Though this platform is not really anything relatively new to our community, being behind the wheel of the Speed3 was definitely a first time experience for me personally, and I’ll be the first to admit that the hatch definitely has an unexpected kick! The Two.3L DOHC DISI turbo 4-cyclinder engine produces 263hp along with a whopping 280 lb-ft of torque for a full on exhilarating driving experience. As expected, with this much power on the FWD platform, a bit of torque steer definitely comes into play upon maximum acceleration, yet, by using a quick toggle of the traction control button, the issue is significantly reduced. Whether cruising through the city streets or zipping through traffic about the freeway, the stiff/sporty suspension proved to be over responsive throughout the hairiest conditions of day-to-day travel and nighttime journeys. Aside from the vicious stock power plant as well as the sporty drive of the vehicle, I was actually surprised regarding how much room this sport compact needed to offer. With a fifth door hatch and fold-down rear seatback, the Speed3 can accommodate greater than a hefty load without reaching into the sporty front end of the interior or uncomfortably cramping the cabin. For a more realistic notion of the space the Speed3 is offering, lets just say, I may, or might not have used the vehicle to help move apartments on the weekend. With a reachable MSRP, updated sporty styling along with an endless selection of aftermarket options, the Mazdaspeed3 is over a viable option for anyone trying to dive into the sport compact scene.
That New Car Smell
2013 Mazda Speed3
The Sticker Pricing from MSRP $24,200
Engine 2.3L DISI turbocharged 4-cylinder
Transmission 6-speed manual
The Strength 263hp at 5500rpm; 280 lb-ft at 3000rpm
Layout Front engine, front-wheel-drive
Wheels & Tires 18 alloy wheels with 225/40R18 tires
At the Pump 18/25 mpg (city/highway)
Deep Thoughts If the AWD Speed3 platform were to ever emerge, it’d be game over. Immediately.