Reviewed by: Susan Frissell

“Always the soul of a sports car,” is Mazda’s theme and it makes its way into all their vehicles, from the too-much-fun Mazda Miata (MX5) to the Mazda5 minivan/CUV. The MazdaSpeed 3 sportswagon is no exception and while a blast to drive with its 6-speed manual transmission, this driver is not sure she would choose it as a daily driver. Beginning at $23,700, the 2011 MazdaSpeed 3 hatchback is not inexpensive, although not expensive. Clocked at 180 mph, this little buggy can move.

Blessed with an energetic personality, the MazdaSpeed 3 provides good handling, quiet interior and comfortable seating. Except for tire noise out on the road, the MazdaSpeed 3’s engine is very quiet at idle. The car is quick and agile and makes taking corners and moving in/out of traffic fun. This is indeed an enthusiast’s car, with a strong turbo performance. Reminiscent of its sibling the MX5 (Miata), the MazdaSpeed 3 feels like a solid car with a premium interior and hatchback utility.

Visibility can be somewhat compromised by the headrests of the passenger seat, and if you’re a lover of automatic transmissions, you’re out of luck. The MazdaSpeed 3 is available only in manual, as well it should be. The hatchback is the only version also, no sedan.

The MazdaSpeed 3 was redone in 2010; its rough edges honed-restyled, with an upgraded interior, the MS3 also got a retuned suspension, wider tires (225/40R18 vs 215/45-18). The 2.3-liter direct-injected turbo 4-cylinder is a carryover.With a weight increase of about 100 lbs., the MS3 has a 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds.

The MS3 does provide precise handling, and a little easier ride for the driver/passenger. Bumps, although still perceptible, are a little more removed than in the previous MS3. The interior is sporty, yet functional, and the seats comfortable. The MS3 feels like a sports car in many respects, even if it is a hatchback!

Standard equipment is plentiful and includes tilt and telescoping steering column, steering wheel audio/cruise/Bluetooth controls, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, unique combo cloth/leather seats and carpeted floor mats, dual zone auto climate control, power windows/door locks. Of course, safety features include ABS, remote keyless entry, EBD brake assist, “crashable” brake pedal, and Electronic power assisted rack and pinion steering, dynamic stability control, traction control and dual front airbags, side-impact airbags and curtains.

Seating for 5-passengers, the MS3 has sport-type F&R bumpers, hood, grille insert/trim side sills, AM/FM/CD/MP3, 6-speaker audio, two 12-volt power outlets, plenty of cupholders and handy pockets for stuff. The center console slides to/fro.

This is a fun vehicle to drive for the enthusiast, yet, still is practical with its’ hatchback utility. With all the amenities you’d need, the MS3 is a good value with a lot to offer.

Specs:

MSRP: 23,340; total vehicle price $24,520; destination $750

Engine: 2.3-lier DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder turbocharged & intercooled Direct-Injection-Spark, 280 ft-lbs.torque

Transmission: 6-speed manual, FWD

Wheelbase: 103.9 in.

Length: 177.6 in.

Width: 69.7 in.

Height: 57.5 in.

EPA Fuel Ecnomy: 18/25 mpg.

Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gal.

Tires: P225/40R18 884 performance

Wheels: Alloy, 18×7.5

Warranty: 24-hour roadside assistance, 36-month/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper, 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain.