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 4.5 out of 5 Safety The MPS gets uprated brakes to cope with the extra power as well as four-wheel ABS and dynamic stability control (DSC) which helps bring the car under control in a skid. An adaptive front lighting system with xenon lights pivots in corners or at junctions to improve illumination and a rear vehicle monitoring system (called RVM) warns you of any vehicles in your blind spot when changing lanes. Like all other Mazda3 models, the MPS has front, side and curtain airbags, active front head restraints and front seatbelt pre-tensioners. It's no surprise then, that it was awarded the maximum five star rating for crash safety by Euro NCAP with a high score for child safety. Euro NCAP Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe. Visit Euro NCAP for more info Adult Occupant Rating 5 out of 5 4 out of 5 Reliability Mazda's tend to be very reliable and this version of the MPS uses many of the components - including the engine - that were proven in the first generation model. That car has proved trouble-free since it was launched in 2007. Car check problem points Body No problems reported. Engine/Gearbox No problems reported. Other No problems reported. 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 Previous: Costs Next: Buying & Selling