Overview & Reviews

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 division turned its attention to the second-generation Mazda 3 and the result is the Mazdaspeed 3. Note that this article is about the second-generation model; we also have a review of the first-generation car, known as the Mazda Mazdaspeed Mazda 3.

The Mazdaspeed 3 features a turbocharged engine, a sport-tuned suspension and many other exclusive components. Priced affordably, the second-generation Mazdaspeed 3 is a performance bargain that should appeal to any enthusiast thanks to its balance of speed, practicality and affordability.

Current Mazdaspeed 3
The Mazdaspeed 3 is a front-wheel-drive, high-performance hatchback with four doors. Its turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine pumps out 263 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, and comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. Zero to 60 mph takes 6.3 seconds, which is pretty quick for this class of car.

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels with summer tires, a sport-tuned suspension, a limited-slip differential, foglights, full power accessories, dual-zone automatic climate control, front sport seats, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a Bose stereo with a CD player and iPod/USB interface. Option highlights include adaptive bi-xenon headlights, keyless ignition/entry and a navigation system.

In reviews, our editors have noted that this Mazdaspeed 3 handles markedly better than the previous-generation model, posting superior results in both instrumented handling tests and subjective canyon drives. We've also lauded the high-quality interior materials and upscale dashboard design. There is plenty of cargo room in the rear hatch, and the 60/40 split rear seats fold down to open up even more space. There's also decent seating room in back for adults.

On the downside, the exterior styling is controversial, and while the 2.3-liter turbo doesn't fall flat at higher rpm like it did in the first-generation car, it also hasn't gained any power. Moreover, torque steer remains an unwelcome companion when accelerating hard on uneven surfaces or powering out of corners. Overall, the Mazdaspeed 3 isn't without its faults, but we still rate it very highly among cars of this type.

Used Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 Models
The current-generation Mazdaspeed 3 debuted for 2010 and carried on for the first few years with only minimal changes. The optional navigation system for the 2010-'12 cars was a smaller, less useful version than the larger touchscreen unit found in the current Mazdaspeed 3.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 77.00

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  even better than i was hoping - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Zak - November 1 - 10:00 am

  bought an 05 3s and loved it, i test drove the speed 3 one day while mine was having work done, and i was sold. its just crazy fast, too much fun, other than the little bit of turbo lag and torque steer which is to be expected, its amazing. the best performing car you can get for under 25k

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  2010 Speed vs. GTI - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Old Yeller - September 20 - 6:16 am

  Test drove both 2 days ago, bought the Speed3. Speed3 throws you back in your seat, wilder. GTI smoother. Speed3 turbo lag noticeably shorter than GTI. Speed3 exhaust gets pleasingly throaty when pushing acceleration. VW exterior looks more classic with very cool circular wheel cutouts. Speed3 exterior more futuristic/controversial. Speed3 wheels cheaper looking. IMHO, Speed3s interior is better (partial leather seats). Not a fan of the GTI plaid. GTI felt more cramped. Difficult to see front lines of car from GTI. Mazdas more reliable. Base Speed3 is 22K plus delivery, tax, title, tags, etc. GTI has special 1.9% financing. Both great cars. Test drive and choose for yourself

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  Fantastic car if you have smooth roads - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By slow_jim - August 18 - 6:29 am

  I owned this car for about a year and had absolutely no issues with it. Added on a couple of goodies (Corksport intake and cat delete, Cobb Accessport) which significantly increased the power without sacrificing MPG or driveability. For the $$ the MS3 really is the performance bargain of the century. Great build quality and reliability, handling, power, its all there. Dont listen to the weenies who complain about torque steer, its really not bad or difficult to control. Wheels spinning? STOP PUSHING THE GAS PEDAL. Its not complicated. The only reason I got rid of the car was the ride comfort. We have horrible roads in Ohio with giant potholes and lots of speed bumps so it was just a pain

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  tires wear out at 17,000 miles - 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By bryanp98 - August 13 - 4:47 pm

  I bought my vehicle in january 2011 at Cerritos Mazda new. 2011 Mazdaspeed 3 Black mica, Exellent performance but you will need to buy new tires at 15,000 miles each tire will cost you $250. or more and also youll need an aligment because my tires they were wear out from the inside. warranty will not cover poor aligment or tires wear out to early.

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  Unparalleled Fun - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By bscanlan - May 25 - 11:36 pm

  Just got back from a short trip with my two day old 2010 MS3. What a fun and confident car. I did extensive research for months on what would give me some sense of practicality with a great deal of performance. Camaro (RWD), Genesis (RWD), WRX (Snoozing plastic interior), and others (various maladies); and the MS3 came out on top. I made the right decision! Handling, power, safety, interior design, and fit and finish make it the perfect car unless you can store it on weekdays and during winter and drive it only for fun. Though maybe the MS3 is superior for that too.

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  2011 Speed 3, Initial Review - 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By MARROD - March 27 - 10:00 am

  Traded in 09 GT hatch,(2.3, 5M),a very good car. Had the new Speed 3 for just over a week, 1100 miles with a trip from mid MI to the UP. Car feels more substantial, much stronger and more firmly planted than the regular Mazda 3. Very good brakes and steering. Shifter better than I expected. The Tech Package and new shift pattern have me on a learning curve. Good drivers seat. Power in 1st and 2nd is scary, torque steer, but manageable. In third and up, power flow is great. Even in 6th, power is right there for passing at highway speeds. Read out showed 29.4mpg for the trip, paper/pencil 28.9. Great for a new, tight power train. Nice touring car for 1 or 2. Cant be beat for the price!

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  Too Good To Be True - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Speed Demon - March 20 - 8:36 pm

  After owning several bona fide "sports cars" (BMW M Coupe, 2 M Roadsters & Porsche 911), I can honestly say I am happier with my MS 3 than any other sports car I have ever owned. I dispute the 0-60 and 1/4 mile times I have read about. Living in Colorado at over 5500 feet I am still able to pull sub-5 second 0-60 and sub-14 second 1/4 mile times. As with most of these ratings, the driver has as much to do with the times as the car. I have noticed torque steer like everyone else, but I wouldnt call it bothersome. The Tech Package is worth every penny. Cant wait for the tuner parts to arrive at the dealership. I was able to buy the MS 3 with 7 Yr./75K bumper to bumper wty. for 26K.

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  Best kept secret - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By dledezma - February 12 - 4:43 pm

  This little bottle rocket is the best kept secret in the auto world for the most fun and fastest car in the economy class. Just got it 4 days ago and wish I could drive it all day!!! If youre looking for an inexpensive super fast, very economical car, this is IT!!

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  Its fantastic,,, - 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By mrdreadnot - January 17 - 12:04 am

  I have owned a 2007, 2010, now a 2012. All were GREAT ! For those on the fringe of buying a hot hatch, dont go by reviews or word of mouth: test drive one and see for yourself. One of the things that burns me is that some say the seats are uncomfortable. For me (real bad back and over 300 lbs) they are perfect. Drove back and forth from TX to CA several times,no prob. Torque steer? It will get your heart pumping if you dont expect it. Road noise? The throaty sound from the engine is to die for. Price? Try beating it.

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  10,000 Miles In - 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By civitaresel - October 5 - 4:43 am

  Cross shopped WRX, Ralliart, GTI. None offer as much equipment for the money. Ive deemed third gear the yellow light gear as its the one to go to in order to blast from 35 ish to 65 or so. Merging is a joke, even in Philly where no one moves over (Im a burgher), simply engage the yellow light gear and go. Constant 75 mph on Pa turnpike for 300 miles yields 28 mpg as calculated at the pump. Even in sixth you easily pass any car with vigor. Exhaust is very quiet at highway speeds. Seats are comfortable but if youre anything other than slim to medium weight (Im 510 and 175 on a fat day) they will most likely be to form fitting for you. Overall, very pleased with the purchase