2008 Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Dispensing with the use of catchy, flashy nicknames, Mazda tells it like it is with the 2008 MAZDASPEED3. This front-wheel drive hatchback...
Dispensing with the use of catchy, flashy nicknames, Mazda tells it like it is with the 2008 MAZDASPEED3. This front-wheel drive hatchback is about the fastest car in its compact class, delivering more horsepower at a cheaper price than the comparable WRX from Subaru. Introduced last year, there are no major changes for 2008.
With a lower sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, 18-inch wheels, performance tires, and a turbocharged version of the 2.3-liter inline-four engine, the 2008 MAZDASPEED3 hits 263 hp and makes 0-60 in under six seconds. Torque is rated at 280 ft-lbs at 3,000 rpm. This hatchback loves the open highway, with confident acceleration and good road grip around curves, although there is noticeable torque steer in the latter situation. The sporty theme is carried through the side sills, rear spoiler, and large chrome tailpipe. The interior continues the theme with black dash covers, black seats with red stitching, and sport seats with leather bolsters. The 2008 MAZDASPEED3 comes in Sport and Grand Touring trims, both with dual front and side curtain airbags, ABS brakes, traction and stability control, and the full array of power features. The Grand Touring adds a 6-CD player and leather seats, along with rain-sensing wipers and xenon headlights.
Based on the regular MAZDA3 hatchback, the MAZDASPEED3 seats four, with split-folding rear seats opening onto a cargo area that expands from 16 to 43 cubic feet. Passengers say the back seat is very cramped, however, and the roomiest feature seems to be the glove box. Though complaints mention a noisy and harsh ride and the lack of all-wheel drive (lending to the torque steer problem), most drivers rave about the power and performance, saying it's easy to forget how fast this car moves (watch out for tickets!). Handling and a tight turning ratio add to the driving excitement.
What owners say
"The 2008 Mazda MAZDASPEED3 impresses many owners with its quick acceleration and handling, delivering a thrilling driving experience. Drivers love the powerful turbocharged engine, decent interior space, and overall fun factor. However, some have noted issues with torque steer, maintenance costs, and the need for premium fuel, which can be drawbacks for daily drivers."
I loved this car. It was fast without being obtrusive or loud. Interior was nice, seats wer firm and comfortable. 6 speed manual gearbox and clutch had a great feel. Engine and transmission as tight as the day I bought it. Handled great and served me very well for the past 5+ years. I would have kept it indefinitely if my family was not expanding.
February 27, 2015I liked the style and performance from it being stock. Makes power really easy, and turns heads everywhere I go from the sound of the exhaust to the sound of the turbo. Shifts really smooth and needs nothing. I like this car
October 15, 2013Very subtle looking vehicle, not at all attention grabbing. Most people mistake it for base model Mazda3. However this is a much different car. Performance: Off the lot it's a very fast and quick car for a hot hatch. Simple bolt-on modifications make this thing an absolute beast. It's biggest limitation is that it's a FWD car and with that much torque it has a pretty strong Torque Steer. Build Quality: I have blown a turbo and it was replaced under warranty, this car should be running a thicker than recommended synthetic oil since it uses Direct Injection, the oil tends to get polluted with fuel. I would recommend getting an Oil Catch Can for this vehicle. Appearance: This car is subtle looking and not at all a heat score, however it's subtle differences from the base model make it stand out. 18" wheels, bigger rear wing and pronounced hood. Interior is a heavy rubberized plastic which does not feel or look cheap (however isn't Audi luxurious), leather steering wheel and all buttons are well laid out and smooth, as well it has buttons instead of toggle switches (which has been the latest trend). Lots of small race like interiors like bucket seats, and Mazdaspeed logos remind you that you bought the good one. That aside, I would have preferred a sunroof and maybe heated leather seats in the Canadian model (you would think heated seats would be a necessity for Canadian models). Cost of Ownership: Moderately priced care when compared to it's closest competitors. Maintenance costs are a little higher as I think the best synthetic oil is needed. As well this car requires Premium 91+ octane gasoline. It also runs better on Ethanol Free gas. That aside I call it my "smile tax". Fun Factor: This car never ceases to put a smile on my face. It has been everything I ever wanted out of this car.
September 30, 2010What owners say
I loved this car. It was fast without being obtrusive or loud. Interior was nice, seats wer firm and comfortable. 6 speed manual gearbox and clutch had a great feel. Engine and transmission as tight as the day I bought it. Handled great and served me very well for the past 5+ years. I would have kept it indefinitely if my family was not expanding.
February 27, 2015I liked the style and performance from it being stock. Makes power really easy, and turns heads everywhere I go from the sound of the exhaust to the sound of the turbo. Shifts really smooth and needs nothing. I like this car
October 15, 2013Very subtle looking vehicle, not at all attention grabbing. Most people mistake it for base model Mazda3. However this is a much different car. Performance: Off the lot it's a very fast and quick car for a hot hatch. Simple bolt-on modifications make this thing an absolute beast. It's biggest limitation is that it's a FWD car and with that much torque it has a pretty strong Torque Steer. Build Quality: I have blown a turbo and it was replaced under warranty, this car should be running a thicker than recommended synthetic oil since it uses Direct Injection, the oil tends to get polluted with fuel. I would recommend getting an Oil Catch Can for this vehicle. Appearance: This car is subtle looking and not at all a heat score, however it's subtle differences from the base model make it stand out. 18" wheels, bigger rear wing and pronounced hood. Interior is a heavy rubberized plastic which does not feel or look cheap (however isn't Audi luxurious), leather steering wheel and all buttons are well laid out and smooth, as well it has buttons instead of toggle switches (which has been the latest trend). Lots of small race like interiors like bucket seats, and Mazdaspeed logos remind you that you bought the good one. That aside, I would have preferred a sunroof and maybe heated leather seats in the Canadian model (you would think heated seats would be a necessity for Canadian models). Cost of Ownership: Moderately priced care when compared to it's closest competitors. Maintenance costs are a little higher as I think the best synthetic oil is needed. As well this car requires Premium 91+ octane gasoline. It also runs better on Ethanol Free gas. That aside I call it my "smile tax". Fun Factor: This car never ceases to put a smile on my face. It has been everything I ever wanted out of this car.
September 30, 2010Fantastic little hotrod. 265 bhp out of the box, 280 lb/ft torque.
March 16, 2008I loved this car for the 77,000 miles that I owned it. I installed a Cobb Accessport and Cobb Downpipe, along with their intake and a front mount intercooler and the car made around 290 wheel horsepower and 330 torque on a conservative dyno. I also averaged about 28 mpg per tank on my commute, I could get 30+ if it was all highway. It was lots of fun, decent space inside, and I would buy another.... Currently waiting to see what "Mazdaspeed" comes out next for 2015+, along with the Subaru STi, & Mitsubishi EVO.
December 10, 2013Love, love this car. Just what I wanted, light,quick, stable, not too gaudy, stealthy. Good looking too. I don't race, but just love to get to the slot that has just appeared ...first! Women really like it. They think it is an economy car! ;-)
December 4, 20102.3 liter with turbo putting out 263 HP. Handles great. Sits on the road like glued. It has some minor rattles but it's nothing serious. Car looks great and it's a sleeper. According to EPA it has 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. I had 29 MPG on highway and I'm averaging 22 MPG in city. This car is fun to drive and I would recommend it.
October 7, 2009The Mazdaspeed 3 is simply a blast to drive. The turbo provides a very high amount of torque available just a little bit up in the registry. Fantastic performance overall and great build quality. Everything feels very solid and I think this car will run for many miles. For what you pay it's nothing short of a steal considering what options come in the GT package.
June 2, 2009Amazing car, looks good inside and out. Wish the motor wasn't glass because it is able to put down big numbers. For a front drive this car handles very well. I've enjoyed it and love the looks. Better then anything else comparable in the market. For the money it simply just can't be beat.
December 5, 2008I love this car, I thought it would be the same as my Focus but I was wrong, it is so much better, great power, smooth, great interior, comfortable, roomy, and a blast to drive
June 10, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $24,055 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 263 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 16.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $22,340 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 263 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 16.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
