2011 Mazda Mazdaspeed3

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The 2011 Mazdaspeed3 returns for a new model year with minimal changes, as the speedy hatchback was redesigned last year. New for this year is a Technology package, which adds rain-sensing wipers; automatic, adaptive bi-xenon headlights; and LED taillights, which were all previously unavailable on the Speed 3. The carryover Tech package consists of a 242-watt Bose sound system, a navigation system, an alarm, and proximity-based keyless entry and ignition. The 2011 Mazdaspeed's combination of nimble handling, pin-you-to-the-seat turbo power, practicality and value have made the Speed 3 a favorite among those looking for thrills on the cheap. The 2011 Mazdaspeed 3 is a four-door hatchback available in one trim level known as Sport. Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, high-performance summer tires, a limited-slip differential, foglights, full power accessories, cruise control, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, front sport seats, leather and cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a digital turbo-boost gauge, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a six-speaker stereo with CD player, auxiliary audio jack and steering wheel controls.

Mazdaspeed3 Power and Drive

The Mazdaspeed3 comes with a 263-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-4, six-speed manual transmission, limited-slip differential, sport seats with special red and black cloth interior trim. For 2011, front-wheel drive remains the sole driveline. 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. Packing 263 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, this turbo-4 is a hard charger and will get you to 60 mph in a quick 6.3 seconds. The extra power is easily managed and reminds you that this potent hot hatch demands respect from your right foot. The precise steering, buttoned-down suspension and sticky tires make the MS3 fun in the corners, too. There's no doubt that the Speed 3 is one of the best-handling and most entertaining hot hatches on a winding road. Impressively precise, the steering provides plenty of communication and faithfully transmits road information like few front-wheel-drive cars can. Considering the car's performance potential, the suspension manages to also provide a fairly compliant ride.

Design of the 2011 Mazdaspeed3

While the turbocharged engine is unchanged from the previous generation, the car looks dramatically different, outside and in, than from pre-2010 models. Though the regular Mazda3 comes as a sedan or four-door hatchback, the Mazdaspeed is only available as a hatchback. The Speed3's smiling grille is based on the regular model's grille, but it's more exaggerated here, 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. Beyond the spirited driving experience, other key attributes of the Speed 3 include a well-trimmed cabin boasting solid fit and finish as well as some features (either standard or optional) that you might not expect in this segment. You also get a fair amount of utility, too. Thanks to its decent-sized rear seats and 42.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, the Speed 3 can handle just about anything life throws at you.

'11 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 Cabin

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. Inside, the Mazda3 offers Bluetooth cell phone connectivity, a Bose Centerpoint surround system, and an available Multi-Information Display that adds a second level of information. The interior is first-class interior with lots of other available amenities. Higher line models get a Multi-Information Display below the windshield that houses readouts for the vehicle information center, climate system, radio presets, and even the available navigation system. A unique cluster of buttons on the steering wheel controls these functions. The readouts are easy to see and the steering wheel controls work intuitively. It's a nice trick setup. The other controls are mounted high on the dash's center stack, and are also easy to see and use. The Mazda3 is practical, with useful small items storage up front, as well as plenty of room for the front passengers. The back seat will fit two adults fairly comfortably, provided the front occupants aren't too tall. The Mazdaspeed3 rear seats fold 60/40 to create a mostly flat load floor. Flip the back seats down in the hatchback and you'll have lots of cargo room.

Conclusions

Historically one of the best values in performance cars, the Mazdaspeed3 competes with the Volkswagen GTI, Chevrolet Cobalt SS and Mini Cooper S John Cooper Works. Safety features standard on the Mazdaspeed3 include dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, active front head restraints, tire-pressure monitor, and anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution. Mazdaspeed, Mazda's internal high-performance tuning and race division, has a long history in Japan. Go to the Mazdaspeed website for details, history, and more on this division of Mazda. Known for producing exciting limited-edition performance models, the division began making cars for North America in the mid-2000s. The Mazda Mazdaspeed3 was only the third Mazda in America to receive the full Mazdaspeed treatment. Based on the Mazda 3 hatchback, the Mazdaspeed Mazda 3 features a turbocharged engine, a sport-tuned suspension and many other exclusive components. For the latest news and updates on this model, visit the official MazdaSpeed3 site.