Mazda
Mazda's hot hatch. Mazdaspeed 3 first generation (2007-2009) and second generation (2010-2013). 263 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder.
The Mazda Speed3 (officially Mazdaspeed 3 in some markets, MS3 in others) is a hot hatch produced from 2007 to 2013 across two generations. The Speed3 was Mazda factory performance variant of the Mazda3 hatchback, with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder making 263 horsepower (factory rating, with modest tuning often producing more). The Speed3 became one of the more respected hot hatches of its era and a popular tuner platform. The first-generation Speed3 (2007-2009) had distinctive aggressive front-end styling, hood scoop, and various other visual differentiators from base Mazda3. The second-generation Speed3 (2010-2013) refined the formula with revised styling and chassis tuning. Both generations used the 2.3-liter MZR DISI Turbo engine; the second generation had revised tuning and slightly different power characteristics. The Speed3 was sold from 2007-2013 in North America (alongside other markets globally). Production ended in 2013 with no direct successor; the modern Mazda3 has not been offered with a high-performance variant. The CX-5 with Skyactiv-G turbo engines is sometimes mentioned as a spiritual successor; the Speed3 specific position is unfilled. Used Speed3 pricing has been moderate. The platform has aged into recognized hot hatch collector territory. Modified Speed3 builds (with engine tuning, suspension upgrades, brake upgrades) are common. The Speed3 community has been particularly active and has built strong tuner support. On WhipJury, Speed3 submissions are common. Both generations appear regularly, with the first generation (2007-2009) being slightly more popular for its aggressive styling. Modified examples reliably do well in voting.
2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four. 263 horsepower factory rating. Direct injection, twin-scroll turbocharger, intercooler. The engine responds well to ECU tunes; aftermarket tunes can add 50-100+ horsepower. The block is durable when properly tuned and maintained. Common modifications include intake, exhaust, intercooler, and tune.
First (2007-2009). Distinctive aggressive styling, hood scoop, front fender flares. Six-speed manual standard. Premium hot hatch positioning.
Second (2010-2013). Refined styling, revised chassis tuning, slight power and torque increases on later cars. Production ended 2013.
First and second generation Speed3s submit regularly. Modified examples (intake, exhaust, tune, suspension) are common. Stock low-mile cars in clean condition reliably do well. The community recognizes the Speed3 as one of the great affordable hot hatches.