Racer as a TV show, never having really watched it properly. But that’s the beauty of this comic — you don’t need any prior connection to enjoy it. It’s accessible, exciting, and clearly made with both longtime fans and newcomers in mind.
Speed Racer #4 is another fast, fun, and finely tuned chapter in what’s shaping up to be a standout run from Mad Cave Studios. If you love high-stakes action with heart, this one’s absolutely worth your time.
Get it at Forbidden Planet:
