Mazda 3 MPS 2006 The Mazda 3 MPS faces a tough league though it really pulls the performance out the bag and proves to have great stamina; no fancy footwork required Of course Mazda’s new hot hatch will make the premier division, even with players like the Ford Focus ST and VW Golf GTi to contend with. Why? Because it’s as cocksure as Theo Walcott when it comes to public perception. Thankfully for us, it’s priced significantly less than Arsenal’s teenage sensation although it couldn’t really drop much less than £20,000 if it wanted to be seen as an equal to the already well established models.
Having its own unique appeal does work in its favour and is sure to attract buyers who are happy to set trends rather than follow them. The exclusivity of owning one of only 1,000 models brings in a sense of urgency as well as having a cult feel to it. It is also much more aggressive looking than the standard 3 so you know what you’re getting up front. Having a roof spoiler, 18” alloys, chrome tailpipe and re-styled body panels will certainly turn off the pensioners together with the timid drive at 65mph on the motorway types.
Quite frankly if you don’t want power then save your doe because the Mazda 3 MPS (Mazda Performance Series) does exactly what it says on the tin. It has an intrepid 50bhp more than the GTi at 256bhp and from just 3,000rpm will churn out torque of up to 380Nm. Its stamina remains consistent throughout the gearing ratios and at top end it will hit 155mph. Short bursts of fun are also in the game plan with a 0-60mph dash achieved in 6.1 seconds. Recycling power is the key to its success and anything the more humble four cylinder doesn’t account for, will be wistfully swindled by the turbo.
With only 1,390kg of mass to pull along, the new MPS hot hatch shifts rather earnestly. Its stiffened chassis and springs, torque-sensing limited slip diff and more durable driveshafts give you immense confidence when hammering it through bends. Then to police all this fun you’ve also got the potency of Volvo S60 brakes which spend it all away like the Mrs at Christmas. Not that you’d complain when it comes to unwrapping it but you’d expect it to be special given the time and dedication she gives to shopping.
You’ll be pleased to know that the wrapping of the MPS aptly matches the product, although inside the cabin is not quite as racy. Mazda has always been good at designing interiors but as good as the standard 3’s is, you’d expect a bit more of a distinction from the MPS other than just the lettering and red stitching on the seats. Never the less the leather has a quality feel, the dash is well organised and user-friendly and if it wasn’t for the sporty suspension you’d be very comfy.
The over all feel of the Mazda 3 MPS is impressive but also somehow casual - passionate, attentive and very lively, yes, but not as intimate as you might imagine. The connection between you and this machine is quite purely physical; it puts a smile on your face and never fails to perform and if the truth be known that seems more than enough given the circumstances. Yes there are other competitors that offer a more engaging relationship but hot hatches were also meant to be fast and furious players.
Verdict
FOR: Exclusive, quick and highly tuned
AGAINST: If you want it to dart around like a ferret then it’s not going to let you relax either; sharp, responsive handling will cost you in comfort. Top end it isn’t quite as dramatic as lower down the revs.
CONCLUSION: Lucky us, there’s another all-round hot hatch on the market but whereas the Golf GTi sells on its heritage and distinctive looks, the Mazda 3 MPS sells on its exclusivity and wild nature. You can’t fault the Mazda for its holistic approach though, all aspects of motoring have been diligently thought through and it really is a great car. It will just come down to taste and a preference of driving style.
Spec
ENGINE: MZR 2.3 litre 4 cylinder
Co2 (g/km)/tax: 231g/km/-
POWER: 256bhp @ 5,500rpm
TORQUE (lb/ft): 380Nm @ 3000rpm
0-60mph (sec): 5.8
TOP SPEED: 155mph
TRANSMISSION: 6 Speed Manual
PRICE: Price £18,995
RIVALS: VW Golf GTI 2.0T, Alfa 147 GTA, Audi S3, BMW 130i, Ford Focus ST,Volvo C30 T5, RenaultSport Megane 225, SEAT Leon FR and Cupra, Skoda Octavia, Subaru Impreza WRX, Honda Civic Type R
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