Segment:
Compact Sport/Hot Hatch
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers seeking performance and handling in a practical package.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen GTI, Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (entry-level), Honda Civic Si.
Engine Performance:
Turbocharged 2.3L MZR DISI engine delivering strong torque and acceleration.
Handling:
Sport-tuned suspension, performance tires, and precise steering for excellent cornering ability.
Practicality:
Hatchback design offers versatility and cargo space.
Powertrain:
Engine (L3-VDT), Turbocharger, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual MTX-75)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Multi-link), Steering (Electric Power Assisted), Brakes (Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Solid Discs)
Electrical:
Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Infotainment
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Turbocharger Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Wiring Diagrams
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Component Dimensions, Electrical Schematics
Depth:
From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled, Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI)
Engine Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2261 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 94.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 valves, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Horsepower:
263 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection, Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Turbocharger Details:
Mitsubishi TD04-15G, Twin-Scroll Turbocharger with Intercooler
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Gear Ratios:
1st: 3.755, 2nd: 2.150, 3rd: 1.481, 4th: 1.151, 5th: 0.971, 6th: 0.794, Reverse: 3.400
Type:
N/A (Only Manual Available)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Single Dry Plate
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda GL-4 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
2.1 Liters (2.2 US Quarts)
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact:
5 Stars
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Brake Force Distribution:
Standard (EBD)
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side-Curtain Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) System
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with subwoofer (optional on some trims). CD player, AM/FM radio.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
Standard (TPMS)
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Using synthetic oil is highly recommended.
Engine Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Use high-quality iridium spark plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial: 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 7 years. Subsequent: 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Brake Fluid:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, Full Synthetic Recommended.
Coolant:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
High Pressure Fuel Pump (Hpfp):
Some early models experienced issues with the HPFP, leading to stalling or rough idling. Updates and proper maintenance are key.
Clutch Wear:
Aggressive driving can lead to accelerated clutch wear. Clutch replacement is a common repair.
Carbon Buildup:
Direct injection engines can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves. Regular intake valve cleaning or walnut blasting may be beneficial.
Motor Mounts:
Worn or broken motor mounts can cause excessive vibration and noise. Upgraded mounts are available for performance enthusiasts.
Mazda Motorsport:
Mazda has a rich heritage in motorsport, particularly with rotary engines, which informs their performance-oriented vehicles.
Generation 1:
The MazdaSpeed 3 (BK) was the first generation of the high-performance Mazda 3, launched in 2006 for the 2007 model year. It was a significant departure from the standard Mazda 3, featuring a powerful turbocharged engine and enhanced chassis.
Predecessor:
While not a direct predecessor, the Mazda 3 MPS (Mazda Performance Series) in other markets served the same purpose. The standard Mazda 3 (BK) was the base platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Production Years:
2007-2009 (for the BK generation MazdaSpeed 3)
Car And Driver 10Best:
While the standard Mazda 3 was a frequent entrant on Car and Driver's 10Best lists, the Mazdaspeed 3 was lauded for its performance, often earning praise in comparison tests.
Automotive Journalism:
Consistently reviewed positively for its engaging driving dynamics, powerful engine, and practical hatchback design.
