Segment:
Compact Sport/Performance Hatchback
Positioning:
Mazda's performance-oriented variant of the mainstream Mazda3, offering a potent blend of turbocharged power, agile handling, and practical hatchback utility.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen GTI, Subaru Impreza WRX, Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.
Engine:
2.3L MZR DISI Turbocharged Inline-4
Transmission:
Standard 6-speed Manual Transmission
Suspension:
Performance-tuned suspension with front strut tower brace for enhanced chassis rigidity.
Styling:
Aggressive styling cues including a functional hood scoop, unique front grille, aerodynamic body kit, and larger alloy wheels.
Brakes:
Upgraded braking system with larger front discs and performance brake pads.
Powertrain:
Engine (L3-VDT), Turbocharger System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD), Clutch System, Manual Transmission (MTX)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear, ABS)
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Audio System, SRS (Airbag) System, Immobilizer
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Climate Control System (HVAC), Safety Restraint System (SRS)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing, Wiring Diagrams
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Turbocharger Rebuild, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper Service, Electrical Component Repair
Installation Adjustment:
Component Installation (e.g., Turbocharger, Alternator), Suspension Alignment, Clutch Adjustment, Wheel Bearing Replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks and filter changes to full engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnosis and component-level repair.
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (MTX)
Transmission Type:
N/A (Only manual offered for Speed3)
Drivetrain Layout:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated, Multi-Plate Clutch
Limited Slip Differential:
Standard (Helical type)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Front Airbags (Driver & Passenger), Side-Impact Airbags, Curtain Airbags (Front & Rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters
Body Structure:
Mazda's Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption System (MAIDAS) Body Structure
Audio System:
Bose Premium Audio System (optional, typically 7-speaker with subwoofer)
Display:
Multi-function display in dashboard for trip computer, audio, climate, and vehicle settings. No central color touchscreen on this generation.
Connectivity:
MP3 CD Player, Auxiliary Audio Input (standard on most trims), Bluetooth Hands-Free (optional).
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control
Keyless Entry:
Standard Keyless Entry
Push Button Start:
Optional Push Button Start with Keyless Access System
HVAC System:
Manual Climate Control (standard) or Automatic Climate Control (optional)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 75,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Coolant Flush:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years for the first replacement, then every 75,000 miles or 5 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.9 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (or equivalent meeting Mazda specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
2.0 US quarts (1.9 Liters)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent, pre-mixed 50/50 solution with distilled water.
Coolant Capacity:
7.6 US quarts (7.2 Liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS 116 DOT 3 (DOT 4 is often acceptable but check manual for specifics).
High Pressure Fuel Pump:
Potential wear on the cam follower of the high-pressure fuel pump, leading to 'pump tick' or eventual failure. Requires replacement of follower and potentially the pump.
Engine Mounts:
Stock engine mounts can be overly soft for the torque output, leading to excessive engine movement and potential vibration or harshness under acceleration.
Clutch Wear:
Due to the high torque, clutch wear can be accelerated, especially with aggressive driving. Clutch chatter or slipping can be indicators.
Turbocharger Oil Lines:
Risk of oil coking in the turbocharger oil feed line if the engine is shut off immediately after hard driving. Regular oil changes and allowing the turbo to cool down are recommended.
Interior Rattles:
Some owners report interior rattles and squeaks, common in many performance-oriented vehicles. Sound deadening can help.
Brand Focus:
Mazda is known for its 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy, emphasizing driving enjoyment, innovative technology, and sporty design.
Mazdaspeed Lineage:
The MazdaSpeed moniker signifies Mazda's performance division, previously applied to models like the Protege Mazdaspeed and Miata Mazdaspeed.
Mazda3 Generation 1 Debut:
The first generation Mazda3 (BK) debuted for the 2004 model year, replacing the Protege. The Mazdaspeed3 variant was introduced for 2007.
Production Plant:
Hatsudai Plant, Japan (primary)
Production Years:
2007-2009
Car And Driver 10Best:
MazdaSpeed 3 was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2007.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While the standard Mazda3 was a contender, the Speed3's specific performance niche was highly lauded.
Sport Compact Car Of The Year:
Received numerous positive reviews and awards from automotive publications for its performance and value.