2010 Mazdaspeed3 Review

The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 is the high-powered, performance-tuned version of the Mazda3 hatchback. Basically it is the epitome of Mazda's zoom zoom philosophy. For this model year, the Mazdaspeed3 is brand new. Mazdaspeed, Mazda's internal high-performance tuning and race division, has a long history in Japan. Known for producing exciting limited-edition performance models, the badge has only recently arrived in North America. The Mazdaspeed 3 is only the third Mazda in America to receive the full Mazdaspeed treatment. While the turbocharged engine is unchanged from the previous generation, the car looks dramatically different, outside and in. This speedy Mazda model represents one of the best values in performance cars. It features a 263-hp, turbocharged, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and is standard with a new six-speed manual transmission, limited-slip differential, a torque management system, electronic stability and traction control, 18-inch wheels and tires and sport-tuned suspension. The '10 Mazdaspeed3 has an EPA Fuel Economy of 18 mpg city and 25 highway, and comes with a starting MSRP of $23,195.  Priced well below $25,000, the Mazdaspeed 3 presents a performance bargain that should appeal to all younger enthusiasts thanks to its balance of speed, practicality and affordability.

Mazdaspeed3 Power and Handling

Based on the Mazda 3 hatchback, the Mazdaspeed 3 features a turbocharged engine, a specially tuned suspension and many other exclusive components. With its 263 horsepower and 280 pounds-feet of torque, the turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine is basically the same as the previous Mazdaspeed's, although the 6 speed manual has been slightly tweaked to give the Mazdaspeed3 more linear power delivery. The Mazdaspeed3 is a legitimate 155-mph automobile, with a relatively quiet, calm personality on the freeway. Yet the Mazda is really in its element in the corners, where there are no surprises in the way it handles. The chassis stays balanced and predictable right to the limit of tire adhesion, where the limited-slip differential still delivers optimal power to both front wheels.  Front-wheel drive remains the sole driveline. Both the springs and the shock absorbers are firmer than they were in the previous generation, and the steering rack is now secured in three rather than two places, which should improve feedback. Rather than switch to electric power steering, Mazda went with an electric steering pump but conventional hydraulic assist, improving on the efficiency of the previous generation's mechanical pump without sacrificing steering character. 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.

Design of the '10 Mazdaspeed

The Mazaspeed3 looks especially tough with its oversized air intake in the front bumper and the mildly flared fenders. The whole front fascia is unique, and the rear taillights and chrome exhaust tips set it apart as well. Unlike the regular Mazda3, the Mazdaspeed3 is only available as a hatchback. The Speed3's gets Mazda's new smiling grille. Anchored by a lower air dam and flared front fenders, it is even more exaggerated than the Mazda3. The 18-inch alloy wheels are unique to the 'Speed3. Big 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels clearly identify this as a high-performance car. The hood has a wide scoop to funnel air through the car's high-mounted intercooler.

Mazda Mazdaspeed3 Cabin

The Mazdaspeed3's gets typical Mazda interior styling along with some nice performance oriented touches such as red stitching in the steering wheel, shift knob and seats, all adding 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 best thing about the Mazdaspeed3's interior is the high-bolstered 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 will help you rack up a thousand miles of driving in a day.  An LED turbo-boost gauge appears between the speedometer and tachometer. For those needing more creature comforts, an optional tech package includes a 6-disc BOSE audio system, navigation, satellite radio, advanced keyless entry with push button start and a perimeter alarm. The Mazdaspeed3 Sport hatchback gets  sport seats with unique red-and-black cloth interior trim, aluminum pedals, automatic climate control, appropriately stiffer suspension tuning, and 215/45YR18 summer tires. Otherwise it is equipped similarly to the Touring models. A Grand Touring version adds leather interior, Bose premium audio with in-dash 6CD changer, rain-sensing wipers, trip computer, high-intensity headlights, LED taillights, and theft deterrence. The only significant factory option is the navigation/Sirius package.

Summary

Safety features that come on all Mazda3 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. Electronic stability control and traction control are standard on 3s Touring and Grand Touring. Historically one of the best values in performance cars, the Mazdaspeed3 competes with the Volkswagen GTI, Chevrolet Cobalt SS and Mini Cooper S JCW. For any consumers who already love Mazda's special performance abilities, you will love the Mazdaspeed3, as it goes beyond the traditional Mazda and makes driving it that much more fun. For the latest updates and more research, visit Mazda's official 2010 MAZDASPEED3 page.