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

• 

  The Darkness has enveloped me - 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By rickibobbi - March 9 - 2:50 am

  Just got my MS3 in black, Ive put on a heftier rear motor/transmission mount and a heftier rear sway bar (for autocross), Strange sensation to have all that power and control (particularly with the mods) and for such a low price, the dealers cant sell them because of the manual transmission, I kid you not, I test drove one that had a dead battery, it was sitting in a back lot, covered in dust, surrounded by mazda3 automatics, quite forlorn, but I got a really great price on the car! An amazing drivers car, simply fun and well sorted. Couldnt recommend it more. Youll run out of courage before this car runs out of a capability.

• 

  34,000 happy miles! - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By blackms3 - October 24 - 4:56 am

  Owned this baby for 34,000 miles now! First off, this is a really fun car to own. I have three kids (9yrs and 6yr twins) and they fit with no problem in this car (even with boosters). Never get tired of the power this car makes in every gear, passes without downshifting. Fuel eco is not exceptional, but coming out of a 12mpg truck Ive at least doubled it. Have to use premium fuel, runs like hell on lower octane fuel. If you live in an area that gets snow you will need a set of winter tires, I dont care how great a driver you think you are, the performance tires on this car are outright dangerous when temps fall in the 30s. All in all I would highly recommend this to anyone!

• 

  Youll forget about that weird grille - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By xyz - January 15 - 10:00 am

  When you drive this car because your own grin and the feel of this car will remind you why you like to drive. 1) yes, the previous speed3s were better looking, but much harsher. 2) the pull from the turbo is great from 3500 to 5500 rpm. 3) torque steer exists, but not much more than a maximas, and can truly add to the fun. 4) well put-together, with great shifting, suspension and steering! Had a Volvo v70r (300 hp turbo) that was super-clunky, expensive, and both raw and numb in comparison. 5) hatchback design is very useful. In conclusion, does this middle-aged guy look a little unconventional driving such a silly looking car? Probably, but what fun, utility, economy, reliability and fun!

• 

  Im Grinnin - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Bigmac - October 17 - 6:16 am

  Had the car a little over two months and nearly 3,000 miles. The car had all the prerequisites I wanted. Fun to drive, safe, reliable (hopefully) and practical. I live in West Virginia with an abundance of mountain roads. The car is blast to drive. There is a learning curve to handle the torque steer and notchy gearbox, plus the clutch is tricky to modulate. The highway ride is not too noisy or rough for my tastes. Love the car.

• 

  Fun - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Chris - October 16 - 3:20 pm

  Had gone out looking for a fun but practical car and checked the entire class out. Ended up choosing the speed for functionality, 5 doors, hatchback, nice upscale inside, etc. My wife wasnt going to see me walk away in a 2 seat sports car. Theres very little I dont like about this car, the digital turbo gauge, lack of a temp gauge, low shift points (power peters out past 5500 RPM or so and I came from a Vtec). But the interior looks great, and is roomy for me (62" tall). I get decent gas mileage with it, somewhere around 23 or so overall (though the trip computer keeps telling me I get 27), and while I am still not too fond of the smile, it is growing on me.

• 

  Love me Love me not - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By garv214 - October 2 - 4:15 pm

  I have had my Mazdaspeed 3 for 3 months and 3700 miles now and have noticed things I love and things that need improvement. The car handles very well, but may be a bit harsh for some. The interior is very nicely laid out (love the blue accent lighting). The exterior styling can take a bit getting used to. I bought mine in Black, so the "happy face" is not noticeable at all. I drive very conservatively so I have been averaging around 23-24 mpg with a 60-40 mix of city and highway driving. Overall a nice car and a great value, but Mazda needs to work on the clutch on these cars. My clutch is taking away from the fun of driving it, which is a big reason why people buy these cars.

• 

  Still Fun After a Year - 2013 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By jbowen52 - August 4 - 3:36 pm

  I was looking for a hot hatchback and the choice was the Mazdaspeed 3 or Focus ST. I was fortunate that the local dealer carried both brands so was able to test them literally side by side. They are both outstanding in their genre. The choice came down to a small price advantage for the MS3, a bit more power and my wife liked the looks better. Gas mileage had been a concern when looking, but at least here in Florida, it is much better than rated. I average 24 around town and around 30 highway. All around a really fun ride with a bit of a firm ride.

• 

  not much - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By RemusRM - July 29 - 10:50 am

  I had my 09 and that was brutal for everyday car. A true sports car. Decided to upgrade to the 2010 and is way more livable. I love the car but it got toned down so much to the level of a 3 series BMW. Is quick but not as the 09. Handles better then the 09. Is quiet and really on spot steering. Way better then anything I have driven