2013 Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Review by Cars.com Staff

2013 Mazda MAZDASPEED3

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2013 Mazda MAZDASPEED3

Starting MSRP $24,200


Expert Reviews

By Cars.com Staff

Cars.com National June 29, 2012

Vehicle Overview

The five-seat Mazdaspeed3 is the high-performance version of the compact Mazda3. It's powered by a 263-horsepower, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 280 pounds-feet of torque. Historically one of the best values in performance cars, the Mazdaspeed3 competes with the Volkswagen GTI and Subaru Impreza WRX.

New for 2013

The 18-inch wheels gain a gunmetal finish, and the side mirrors and rear lower valance have a black finish. A USB port now comes standard, and a Technology Package features a touch-screen navigation system, HD Radio, text message playback and voice-activated reply, and Pandora integration.

Exterior

Though the regular Mazda3 comes as a sedan or four-door hatchback, the Mazdaspeed3 is only available as a hatchback. The Speed3 has a smiling grille that's anchored by a lower air dam and flared front fenders. The hood has a wide scoop to funnel air through the car's high-mounted intercooler. Exterior features include:

  • Standard dual tailpipes
  • Standard fog lights
  • Standard rear spoiler
  • Unique 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Available bi-xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights

Interior

The Mazdaspeed3 shares its overall interior design with the regular Mazda3, but it has red accent stitching on the shift boot, steering wheel and seat fabric. Interior features include:

  • Standard leather- and cloth-trimmed sport seats
  • LED turbo-boost gauge between the speedometer and tachometer
  • 60/40-split folding backseat
  • Available 5.8-inch touch-screen navigation system
  • Available HD Radio

Under the Hood

Front-wheel drive remains the sole driveline, and the car is fitted with a standard six-speed manual transmission. Mechanical features include:

  • 263-hp, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine makes 280 pounds-feet of torque
  • Limited-slip differential 
  • Summer tires

Safety

Standard safety features include:

  • Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes with brake assist
  • Electronic stability system with traction control
  • Front-seat side-impact and side curtain airbags

Additional Reviews

Cars.com Expert Reviews

Kelsey MaysCars.com NationalOctober 15, 2012
Cars.com StaffCars.com NationalJune 29, 2012

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*Invoice prices are made available by Cars.com and are not dealer advertising. All prices are subject to regional variations. Prices last updated 9/23/10. Click here for more information.