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:
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Most affordable fun - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By crh_usa - October 7 - 2:00 amI hesitated for a long time between the more reasonable Civic Si, the Golf GTI and the speed. The strong financial incentives on the Mazda 2010 made it an easier decision. This car is so much fun to drive. Without the turbo on, it is a peppy economical car. With the turbo on, you wake up the beast.
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Awesme ride - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By James - September 30 - 3:10 pmIve had the car for about a month. I have about 2k fun miles on this car. The car looks good and is a blast to drive. The cars handling is excellent. It hooks up well on the curvy roads. I use this car as my daily commuter and put about 140 miles a day round trip. Im totally happy with this car. I have the tech package and would recommend it. There is some carbon build up on the tail pipe and some of it ends up in the back hatch as noted on a previous post. Not an issue. A good coat of wax will protect your paint and make it easy to clean off. The best bang for your buck!!
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All fun and no issues - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By Driving can be fun - August 19 - 8:26 pmA fun car, with performance and an appealing appearance, has always been important to me. Sometimes there have been limitations that you live with: expensive maintenance (German) ,little storage (Corvette, Miata, 911), low technology (GTO). No more! A dream to drive with some small challenge with torque steer in first and second. A small price to pay for the Zoom-Zoom. Carries my golf clubs without lowering the rear seats and a 47" LCD HDTV, still in the box, with the seats down. Rear passengers have real seats and leg room.
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Believe the Hype! - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By Herkdriver - December 12 - 3:06 pmBest deal going for the $! Paid $21,900 w/Toyota owner loyalty rebate. Didnt get the tech package but the audio w/std system is great! Single CD is annoying, but BT is awesome. Has built in MP3 plug w/power in center console. Impressed with std opts (dual zone auto A/C, info center w/trip computer, steering wheel cntrls, stainless steel ft pdls). Car is FAST but well behaved on the roads. The turbo kicks in smoothly w/no lag. Downshifts on the highway N/A for passing. Just step on the gas & let the turbo work for you! Tires are VERY loud on the road but grip well in rain. Lights work well at night w/fog opt. Econ-75 mph=27-32 mpg depending upon gradient. Sports car, folks! Not a luxury car.
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Defintely "What Do You Drive" - 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By alfagtv630 - November 26 - 9:52 pmA car built for drivers, with little compromise. If you dont love to drive (and I dont mean tour), this is not the car for you. Congrats to Mazda for being willing to build a car like this knowing that it will be a low volume seller at best. Think a practical, budget Lotus, older 911, Alfa GTV6 (or maybe a 75 sedan or 164S), BMW Z3 coupe or E30 M3, Saab 9-3 Viggen or early 9000 turbo, Audi Quattro GT or a first-gen A-4... or a number of true Europe-only hot hatches (Ford Escort RS). Go look up an Alfa 146 GTA, maybe that is the best comparison! The styling has grown on me, in black, silver or now available pearl white tones it down a bit for more mature drivers.
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2nd One Ive Owned - 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By brentonlange - November 17 - 2:57 amThis is the 2nd Speed3 I have owned. The first one was a project car. This one will be a project car as well. The overall value is unbeatable. So what, the NAV screen is small...but you still have nav compared to other models. The price is amazing for a small sports car. So far I have not lost a redlight-to-redlight race yet against trucks, or other cars. What you may not know, this car is lighter than most and with 263HP stock, you can beat many people right off the line and keep your edge for the mile long run. Great car, will definatly buy another one unless Mazda screws it up (doubtful). I have bought three Mazdas in the past year, all have of them have been amazing!
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Simply Awesome! - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By Gary - November 12 - 1:33 amI have been researching this car since spring of 09 and just last week bought one...I have been smiling ever since! The engine is AWESOME. The appearance of the speed3 is certainly polarizing and it seems that you either love it or hate it. The pictures simply DO NOT do it justice, you have to see it in person. The acceleration is great, handling is crisp, stick takes getting used to but no problem and the brake feel is great. The tech package is worth it, GPS while small is still good, Bose system is not quite aftermarket quality but will please most people, bluetooth is cool, seats are comfortable and the space inside is nice. If you want bang for your buck...look no further! Zoom-Zoom!
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2010 Speed vs. GTI - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By Old Yeller - September 20 - 6:16 amTest 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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Unparalleled Fun - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
By bscanlan - May 25 - 11:36 pmJust 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 amTraded 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!