Like the sedan, the hatchback gets a front fascia similar to the larger Mazda 6 sedan. Larger headlights are the most obvious change, although the unique shape of the front airdam is hard to miss. It appears to draw some inspiration from Mazda's recent concept vehicles, but it may be there to disguise the true shape.
The profile doesn't appear to have changed much. A slightly reworked rear wing is clearly visible, while the greenhouse looks a little like an Audi A4, which is not a bad thing. In back, the rear window now has Mazda's signature five-point design and the rear fascia appears more aggressive than before, with large cutouts for the dual exhausts.
Given its sizable hood scoop, we're guessing the Mazdaspeed 3 will continue to use a turbocharged four-cylinder like the current model. A lack of power has never been the Mazdaspeed 3's problem, so look for most of the improvements to be geared toward improved traction. All-wheel drive has been rumored as a possible remedy, but Inside Line has learned that the car will remain front-wheel drive.
With the debut of the 2010 Mazda 3 scheduled for the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show in November, look for the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 sometime early next year, with sales beginning by the fall.
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