Auto Trends

…A 2007 MazdaSpeed3 that is.

With the enthusiast talk of the rival Subaru WRX and Mitsubishi EVO IX, it is easy to see how the Mazdaspeed3 could easily be forgotten and therefore underestimated on the streets.

The MazdaSpeed3 is based off of the “cheaper” Mazda3, but there are many improvements to like about this new Mazda performance vehicle and one of those is undoubtedly the stout little 2.3 DOHC turbo charged engine. The engine is reported to put down no less than 260 horsepower and many reviewers claim that upon the first drive, the purported 260 hp seemed just too low in comparison to their “seat-of-the-pants” estimation.

If there is anything that can be said against the new MazdaSpeed3 in comparison to its rivals, is that it is not AWD (All Wheel Drive). Mazda obviously knew this downfall and in its place prescribed a sophisticated boost controller that is capable of limiting the turbo’s potential during moments of acceleration to keep its traction.

In laymen terms, this means that the typical torque steer associated with high output front wheel drive cars is vastly reduced and even more importantly, in poor weather it should be able to hold its own in the traction department.

With all this talk of performance and horsepower it is also easy to downplay the fact that this Mazda should be capable of 30 mpg in normal driving situations. Thanks to its 1,500 psi direct injection and six-speed transmission, this Mazda can not only smoke most cars on the road today, but it can also rival their economy and emissions too.

On the artistic side of the MazdaSpeed3 it is quite improved upon the more boring base 3. It features 18-inch rims, an updated and functional body kit, and performance styles hood and rear wing. Functional and beautiful… two words that can hardly ever be used when talking about a performance car for under $25,000.

Performance Powertrain Specifications as reported by Mazda:

Engine: 2.3L DOHC intercooled 4-cylinder (263 horsepower)
-241 hp and 255 lbs torque to the wheels, as reported by Turbo & High-Tech Performance

Performance: 0-60 mph: N/A
Standing 1/4 mile: 14 seconds
Top Speed: 155 mph