Mazda 3 MPS (09 on) - Review Review by David Ross on 30 September 2009 Last Updated: 09 December 2009 At the top of the Mazda3 range sits the MPS - the high performance model which is an alternative to the likes of the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST. One thing it has on its side is power - the turbocharged engine produces an impressive 260bhp which is considerably more than most hot hatchbacks. Compared to the first Mazda3 MPS, this one is far more aggressive and distinctively styled. It's also very well equipped with sat nav, Bluetooth and a Bose stereo system as standard. All this adds up to make the MPS great value for money, especially when compared to more well known performance hatches. However, while it's fast, it doesn't feel very involving to drive and lacks that all important enjoyment element you'd expect from this sort of car. 3.5 out of 5 Other Mazda reviews Summary Facts & Figures Equipment Driving & Performance Comfort Costs Safety & Reliability Buying & Selling Also Consider Company Car Info Gallery 3.5 out of 5 Summary Tweet New price range: £23,995 View all new prices Used price range: £10,620 - £16,441 View all used prices See 1 new models for sale from £21,495 Get a Mazda 3 MPS (09 on) information pack Next steps Mazda 3 MPS cars for sale Use our cars for sale search facility to find great deals on second hand cars. We have 25 models like this for sale, starting at £11,788. Find used Mazda 3 MPSs for sale Strong performance, superb in-gear acceleration, aggressive looks, good value for a hot hatch Not very engaging to drive, steering struggles under acceleration, lacks the feelgood factor At the top of the Mazda3 range sits the MPS - the high performance model which is an alternative to the likes of the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST. One thing it has on its side is power - the turbocharged engine produces an impressive 260bhp which is considerably more than most hot hatchbacks. Compared to the first Mazda3 MPS, this one is far more aggressive and distinctively styled. It's also very well equipped with sat nav, Bluetooth and a Bose stereo system as standard. All this adds up to make the MPS great value for money, especially when compared to more well known performance hatches. However, while it's fast, it doesn't feel very involving to drive and lacks that all important enjoyment element you'd expect from this sort of car. Driving & Performance Performance 4.5 out of 5"There's no denying the MPS is quick. It uses the same turbocharged 2.3-litre engine as the previous..." Handling 3.5 out of 5"While the front end of the MPS can feel a little wayward, that's not to say the front wheels lose..." Comfort Comfort 4 out of 5"Whereas some performance hatchbacks are unforgiving for passengers, the MPS has a relatively smooth..." Practicality 4 out of 5"The MPS version of the Mazda3 is equally as practical as the standard model. The boot offers 340..." Equipment 4.5 out of 5"Just one version of the MPS is available and as it's the top-of-the-range Mazda3 model it comes well..." Behind the wheel 4.5 out of 5"The MPS version has a similar cabin to the standard Mazda3 which means high quality materials and an..." Costs Running costs 3 out of 5"Although Mazda servicing is reasonably priced (and the dealers have a good reputation for customer..." Green credentials 2 out of 5"Few hot hatches are very green, but the MPS is reasonably efficient for a car with 260bhp. It..." Safety & Reliability Safety 4.5 out of 5"The MPS gets uprated brakes to cope with the extra power as well as four-wheel ABS and dynamic..." Reliability 4 out of 5"Mazda's tend to be very reliable and this version of the MPS uses many of the components - including..." Buying & Selling Buying new 3.5 out of 5"With 260bhp and a long list of standard equipment including Bluetooth and sat nav, the Mazda3 MPS..." Buying used 4 out of 5"It's good value new, but the MPS is an even better bargain second hand. The best models are likely..." Selling 3 out of 5"The biggest challenge when selling an MPS will be the lack of awareness. Most buyers after a fast..." Gallery View full gallery Car Valuations Find used car prices with Parkers accurate car valuations. Find out more Mazda 3 cars for sale We have 25 models like this for sale. Find Mazda 3 cars for sale Next: Facts & Figures