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 21 through 30 of 77.00

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  No more GTIs - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Tim K - May 3 - 1:00 am

  Had many GTIs and recently a 3 series BMW, got tired of the endless maintenance issues and awful customer service by both VW and BMW. My wife has had a Mazda 3 for 6 years and I finally noticed how it was just so reliable and fun. Tested a Speed 3 and realized it was time to buy one. A very good car that trounces the VW and BMW. I was actually treated like a human by Mazda. Kudos to Mazda, learn some customer service and build reliable cars to VW and BMW.

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  Silver bullet - 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By serezhkin - April 6 - 1:51 pm

  Its been a year since I got my MS3 with Tech Package. I come from 96 5series/ 01 Infiniti so I expect a lot of features, quality interior and ample power, plus I wanted utility. MS3 delivers all this, and for only $25k. Checked out WRX (poor interior) and GTI (not many features and low power). MS3 won hands down. Love every minute of driving it, even a year and 6k miles later. The ride is pretty firm - you feel a lot of the road through the sit, and bumps can shake your soul out , but it corners like on rails and steers like a go cart. The torque steer is very manageable, and is a minor bother in 1st gear only. The audio system is great, climate control works like a charm. Great job, Mazda!

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  It Just Grows on Ya! - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Will L. - March 24 - 3:40 pm

  I have owned only Taurus SHOs for the past 17 years - all manuals. My last one just turned 190k as I went researching for a honorable replacement. It surely wouldnt be the new SHO as it was released w/o a stick and way too much $$$. As I went to different review and "best of" sites the MS3 was always ending up in the top two spots. Anyway ended up test driving the WRX (not as refined inside + more $) and the GTI (more $ and slower than the MS3). Since I have owned it (the MS3) I have to admit it just gets better every time I drive it - even with that goofy smile in the front. I did have to get used to a turbocharged car as far as shift points and turbo lag but all are quite manageable.

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  Work of art! - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By rustysurfsa - December 8 - 8:53 am

  I bought my Speed 3 w/ tech package after driving my girlfriends new Mazda 3 S. After driving her car I knew a Mazda would be my next purchase. These cars are amazing! They fly around the corners with ease! I not talking about cornering around a curb at 30 mph, I’m talking sideways at 60-70 mph. These things hold a line so well it’s like you’re on rail! The best thing about going around a corner in my Speed 3 is that it’s absolutely flat while doing it. I’m in love! Power is a huge + this thing is a rocket ship!! Fuel economy is great too. I averaged 28 mpg on my last tank. Only thing I would complain about is there’s a small amount of torque steer, but that adds to the fun. Great job MAZDA!

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  Traded a 2007 for 2010 - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By BAM2010 - October 6 - 6:43 am

  Just traded my 2007 Mazdaspeed3 for a new 2010 Speed 3. Only have 100 miles, so more on the handling and performance later. But initial impressions are all positive. Quick comments: 2007-09 versus 2010: Facts: Gone are the HID headlights and LED tail lights. Temp gauge is gone BUT now has a turbo boost gauge. I like that trade, but both would be better. Standard stereo is only a single CD changer not 6-disc Rear cargo liner from 07 fits perfect in the 2010. Winter mats from 07 fit fine in rear and OK in the front. Some gaps in front. 16” winter wheels and tires from my 07 fit on the 2010. Lug pattern, and hub diameter are the same. Still no heated mirrors.

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  Best Value - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By M-speed - June 1 - 6:53 am

  Traded in a Mazdaspeed MX5. Considered an RX8, but the Speed3 made me smile more. Outstanding all around performance and value. Best performance car I have ever owned. Maybe the best CAR I have ever owned!

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  Black smoke on SPEED3 - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By zoomzoom19 - May 20 - 2:10 am

  I bought this attractive, powerful turbo in early August. This was my first Mazda. Within a week, I noticed black carbon build up on entire rear of the car. The exhaust was covered in black soot. The engine performance seemed fine, but I noticed even after warming up, black smoke continued. I am very gentle with the car. Ive owned 7 cars in my 24 driving yrs & Ive never seen this. Dealership agreed when I returned to have them look at it. After diagnostic testing, they confirmed w/ USA Mazda that the car was operating in normal conditions. Mazdas customer hot line and technical service reps said the same. Im looking to return this car. I d believe its normal if it was diesel.

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  Wow. Incredible Buy. - 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By zoomerdan - March 14 - 11:16 am

  I just bought this car (July 2012) after doing lots of research on fun sporty cars on Edmunds. I needed passenger room, but wanted something fun to drive. Theres only a few cars that fit that category. This happens to be the cheapest- and the best. No other car offers such speed, handling, technology (like bluetooth and Bose radio), solid design and build quality, in a multi-passenger vehicle. I simply love it. The closest competitor is at least 5K more money.

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  Amazingly fun, but a bit thirsty - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Nick K - March 12 - 7:43 pm

  Having had the car for almost two months now, I can say that overall Im very, very happy with it. Turning is crisp and the car stays flat even with sudden direction changes. The trans in this car certainly isnt on par with any Honda or even modern VW Ive ever driving. Shifting takes some effort and missing the 2-3 shift is fairly easy by hitting the 1-3 gate. However, the limited slip is fantastic for tightening up the car in a corner. Turbo lag is present, but not horrible. The stability control sometimes intervenes without letting you know, making you think the lag is worse than it is. Overall, an excellent car and if performance is more important to you, blows the GTI away.

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  Goodbye VW - 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By madpuffin - March 8 - 12:16 pm

  Having been a VW FANatic since I was 16 has been practically destroyed after getting into this beast built by Mazda. I have owned 3 GTIs with the last one being an 07 Turbo, dumped tons of money into this problem fest—maxed out the performance without going the big turbo upgrade route and then the little German car made in mexico (lame) started to cry—all the time. I cant remember when I didnt have some sort of problem light on my dash Unlit. Mazdaspeed is awesome and it allows for amazing tuning for the enthusiast. This is an enthusiast car—given away from the feeling of sheer fun it is to drive this thing, although it can be a rough ride and I love it. Old men and children stay away.