2010 MAZDASPEED

	Starting MSRP	Invoice
SPEED3 4dr Hatchback Sport	$23,340	$21,851
Destination Charge: $750

The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 is the performance version of the Mazda3. Mazda has kept the turbocharged engine from the previous generation, but the car looks dramatically different.

The Mazdaspeed is only available as a hatchback. The Speed3's grille is more exaggerated than the Mazda3 and has a lower air dam and flared front fenders. The hood has a wide scoop to funnel air through the car's high-mounted intercooler. Big dual tailpipes and a rear spoiler at the top of the liftgate spruce up the rear of the car. The 18-inch alloy wheels are unique to the 'Speed3.

The Mazdaspeed shares its overall interior design with the regular Mazda3, but has red accent stitching on the shift boot, steering wheel and seat fabric. Other red treatments appear on the door panels and sport seat inserts. An LED turbo-boost gauge appears between the speedometer and tachometer.

The Mazdaspeed makes 263 horsepower and 280 pounds-feet of torque with the turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard.

The Mazdaspeed is front-wheel drive.  The springs and the shock absorbers are now firmer than they were in the previous generation, with the steering rack now secured in three rather than two places. The Mazdaspeed has an electric steering pump with conventional hydraulic assist.  This improves the efficiency of the previous generation's mechanical pump without sacrificing steering character.

Four-wheel antilock disc brakes with brake assist are standard, as is an electronic stability system with integrated traction control. Airbags include frontal, front-seat side impact and side curtains.