Exterior
Although the regular Mazda3 comes as a sedan or a four-door, Mazda speed is only available in two volumes. Speed3 smiling grille is based on the regular grid pattern, but more exaggerated here, anchored in the lower air dam and front fenders flared. The hood has a big scoop to direct air to the intercooler top mounted machine. Exterior features include:
- Standard double tailpipes
- Standard rear spoiler
- Unique alloy wheels 18-inch
InternalMazdaspeed3 share of the overall design inside with a regular Mazda3, but red stitching accents, change the boot, steering wheel and seat fabric.
- The standard treatment for red door panels and seat rings
- LED turbo boost gauge between the speedometer and tachometer
Under the hoodFWD is the only propulsion system. The springs and dampers are firmer than they were a generation ago, and the steering rack is now set at three instead of two places, which should improve the information. Instead of going to the electric power steering, Mazda went with a power steering pump, but the conventional hydraulic assistance, improving the efficiency of the mechanical pump from the previous generation without sacrificing the direction of character. Mechanical features include:
- 263-horsepower, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that makes 280 pounds-feet of torque
- Six-speed manual transmission
Safety
Standard safety features include:
- Four-wheel disc ABS with Brake Assist
- Electronic stability control with traction control integrated
- Curtain airbags front, side and side
