Mazda 3 MPS (07-08) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on 23 October 2006

Last Updated: 23 March 2009

When it comes to power and performance, few hot hatches can match the Mazda 3 MPS. It's the quickest and fastest Mazda you can buy, accelerating from 0-62mph in just 6.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph. Some buyers may be put off by its plain looks, while for others, this will be one of the key draws. The styling tweaks are very subtle and spotting the difference between this high-performance version and a standard car requires a keen eye - the MPS whispers, rather than shouts that it's a hot hatch. It's also let down by a lifeless gearchange, average steering and an engine that lacks character. But with 260bhp from its turbocharged 2.3-litre engine, it's headlining grabbing power figure surpasses all of the hot hatch alternatives.

3.5 out of 5

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3.5 out of 5

Equipment

All cars get MPS-branded sports seats, 60/40 split folding rear seat, a centre armrest with cup holders, leather steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake lever, Bose six-CD autochanger, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, trip computer, remote central locking, electric front and rear windows, climate control, power steering, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, stability control, traction control, limited slip diff, driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, Isofix child seat anchor points, Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser, 18-inch alloy wheels, 'Sports Appearance Pack' (unique grille, bonnet, bumpers, side skirts and rear spoiler), body-coloured door handles, electric/heated door mirrors, tinted glass, xenon headlamps, front fog lights, automatic lights, rain-sensing wipers and chrome exhaust tailpipe.

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