Segment:
Compact Performance Hatchback
Competitors:
Volkswagen GTI, Subaru Impreza WRX, Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
Engine Type:
Turbocharged Direct Injection (DISI)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) with Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
Suspension Tuning:
Performance-oriented, stiffened suspension for improved handling
Styling:
Aggressive body kit, large rear spoiler, hood scoop
Engine Mechanical:
Complete rebuild, timing, lubrication, cooling, intake, exhaust
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, ECU diagnostics, sensors, actuators
Transmission:
Manual transmission (GFT), clutch, driveline, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, glass, chassis structure, interior trim
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, restraint systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC code interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repairs, system adjustments
Rebuilds:
Engine, transmission, and major component overhaul procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, tolerances
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Factory-level diagnostic procedures and repair specifications
Engine Name:
MZR DISI Turbo (L3-VDT)
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 94.0 mm
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 16 valves (4 per cylinder), Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Horsepower:
263 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Induction:
Turbocharged, Direct Injection (DISI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD04-15T (or similar) with intercooler
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (GFT)
Clutch:
Hydraulic, Dry Single Plate
Type:
N/A (Only Manual Available)
Limited Slip Differential:
Standard (Helical Type)
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: ~3.667, 2nd: ~2.130, 3rd: ~1.517, 4th: ~1.161, 5th: ~0.972, 6th: ~0.780)
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine GL-4 75W-90)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
4 Stars
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4 Stars
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Head Restraints:
Active front head restraints
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, often with auxiliary input. Optional premium audio available.
Display:
Multi-information display integrated into the dashboard. Some models may have an optional navigation screen.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Some models may be equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system available on some trims.
Usb Aux:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack. USB may be an option on later builds or with specific packages.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) (typically Iridium type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years (manual transmission).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 0W-20 (API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.0 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine FL22 Antifreeze (or equivalent P-HOAT type).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or DEXRON III/Mercon equivalent, check manual)
Clutch Wear:
Some owners report faster clutch wear compared to the standard Mazda3 due to increased torque and aggressive driving.
Carbon Buildup:
Direct injection engines can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves; regular cleaning may be beneficial.
Fuel Pump Recall:
Certain 2007-2011 Mazda models, including some Speed3s, were subject to fuel pump recalls.
Engine Mounts:
Aggressive driving can lead to premature wear of engine and transmission mounts.
Brand Focus:
Mazda has a long history of producing engaging driving vehicles, often prioritizing handling and driver feedback.
First Generation:
The first generation MazdaSpeed3 (BK platform) was introduced for the 2007 model year in North America, building upon the standard Mazda3 platform.
Key Upgrades For Ms3:
Significantly upgraded engine, stiffer chassis, revised suspension, performance brakes, and a unique body kit.
Manufacturing Plant:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan (for most markets)
Production Years For Gen1:
2007-2009
Car And Driver 10Best:
While not directly awarded in 2007, the standard Mazda3 was a frequent recipient, and the Speed3 was critically acclaimed for its performance in its class.
Motor Trend:
The MazdaSpeed3 was highly regarded by automotive journalists for its blend of performance, practicality, and value.
Overall Reception:
Generally received positive reviews for its powerful engine, sharp handling, and practicality.
