Segment:
Compact Performance Hatchback
Target Market:
Enthusiast drivers seeking spirited performance in a practical package
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen GTI, Subaru WRX, Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
Engine:
Direct-injection, turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder
Drivetrain:
Sport-tuned FWD with Torque-Steer Reduction System (TSRS)
Suspension:
Performance-tuned suspension geometry
Aerodynamics:
Functional aerodynamic enhancements (hood scoop, rear spoiler)
Interior:
Sport seats, performance gauges, unique trim
Engine:
MZR DISI Turbo L3-VDT (2.3L)
Engine Management:
ECU, sensors, actuators, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control (PZEV/LEV2)
Transmission:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (M-S8)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Multi-Link Independent
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Discs (Large Calipers), Rear: Solid Discs, ABS, EBD
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays
Body:
Chassis, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, cabin filter
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS, immobilizer
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, trouble codes (DTCs)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid
Troubleshooting:
Component diagnosis, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, electrical, bodywork
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for major components
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Mazda tools
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex diagnostics)
Diagnostic Coverage:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Turbocharged, Direct Injection
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2261 cc)
Horsepower:
263 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 94.0 mm
Induction:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection with direct injection assist
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Turbocharger:
Hitachi HT06-23, Intercooled
Emissions Compliance:
PZEV (Partial Zero Emission Vehicle) / LEV2
Gear Ratios:
1st: 3.307, 2nd: 1.947, 3rd: 1.310, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.761, 6th: 0.613, Reverse: 3.333
Differential:
Helical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda genuine or equivalent, consult manual for specific viscosity)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test:
5-Star
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (Standard)
Traction Control:
Standard
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with TCS (Traction Control System) - Standard
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Immobilizer:
Standard engine immobilizer system
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with 6-disc CD changer, SiriusXM satellite radio (optional).
Display:
Multi-information display (MID) in instrument cluster, climate control display.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Remote keyless entry system.
Bluetooth:
Available (dealer-installed or option on some trims).
Usb Aux:
Available auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles under ideal conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 75,000 miles (platinum tipped).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000 miles or 48 months.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months or as needed based on inspection.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SM or ILSAC GF-4 or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.1 US quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent (pre-mixed 50/50 ethylene glycol-based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine ATF J or equivalent.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and harshness.
Clutch Wear:
Some early models may experience accelerated clutch wear, particularly with aggressive driving.
Hpfp Issues:
High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failures have been reported in some DISI engines, though more prevalent in later generations.
Carbon Buildup:
Direct injection engines can be susceptible to intake valve carbon buildup, requiring periodic cleaning (e.g., walnut blasting).
Turbocharger Reliability:
While generally robust, turbocharger seals or wastegate issues can arise, often linked to maintenance or abuse.
Torque Steer:
Despite the TSRS, significant torque steer can still be present under hard acceleration; the manual details its operation.
Mazda Performance Heritage:
Mazda's long history of building engaging and sporty driver's cars, exemplified by the MX-5 Miata and rotary-powered RX series.
Mazda3 Performance Variant:
The Mazdaspeed3 was introduced as the high-performance variant of the Mazda3 compact car, focusing on turbocharged power and athletic handling.
1St Generation Introduction:
The first generation Mazdaspeed3 was launched for the 2007 model year and continued through 2009. The 2008 model year represents a refinement of this initial design.
Assembly Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan
Production Years:
2007-2009 (First Generation)
Car And Driver 10Best:
Mazdaspeed3 was a frequent contender and recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list for its segment.
Motortrend Awards:
Received positive reviews and accolades from MotorTrend for its performance-oriented nature.
Overall Performance Reviews:
Consistently praised for its powerful engine, agile handling, and practical hatchback design.
