If you want a sporty performance vehicle with the reliability of a Mazda, the Mazdaspeed 3 sport compact hatchback is for you. Produced by Mazda’s in-house performance division Mazdaspeed between 2007 and 2013, the Mazdaspeed 3 is the performance-enhance version of the five-door Mazda 3. If you want to find a Mazdaspeed 3 for sale, check out Kijiji Autos.
The evolution of the Mazdaspeed 3
The Mazdaspeed started off as the last hot-hatch (or high-performance hatchback) built by Mazda. Between 2006-2009, front-wheel drive hot-hatches were popular. The Mazdaspeed 3 was made to compete with vehicles like the Golf GTI, Focus ST and the Honda Civic Type R. The Mazdaspeed 3 was produced in a regular, five-door, hatchback form. Small changes were the slightly risen hood that made room for the big intercooler, and a larger roof-spoiler in the back. The interior design was new, with sport-bucket seats, aluminum pedals and different dashboard colours.
The biggest change was the engine. It was turbocharged and produced 260 horsepower. There was a six-speed manual transmission and no automatic option. Between 2009-2013 the Mazdaspeed 3 kept a lot of Mazda 3’s exterior design while offering eye-catching details like pronounced wheel arches, a wider chassis that improved stability, and updated suspension and tires for added grip. The engine didn’t change, but its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions were reduced.
The Mazdaspeed 3 is fun to drive yet practical
The Mazdaspeed 3 is a high performer, yet affordable. You get the speed you want, but it still has five doors and practicality for daily driving. The 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 has an engine that puts out 263 horsepower. Enjoy the control of a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox that is linked up to a limited-slip differential. Kijiji Autos offers a large inventory to help you shop for a new and used Mazdaspeed 3 for sale.