2009 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 - A Speedy Hatchback with Utility and Style

The 2009 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 is the high-powered, performance-tuned version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The Mazdaspeed3 is an entirely different product than its Mazda3 cousins, due to its turbocharged engine with direct fuel-injection that delivers 263 hp at 5500 rpm. The Mazdaspeed3 is simply built to be quick, and along with its power, it gets a six-speed manual transmission that rips off quick, clean shifts in a way that no other front-wheel drive car can match. There are no significant changes on the Mazdaspeed3 for the 2009 model year.   The Mazdaspeed3 features a high-output turbocharged inline-four, a stiffened suspension setup, and unique exterior and interior styling cues. The Mazdaspeed3 is only available as a five-door hatchback and its trim levels include Sport and Grand Touring models.  The 2009 Mazdaspeed's top competitors include the Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si and Chevrolet Cobalt SS. The main downsides to the Mazdaspeed is that there is no all-wheel drive available, the exhaust is overly loud even when cruising, and the navigation system is well behind current technology.  The plus sides of the 2009 Mazdaspeed are its powerful engine, comfortable sport seats, long list of safety features, and its versatile cabin.  The 2009 Mazdaspeed has a starting MSRP of $22,740 - $24,455.

Mazdaspeed Power

The Mazdaspeed3 Sport hatchback comes with a 263-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-4, six-speed manual transmission, and a limited-slip differential.  This is a legitimate 155-mph automobile, with a relatively quiet, calm personality on the freeway.

Driving the 2009 Mazdaspeed3

The 2009 Mazdaspeed3 comes with appropriately stiffer suspension tuning, and 215/45YR18 summer tires. It can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 6.1 seconds.  This Mazda is truly in its element in the corners, where there are no surprises in the way it handles. The chassis stays balanced and predictable and the limited-slip differential still delivers optimal power to both front wheels. The Mazdaspeed3 carves through the corners in a way that's distinct from its all-wheel-drive competitors, the Subaru WRX and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.  To control torque steer Mazda says controls have been added to limit uneven torque delivery, thereby improving drivability. Mazdaspeed3's front strut and rear multilink suspension features higher-rate springs and larger stabilizer bars for reduced body roll.  The 2009 Mazdaspeed3 has an EPA Fuel Economy of City: 18 mpg and Highway: 25 mpg.

Mazdaspeed Design

The Mazaspeed3 gives the look of a tough vehicle.   It's got an oversized air intake in the front bumper and the mildly flared fenders. The front fascia is unique compared to the Mazda3, and the rear taillights and chrome exhaust tips set it apart as well. The Mazdaspeed gets 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels, which clearly identify it as a high-performance car.  There are two versions of the Mazdaspeed3, Sport and Grand Touring.  Grand Touring adds rain-sensing windshield wipers, xenon headlights, Bose audio, leather seats and an optional navigation system to the extensive list of standard equipment.  The Mazdaspeed3 has widened front fenders, a large supplemental grille in the front bumper, rectangular fog lamps and ground effects. The liftgate incorporates a high-mounted spoiler with an integrated brake light. A single, 3.75-inch exhaust pipe exits beneath the bumper. The Mazdaspeed3 is 176.8 inches long and 69.1 inches wide. Because it's a hatch, the car is shorter than its sedan-based competition.

Inside the '09 Mazdaspeed3

The 2009 Mazdaspeed3 gets sport seats with unique red-and-black cloth interior trim, aluminum pedals, automatic climate control. The Mazdaspeed3's interior has the same overall look as its siblings, but red stitching in the steering wheel, shift knob and seats adds some motorsports style. The thick rim, leather-wrapped rim of the steering wheel feels substantial, while aluminum covers for the pedals enhance the presentation. The Mazdaspeed3 cabin's highlights are the sports seats, which cradle and support rather than confine. The strategic use of leather and cloth inserts in the Grand Touring version keeps you from inadvertently sliding around when  you're driving at a quick pace. These are the kind of seats that make you want to keep driving and driving.  The Mazdaspeed3 can seat up to five people in two rows.  The hatch is accommodating with 95 cubic feet of passenger space and 43.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear bench folded down.

Summary

The 2009 Mazdaspeed is a pure driver's car, and while it is all about performance, speed, and handling, it has a stylish exterior design and a comfortable interior space.  Its hatchback body style adds to its utility, giving it a decent amount of cargo space.  Safety features that come on all Mazdaspeed3 models include front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags, side air curtains, an energy-absorbing brake pedal, and a tire-pressure monitor. Anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist are now standard on all models as well. Read a Mazdaspeed3 Review by Car and Driver for more details.