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 51 through 60 of 77.00

• 

  You Will Be Surprised! - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By TheProf - April 10 - 12:20 am

  For months, I read up on all the info out there on the 2009/2010 MazdaSpeed3, and decided to go for a test drive. The car lived up to its reputation regarding performance and acceleration...it really goes when the turbo kicks in. I bought the car for $450 under dealer invoice at the end of the month. The surprises: The BOSE stereo system is very good, but this is not a "knock-em-dead gorgeous system". The clutch is a little stiff, and can take some time getting use to it. The seats are narrow, and firm. The fog lights work so so in terms of improving vision during foggy nights. The biggest surprise: The gas mileage I am getting....as in 30-32 MPG highway, and mid-20s around town!!

• 

  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!

• 

  Dollars per horsepower unbeatable - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By DG - July 24 - 7:13 am

  I love the power, the handling, and the overall package. The car drives extremely well. The only issues after 1500 miles have to do with the carbon from the tailpipes that ends up all over the rear of the car. I have owned several turbo cars and carbon build up on the pipes is common. This seems excessive. The car emits a lot of smoke on hard acceleration in 2nd and 3rd gear. Overall, it is the best value for the money in terms of horsepower and quality.

• 

  The Mazdaspeed 3 changed my mind - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Rube - July 8 - 3:26 pm

  Wonderful small car.... I thought once you go big you will never go small. The mazdaspeed 3 change my mind. You get track car performance in a small vehicle with great utility. I dont have to compromise.

• 

  A fun jack of all trades - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By maikell77 - February 24 - 10:15 pm

  I have owned my speed3 for almost 2 years now. In that time I have put 54,000 miles on it. I can say that its a fun car, It has a good amount of cargo space, and it roadtrips well. The fuel economy isnt bad, but the read out is a bit optimistic. I use the car for family roadtrips (500mi one way my wife and I), work (multiple 500 mi days per week), and even the ocasional track day. Currently at 77k and really nothing unexpected as far as maintence goes. Spirited public roads driving the speed3 is as much fun as the GTO and 540i M-sport I have owned previously. It does have understeer at the limit, and that does sap a bit of track day fun.

• 

  Handles like its on rails!! - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Dre - February 22 - 1:06 am

  Got a 2010 MS3 in Black Mica w/tech package at $200 over invoice($24,297).. Great freakin deal!! Love everything about the car.. Wasnt a huge fan about the front grill design, but in black you really cant tell at all.. I plan to upgrade the grill eventually.. Ride comfort is surprisingly good for a sports car.. This thing handles like no other fwd car ive driven.. Feels completely planted and exudes confidence in the corners.. Love the subtle styling cues as well.. People have no idea that this car is fast, unless youre a car person.. Very under the radar.. Bose sound system is excellent and the keyless start will never get old.. Plan to add MS CAI and exhaust once they come out.. FUN FUN!!

• 

  ZUM ZUM - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By zum_zum - February 20 - 10:08 pm

  700 Letters cant do this little red rocket justice but Ill try! It handles like its on proverbial rails. The steering is so tight its easy to oversteer for the first few trips out. The ride is as it should be fun and tight. You do feel and hear the road more than a lot of cars, but thats the way things are when youre riding in a Road Race car suspension. This Zoom Zoom straightens out the highway with flat corners and extremely tight steering. The engine revs like a sewing machine but not like Grandmas!! The Turbo brings it to life like no 4 cylinder Ive ever driven. RPMs are quick and effortless. The interior is comfortable with everything within reach and it seats "5"

• 

  Firecracker - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By mrowley - February 5 - 9:20 pm

  I bought the MazdaSpeed 3 to provide some driving fun. My other car is an Escalade, which is wonderful for long distance trips, but lacks soul. No such problem with the MazdaSpeed 3 - I have had an almost continuous smile on my face since picking it up. I cant get over the combination of handling, performance, comfort and sheer fun in a car costing $25,000. Ive had Saab 9000 turbos, a BMW 735iSE, Toyota MR2s and many other great cars but none was nearly as much fun as this. Brilliant.

• 

  Fun And Practical - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By D L Heilemann - February 5 - 1:33 pm

  As a still very active adult and recent dog grampa I found my 350Z satisfied all driving urges but I couldnt haul my mountain bike or my dog! I had to have a more practical everyday hauler plus the performance and handling I have always craved. I knew the MazdaSpeed3 had scored very highly in all media tests for the previous 3 years so when an all new 2010 model was announced I began to follow the reports and searched out the internet for spy shots and videos. Long story shot?...I bought the first one in town the day after it arrived! Even in town the 6 speed is a dream to use, the brakes are very impressive and the torque steer some complain about just reminds me to mind the cars power.

• 

  Performance and Luxury for 27k - 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By ian_m - January 20 - 3:58 pm

  Traded in my 2007 MS3 for a 2012 w/ tech package. Even though many shun from the new "smiley" look, the added features of the tech package will make you overlook the cars questionable design. Even though the older MS3 felt more aggressive, the new one has longer 1st and 2nd gears with a lot less torque steer. Gas mileage stays the same (19-21 city; ~30 hwy). Road noise is somewhat loud but tolerable. Nav screen is too small and more difficult to use compared to the nav in the older models. The hood scoop looks amazing and gives the car that POWER look. This car definitely gets a lot of looks, more than the older model for sure.