AUTO RED BOOK REVIEW: 2010 MAZDA MAZDASPEED3

On The Cover Review: 2010 Mazda Mazdaspeed3

With its large hood scoop and body side flares, the Mazdaspeed3 looks a lot like a Rally car. It would be easy to see this little guy sliding its way to a record at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. In reality, the 2010 version isn’t as different from last year’s car as it looks. Of course, it has the new clown mouth grille treatment just like a regular Mazda3. Mazda claims this actually improves air intake and intercooler air flow. That’s important when you’re forcing air through a 2.3-liter four-cylinder with a turbocharger. This one huffs out 263-hp and 280 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. All of this internal hardware is paired up with some suspension and braking tweaks as well. A new electrical braking system works the big rotors hidden behind wide, 18-inch wheels. Stiffer springs all-around add to the sporty nature of the Mazdaspeed3. Add it all up, and you have the perfect recipe for the Rally driver wannabe in your family.