Intro: Wedged-and-creased body panels, a wide-mouth grille, a functional hood scoop, and all-around fierce styling announce the arrival of the 2011 Mazdaspeed3 sport-compact hatchback. The performance brother to the 5-passenger Mazda3, the Mazdaspeed3 is much more than just a looker.
Performance upgrades such as a Mazdaspeed-tuned suspension, front-and-rear stabilizer bars, Mazda speed-tuned exhaust system and the standard limited-slip differential that minimizes wheel spin on the inside wheel of a turn, all combine to make the Mazdaspeed3 a formidable handler.
The Mazdaspeed3 is available in one trim, and comes standard with halogen fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, high-performance Y-rated summer tires, and a large rear spoiler.
Performance: The Mazdaspeed3 comes equipped with a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4, sending 263 horsepower and 280 pound feet of torque to the front wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission. This combination helps the Mazdaspeed3 get from zero to sixty in just 6.3 seconds.
Fuel Economy: Fuel economy for the Mazdaspeed3 is as follows:
Features: While drivers may fawn over its performance credentials, the Mazdaspeed3 also boasts impressive creature comforts, starting with the bold leather trimmed interior with red cloth inlays. Base equipment includes the Bluetooth hands free communication system, and a 6-speaker CD/MP3 stereo.
We suggest opting for the Tech Package, which upgrades the stereo to a Bose 265-watt 6-disc changer 10-speaker sound system and a 6-month subscription to SIRIUS satellite radio. This option package also adds a navigation system, and all of these functions are operated via the standard multifunction steering wheel.
Safety: Standard safety features include 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, dynamic stability control, traction control, side-impact door beams, collapsible steering column and brake pedal, and front and side impact airbags.
Pricing: Base MSRP for the 2011 Mazdaspeed3 is $23,700 in its lone trim.
Warranty: All Mazda's are backed by a 5-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Summary: The Mazdaspeed3 will satisfy the thrill-seeking sports-compact customer with aggressive styling, a potent turbocharged engine, and an accommodating interior packed with standard features. (2:33)