[Victor.L3IchibanM3]

The MAZDASPEED3 is one of the quickest front-wheel-drive cars available in the U.S"



by Perry Stern

Mazda builds one of the quickest front-wheel-drive cars available in America.
MAZDASPEED3 will be available in four different colors when it arrives in showrooms this fall. This MAZDASPEED3 was accessorized using genuine Mazda parts. The MAZDASPEED3 feels right at home at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.
Mazda will only build the MAZDASPEED3 in the hatchback body style.
The driver has a clear view of the gauges as well as the optional navigation system.

Aluminum pedals add to the sporty interior of the MAZDASPEED3.
Under the hood of the MAZDASPEED3 is a 2.3-liter direct-injection turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing an impressive 263 horsepower.
The MAZDASPEED3 is differentiated from the standard Mazda3 by unique wheels, side skirts and bulging hood.Mazda is selling two different MAZDASPEED models at the same time: MAZDASPEED3 (in red) and MAZDASPEED6. MAZDASPEED3 uses the same smooth-shifting 6-speed manual transmission found in the MAZDASPEED6.Seats feature red stitching and side bolsters for support during cornering.

A few years ago Mazda brought the sporty Mazda3 to America to replace the aging Protege small car, and it became an immediate hit for the Japan-based automaker. Even today, dealer inventory for the Mazda3 line is often limited, with these small sedans and hatchbacks rolling off lots without any incentives to boost sales. An entry-level car with superb handling for its class, the Mazda3 often gets described as a car that could use a little more power. Enter the MAZDASPEED3.

"The MAZDASPEED3 is a pure enthusiast's dream, made for the performance buyer who wants it all for a price that doesn't take it all," said Tatsuo Maeda, program manager for development of the MAZDA3 series. "Sport-tuned exhaust, turbocharged motor, MAZDASPEED sport independent suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, unique roof spoiler, sport-inspired interior—the MAZDASPEED3 delivers a true driver's car."

While discussing the MAZDASPEED3 with automotive journalists at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in California, Maeda referred to the new model as his "wild child."

Three goals for the MAZDASPEED3 were set by Maeda during development of this new model: driving fun, ownership delight, and everyday, user-friendly convenience.

About MAZDASPEED
MAZDASPEED is the performance arm of Mazda designed to promote speed and personalization for vehicles through three separate avenues: high-performance road cars, aftermarket performance accessories and worldwide motorsports.

MAZDASPEED first appeared in America when Mazda introduced the turbocharged 2003 MAZDASPEED Protege. The car quickly achieved cult status among Mazda enthusiasts, and was followed a year later by the MAZDASPEED MX-5 Miata. Both cars boasted turbocharged engines with increases of more than 40 horsepower, with upgraded handling over the standard models.

Last year Mazda brought its most powerful MAZDASPEED model to America—the MAZDASPEED6. This high-performance sedan features all-wheel drive, a 6-speed manual transmission and a 274-horsepower turbocharged engine.

For 2007 Mazda will, for the first time, sell two different MAZDASPEED models at once when the MAZDASPEED3 joins this elite group of high-performance cars.

Performance
The MAZDASPEED3 carries on the brand's performance reputation as one of the most powerful front-wheel-drive models on the market. Under the hood sits Mazda's MZR 2.3-liter direct-injection turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that also powers the MAZDASPEED6 and the new CX-7 crossover SUV.

Output is 263 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque for the MAZDASPEED3— a big jump over the 156 horsepower in the standard Mazda3. Peak torque occurs at a low 3000 rpm. This impressive power gets transferred to the wheels via the same 6-speed manual transmission used in the MAZDASPEED6.

The additional power does not come without a price. Fuel economy in the standard Mazda3 5-door comes in at 26 mpg city and 33 mpg on the highway. Not quite as economical, the MAZDASPEED still achieves a respectable 20/28 city/highway rating.

But the extra power is pointless unless it can be put to the pavement in a controlled fashion—263 horsepower coming through the front wheels can be a difficult thing to harness.

Mazda has done an impressive job making that power completely usable. First, to eliminate torque spikes from the turbocharger the powertrain control module (PCM) releases some of the boost in first and second gear, only allowing full boost beyond second gear. The drive-by-wire system can also be used to smooth driver inputs, further eliminating torque spikes.

Steering angle will also affect the level of torque by limiting power when the wheels are turned. The limited-slip differential also minimizes wheel slippage during hard cornering.

While all this sounds very complex (and it is), this power management is completely invisible to drivers. We drove the car before learning exactly how the torque gets managed, and we were unaware of the technology working on our behalf.

More Enhancements
But just adding power does not make a Mazda3 a MAZDASPEED3.

The car gets reinforced in a number of places, including a beefier front cowl joined directly to the top section of the front damper mount, which in effect reinforces the strut towers. Underneath, a large brace reinforces the floor tunnel to improve the body's torsional rigidity. Rear suspension towers are strengthened, too. All this, combined with a larger stabilizer bar, increases roll stiffness by 60 percent while adding only 15 additional pounds.

The MAZDASPEED3 rides about 10 millimeters lower than the standard Mazda3. Suspension and damping force have also been tuned for performance. Brakes are larger as well, with 12.6 inch front ventilated discs and 11 inch solid discs in the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) are standard.

Styling
In keeping with other MAZDASPEED models, the MAZDASPEED3's styling would have to be described as stealthy. Only a few cues differentiate the car from a standard Mazda3, and typically only those "in the know" will ever notice.

For those looking to tell the high-performance MAZDASPEED3 from its lesser-powered siblings, watch for the bolder fender flares and an integrated rear spoiler. The hood features bold lines that flow from the upper part of the grille, which also acts as an air intake for the turbo's intercooler. Side skirts and 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels add to the sporty yet understated styling.

Four colors are available - red, silver, black and a Cosmic Blue, which was designed specifically for the MAZDASPEED3.

Inside are black sport seats styled with red stitching. The stitching is also found on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift boot. Aluminum pedals and stainless-steel scuff plates add to the sporty look.

Mazda will only offer the MAZDASPEED3 as a 4-door hatchback. This decision was based in part on feedback from buyers of the MAZDASPEED Protege, which was only available as a sedan.

Versatile on the Road, at the Track
We had the chance to drive the MAZDASPEED3 on roads around Monterey, California, and on the track at Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. On public roads the ride is firm but not jarring. Under hard acceleration there is a bit of torque steer, but not what you'd expect from a front-driver with 263 horsepower.

According to Mazda, the MAZDASPEED3 will reach 60 mph in less than 6 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Acceleration is strong from a standstill, and the stability control system does allow a bit of wheelspin. During passing maneuvers the car really shines: drop it into 3rd gear at 55mph and it takes off like a shot, with very little turbo lag.

With the MAZDASPEED3 it's not only about the speed but also the handling. Hard cornering induces little body roll, and the limited-slip differential keeps power to the pavement. The car feels quite nimble and lightweight. Given its power-to-weight ratio of 11 pounds per horsepower, this comes as no big surprise.

On the track we had similar results. Braking remained strong throughout our lapping session, and the MAZDASPEED3 proved easy to drive at high speeds.

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the MAZDASPEED3 is not in the performance or handling, but rather in the utility and versatility. The rear seat comfortably accommodates two adults, although three could squeeze in for a short trip. With the rear seats folded there's more than 43 cubic feet of cargo space available.

Accessorizing
For those who aren't satisfied with a stock MAZDASPEED3, there are plenty of parts available from Mazda that can enhance style, handling or power.

"Our objective with the Mazda Accessories program is to provide products that actually enhance the driving experience for Mazda customers," said Jack Stavana, director of accessory operations for Mazda North America. "Mazda drivers are young and passionate, and Mazda accessories provide them with the means of expressing their enthusiasm on their vehicle."

To illustrate some of the customizing that can be done to a MAZDASPEED3, Stavana had a special MAZDASPEED3 at the track, outfitted with suspension upgrades, new wheels and a cold air intake. Stavana said the cold air intake adds about 30 horsepower, with virtually no increase in emissions. And, as with all other genuine Mazda accessories, the alterations are all covered by the factory warranty.

We drove this customized car on the track and were extremely impressed. With the additional power and firmer suspension, we were going into turns as much as 20 mph faster than with the unaltered MAZDASPEED3. The suspension would probably provide a rough ride on the street, but on track it felt superb.

Stavana said that prices had not been finalized yet for these parts, but he estimated that the changes made to his car were valued around $2,500. The cold air intake alone is under $1,000, which means you could have a MAZDASPEED3 with almost 300 horsepower for under $25,000! Which brings us to the best part.

Incredible Value
The MAZDASPEED3 starts at $22,240 (not including a destination charge of $595.00). This price point includes the 263-horsepower turbocharged engine, a limited-slip differential, 18-inch alloy wheels, high-performance tires, automatic climate control, unique black with red accent interior trim and a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system.

For $1,755 more the MAZDASPEED3 GT adds Xenon HID headlights, a Bose 222-watt premium audio system, a trip computer and leather seats.

A total of 12,000 MAZDASPEED3s will be built for 2007 model year, with 5,000 of those coming to America. We expect these to go fast—off showroom floors and down the road.

[Nikki]

I wasn't a fan of the way the 3 drove, doubt I'd be too impressed by this one either. I'd much rather have a Ciciv Si, even if it is slower. BTW we have a general automotive section for non-e90 related posts.

[mpimping]

SPAM?

[StewtheBassman]

Looks like a blast of a car to drive!

[DFW_M]

Originally Posted by mpimping

SPAM?

How can you call Victor a SPAM???!!! Shame on you

[StewtheBassman]

I have my doubts about Victor MOST of the time, but anyone who is thrilled by the new Mazda is okay with me.

[Gearcraft]

Originally Posted by dr325i

How can you call Victor a SPAM???!!! Shame on you

yeah. shame on you. J/K lol.

he makes a huge percentage of fun in the off-topic forums.

Originally Posted by StewtheBassman

I have my doubts about Victor MOST of the time, but anyone who is thrilled by the new Mazda is okay with me.

and i thought he was an anti-japanese car guy when he just came here in the forums.

[Victor.L3IchibanM3]

Originally Posted by Gearcraft

yeah. shame on you. J/K lol.

he makes a huge percentage of fun in the off-topic forums.



and i thought he was an anti-japanese car guy when he just came here in the forums.

Thanks Guyz

[BMW F22]

wow that sounds like a steal to me. Mazda cars handle pretty well. When is the 1 series coming??

[ALPINE6SPD]

Originally Posted by Nikki

I wasn't a fan of the way the 3 drove, doubt I'd be too impressed by this one either. I'd much rather have a Ciciv Si, even if it is slower. BTW we have a general automotive section for non-e90 related posts.

check out the new car mags because it actually handles better than the SI.

[John]

altima ser would smoke it

but the point is, nobody on this forum would care :/
just like people on mazda forums dont care about the all-new 328

[StewtheBassman]

But the Altima is more competition for the Mazda 6 (not the 3), no? Different weight, size, price etc.....

[canucklion]

the SE-R would compete more with the speed6

Originally Posted by StewtheBassman

But the Altima is more competition for the Mazda 6 (not the 3), no? Different weight, size, price etc.....

[canucklion]

I would dare to say he makes 100% of it

Originally Posted by Gearcraft

he makes a huge percentage of fun in the off-topic forums.

[Gearcraft]

Originally Posted by canucklion

I would dare to say he makes 100% of it

lets give credit to the other teenagers too. lol.

[StewtheBassman]

Originally Posted by canucklion

the SE-R would compete more with the speed6

That's what I meant. And the Subaru Legacy GT....I had one.

List of fast cars I don't want:

Mazdaspeed 6
Subaru Legacy GT
Altima whatever
Toyota anything
Honda anything

List of fast (junky) cars I lust for:
Hemi anything, especially SRT
Mustang, GT or above
335i, or any M above (not junky)
STi (sorta trashy but fun anyway)
Corvette

[whippersnapper]

victor is a bot

[uhaulball]

Originally Posted by John

altima ser would smoke it

but the point is, nobody on this forum would care :/
just like people on mazda forums dont care about the all-new 328

actually i was looking at this car (nto as in buying though). i love every part of the new mazdaspeed 3. looks very nice and performs very well for a 20k car.

[mmm def]

Legacy GT = meh

[BMW0]

Originally Posted by Nikki

I wasn't a fan of the way the 3 drove, doubt I'd be too impressed by this one either. I'd much rather have a Ciciv Si, even if it is slower. BTW we have a general automotive section for non-e90 related posts.

I would like to try out the Ciciv Si too.

[voltron1011]

Originally Posted by StewtheBassman

That's what I meant. And the Subaru Legacy GT....I had one.

List of fast cars I don't want:

Mazdaspeed 6
Subaru Legacy GT
Altima whatever
Toyota anything
Honda anything

List of fast (junky) cars I lust for:
Hemi anything, especially SRT
Mustang, GT or above
335i, or any M above (not junky)
STi (sorta trashy but fun anyway)
Corvette

I agree with you, Stew... I test drove a 300c and Charger R/T and I was VERY impressed.... I might pick up a 3 year old one for about 10 grand (thanks to Chrysler's superior residual values ).
Also, you need to add the new Holden SSV (new Pontiac G8) to your list... Me likey.

[StewtheBassman]

That is the true for the residual of those lovely BIG cars!!

Wow, you know, I'm starting to realize that I really like my E90 and that I may try and keep it for a couple of years, e.g. 250,000kms or 5 years...

That would place me straight into Model Year 2010....

Can anyone say Camaro or Challenger?????