2010 Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Road Test Video

2010 Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Road Test Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published October 01, 2009

3:2 min

The last Mazdaspeed3 was a whole lot of bang for the buck. The 2010 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 Full Test Video shows that things have only got better.

2010 Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Road Test Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published October 01, 2009

3:2 min

Velocity is to the new Mazdaspeed 3 what spinach is to Popeye – the faster the Mazda goes, the stronger it gets.

The 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 uses a direct-injection version of basically the same engine as its predecessor, yet it’s a little slower than the previous Mazdaspeed 3 from 0-60. The new car sprints to 60 in 6.4 seconds, three-tenths of a second longer than the old car.

Yet the 2010 model is actually faster at the end of the quarter mile. It stops the clock at 14.4 seconds and hits 99.5 mph by the end of the run. That’s the same TIME as before but 2 ½ miles per hour faster than the last Mazdaspeed 3.

How can it be faster but slower?  Two reasons.  It’s faster because a larger air intake and new hood scoop for the intercooler work better. The cooler fresh air and effective chilling of that air results in a bigger bang at high speed. This despite the fact that the car’s output rating of 230 hp and 280 lb ft of torque remains unchanged.

However, it’s slower because a slight, electronically induced pause in the power delivery  smooths out shifts and lessens drivetrain shock, and this ultimately keeps the Mazda from matching the old 0-60 time.

But just like Popeye, the Mazdaspeed feels like it’s cracked a monster-size can of spinach when it comes to handling. The new car manages to be both firmer and more forgiving - only the roughest roads upset it. The same goes for the steering – it faithfully transmits the road surface but it never feels taxing or harsh.

Back at the track, it all adds up to an amazing slalom speed of 72.4 mph – or 4.6 mph faster than the previous Mazdaspeed 3.
Brake pedal feel is firm with little travel. It’s easy to modulate braking force no matter how hard you’re driving and outright stopping power is commendably short at 113 feet from 60 mph.

Thankfully, the new Mazdaspeed 3 is about more than just stellar performance. The cabin is more refined and now sports a contemporary design unlike most other cars at this price. From its airy layout to the low-gloss presentation, it’s a pleasant place to be.

Our production-spec tester is equipped with the optional Tech Package, which includes premium audio and a navigation system with a remarkably crisp screen despite its small size.

With an excellent ride and a refined interior, this Mazda provides rewards even when you’re not trying to hit every apex. While it is a little slower from 0-60, handling improvements alone make this car more capable and fun than the previous generation. Add it all up and it’s clear the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 isn’t just a stronger performance car, it’s a better all-around car.