The five-seat Mazdaspeed3 is the 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 2012 A blind spot warning system is newly available, but there are no other significant changes.
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
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 integrated traction control
