Category:
Compact Performance Hatchback / Sport Compact
Description:
The MazdaSpeed3 (or Mazdaspeed 3) was the high-performance variant of Mazda's mainstream compact car, the Mazda3. It was positioned as a potent and engaging driver's car with a focus on turbocharged power and sporty handling.
Competitors:
Subaru WRX, Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
Performance Focus:
Emphasized its turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and aggressive styling.
Driver Engagement:
Renowned for its communicative steering and engaging driving dynamics, often praised for its 'feel' on the road.
Powertrain:
Engine, Drivetrain, Transmission, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Doors, Locks, Body Repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Definitions and Procedures, Component Testing
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics, Component Dimensions
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures for professional technicians.
Engine Code:
MZR DISI Turbo (L3-VDT)
Configuration:
Inline-4, turbocharged, front-wheel drive
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2261 cc)
Horsepower:
263 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Induction:
Direct Injection (DISI), Turbocharged
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Extended Life Antifreeze (or equivalent)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 standards)
Oil Capacity:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter change
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
N/A (Manual transmission was standard)
Clutch:
Hydraulic, multi-plate dry clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios detailed in the manual.
Fluid Type:
Mazda GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid (or equivalent)
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 Liters)
Length:
177.1 in (4498 mm)
Height:
57.7 in (1466 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.7 in (2659 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,175 lbs (1,440 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not readily available, consult manual for specific GVWR
Cargo Volume:
21.4 cu ft (with rear seats up)
Wheel Size:
18 x 7.5 inch alloy wheels
Tire Size:
225/40R18 performance tires
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inch)
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
5-star driver, 5-star passenger
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Brake Bias System:
EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Head Unit:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Optional Bose premium audio system.
Display:
Basic LCD display for audio and climate controls.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring:
Not standard on all trims; consult manual for specific TPMS system details.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on type (consult manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF Type T-IV or equivalent
Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Turbocharger Issues:
Early models could experience turbocharger failure if oil maintenance was neglected. Clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving.
Fuel Pump Recall:
Potential recall or service campaign related to the fuel pump may exist; manual will detail diagnostic procedures.
Clutch Actuator:
Potential for wear or failure in the clutch release bearing/actuator assembly.
Focus:
Mazda's history of producing sporty, driver-focused vehicles (e.g., RX-7, Miata) informed the development of the Mazdaspeed models.
Generation:
First Generation (BK) Mazdaspeed3
Introduction Year:
2006 (in some markets, US 2007 model year)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Mazda's Hofu Plant)
Production Years:
2006-2009
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The base Mazda3 (on which the Speed3 is based) was a frequent nominee and winner on Car and Driver's 10Best list in its time, highlighting its chassis dynamics.
Motor Trend Performance:
Praised for its strong performance and value proposition in the sport compact segment.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with EPA and CARB emissions standards for the model year; manual will contain specific emissions-related information.
