2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 in Kennewick, WA - $5,998

Kicking things up a notch, Mazda originally introduced the MAZDASPEED3 hatchback back in 2007. Updates for the 2010 model year blended the MAZDASPEED3 and the five-door functionality of then all-new MAZDA3 5-Door with bolder, more aggressive styling and exhilarating performance to meet the needs of driving enthusiasts with active lifestyles.

The design of the MAZDASPEED3 evolves the model's visual identity to create a sportier, more aggressive appearance. The result is a more emotional design that takes the sporty, agile nature of the MAZDA3 5-Door to a higher level. The MAZDASPEED3 is easily distinguished from its siblings. Start at the front, where a lower air dam and round fog lights frame an organic, metallic-black grille. The hood houses a functional intercooler scoop to improve charge air cooling, and the front fenders are flared to contain the car's wider tires.

From the side view, the 18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheel design is unique, but modeled closely on the deeply sculpted, expressive, and very lightweight 19-inch forged wheels on the RX-8 R3. Sculpted side skirts and a lower stance also give away the MAZDASPEED3's sinister motives. From the rear, larger dual exhaust tips, a rear valance painted the same metallic color as the grille, and a larger, roof-mounted rear wing give it away.

The MAZDASPEED3 is propelled by a turbocharged MZR 2.3L four-cylinder powerplant featuring Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI). Torque is communicated to the street through the standard six-speed manual gearbox and a torque sensing limited slip differential.

The MAZDASPEED3's impressive handling and control attributes can be traced to the vehicle's robust underpinnings that allow Mazda engineers to optimize the suspension setup for both road holding control and a comfortable ride. The MAZDASPEED3's body shell benefits from a focused effort at strengthening the most important parts of the structure. The use of high-strength and ultra-high strength steel in the safety structures like bumpers and side impact beams has nearly doubled, making these areas both stronger and lighter. The suspension mounting points all gain rigidity from the use of thicker sheet metal in high-stress areas and extensive use of weld bonding, a hybrid joining technique combining conventional spot welds with structural adhesives. Torsional stiffness around the rear suspension mounts is improved roughly two percent, while deflection around the rear liftgate is reduced nearly 40 percent.

In general, a stiffer structure allows firmer suspension tuning without compromising ride comfort. In the case of the MAZDASPEED3, a firmer suspension was accomplished with stiffer springs, higher damping rates, and revised mounting points for the front stabilizer bar that reduce bushing deflection and increase the bar's effectiveness. Combined with wider, higher-grip 225/40R18 Dunlop SP Sport 2050 performance tires, the MAZDASPEED3's suspension tuning marries unflappable control with a comfortable everyday ride.

Inside the cabin the MAZDASPEED3 benefits from engineering that produced a roomy cabin that is both upscale and sophisticated. The placement, touch, feel and operation of displays, controls and switches was purposely considered and designed.

Nagare-inspired design defines the cabin, which features color coordination and materials chosen to excite the driver and passengers every time they take a seat. Black is the keynote color employed throughout the interior, while the seats and trim fabric have an organic red graphic design. This MAZDASPEED3-exclusive design is distributed throughout, with red stitching enhancing the sporty interior character on the steering wheel, seats, door trim, shift lever boot, and center armrest.

The dashboard of the MAZDASPEED3 is designed to give a roomy feel while displaying critical information up high and deep into the dashboard, closer to the driver's field of vision and focal point. The instrument cluster for the MAZDASPEED3 also includes a LED turbo boost gauge positioned between the meters.

The rear seat is a very hospitable place for adults -- something not usually said about vehicles in this market segment. The standard 60/40 split folding rear seat adds space to the good-sized, well shaped cargo area.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 103.9; overall length: 177.6; width: 69.7; height: 57.5

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 263 hp at 5,500 rpm and 280 lbs-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed manual

EPA Fuel Economy: 18 city/25 highway

Cargo capacity: 42.8 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, dynamic stability control, limited-slip differential, side-impact door beams, Bluetooth hands free phone system, fog lights, tire pressure monitoring system, remote keyless entry, engine immobilizer, and automatic power door locks.

Optional safety features add: E911 automatic emergency notification, alarm system, blind spot monitoring system, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start system, navigation system, automatic Xenon high-intensity discharge adaptive front headlights, HomeLink universal garage door opener, first aid kit, roadside assistance kit, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2013 MAZDASPEED3 hatchback starts from $24,200. Destination charges add $795.