The Mazda MAZDASPEED3 is a front-wheel-drive, manual-transmission-only hot hatch designed to compete with the likes of the Ford Focus ST, the Subaru WRX, and the Volkswagen Golf GTI. While it’s based on the Mazda 3 hatchback, it has a more powerful engine, larger brakes, tuned suspension, and a snazzier interior.
It’s also a heck of a lot of fun to drive. It’s known for a lot of torque steer, which is when the steering wheel jerks under hard acceleration—common among powerful front-wheel drive cars—this zippy five-door hatch also rides well and has excellent handling. While this isn’t the vehicle to buy if you regularly cart around adult-sized rear passengers, it is a fun commuter car for those in the front seat, with the added bonus of hatchback utility, although mpg leaves a little to be desired.
If you can get over the second-generation model’s cartoon-like nose have a few extra dollars to spend, then the 2012 model might be an ideal year, with its upmarket audio system and standard front airbags.
Though the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 had a short life, it was full of adventure and put the Zoom in Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom slogan. With the manufacturer’s move to more upscale marketing, we don’t see the Mazda MAZDASPEED brand returning any time soon, and that’s a big reason why these vehicles command strong prices.
Mazda MAZDASPEED3: Cost, Reliability, and the Best Years to Buy
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Pros and Cons
- Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Generations
- Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Second Generation (2010–2013)
- Mazda MAZDASPEED3 First Generation (2007–2009)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Mazda MAZDASPEED3 years are the best?
The Mazda MAZDASPEED3 had a short life and, as such, there were very few complaints throughout its seven-year run. If you look at CarComplaints.com, most years had only one or two complaints, and there are for 2007 and 2011 models. Though Consumer Reports doesn’t break out the MAZDASPEED3, if you look at the Mazda3 hatchback on which it’s based, you see average reliability ratings pretty much across the board. While that’s a way off highly reliable rivals such as the Honda Civic Type-R or a Toyota GR Corolla, it’s pretty much standard for the segment.
What are the worst Mazda MAZDASPEED3 years?
There is just one model year with an uptick in complaints, and that’s 2010, but it was the first model year of a new generation, so that makes a lot of sense. CarComplaints.com even ranks this model year the worst, and the most common problem was power steering failure. Circling back to Consumer Reports, this is the one year the Mazda 3 took a dip below average reliability ratings, so if you’re looking for a year to avoid, it’s the 2010 model hands-down.
Is a used Mazda MAZDASPEED3 a good deal?
The average price for a used Mazda MAZDASPEED3 is around $9,000. Considering as a new car, the price of a 2013 model was about $24,000, it’s holding its value well. Looking at some used car listings, we saw several MAZDASPEED3s at more than $15,000, but these were mostly for 2012 or 2013 models. If you’re willing to take a chance on a 2010 model or opt for a first-generation vehicle, you’re more likely to find something in the $5,000 to $6,000 price range, which is a very good deal.
Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong turbocharged engine
- Precise handling
- Hatchback utility
Cons:
- Torque steer
- No automatic transmission
- Poor fuel economy
Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Generations
Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Second Generation (2010–2013)
The second and final generation of the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 was introduced when the regular Mazda 3 was redesigned, so it has a lot of the same design changes, including the cartoonish “face”. However, the MAZDASPEED3 adds a hood scoop, hinting at the turbocharger and intercooler below, as well as a few other differentiating design features that set it apart.
Inside, the MAZDASPEED3, has upgraded gauges and standard black leather seats with red cloth inserts. This generation had just one trim level and a six-speed manual was the only transmission option. Keyless entry and the premium Bose audio system were available.
The turbocharged 2.3-liter engine was carried over from the first generation, retaining the 263 horsepower output. However, there were a few performance tweaks of note, including a new electric power steering pump, revised gear ratios for the manual transmission, and wider tires. Additionally, the torque-sensing limited slip differential became standard.
This generation was also short-lived, so there were very few changes throughout its run. In 2012, it got a standard 10-speaker Bose audio system, and 2013 brought a USB audio interface, while the navigation system got a larger touchscreen. The exterior included extra black trim and gunmetal dark alloy wheels.
If you’re looking for a second-generation Mazda MAZDASPEED3, you’ll likely pay more than $12,000 for it if you want it to be damage or accident free. We’ve seen 2013 models with major damage with an MSRP of $8,000, so it’s unlikely you’ll find a bargain here.
Mazda MAZDASPEED3 First Generation (2007–2009)
The first generation Mazda MAZDASPEED3 was introduced in 2006 for the 2007 model year, and it used the Mazda 3 hatchback body style. However, the MAZDASPEED version added bigger wheels, unique front and rear fascias, a rear spoiler, a chrome exhaust tip, and a raised hood as well as extra structural bracing.
It was equipped with a 263-hp, turbocharged 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, which was also used on the MAZDASPEED6, and the only transmission was a six-speed manual. Other standard features included anti-lock brakes, traction control, dynamic stability control, front airbags, logo-embroidered racing seats, signature red-stitched seams, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
This first generation had just two trims: Sport and Grand Touring. The upscale Grand Touring model added specs such as leather-and-lycra weave racing seats, a Bose stereo, automatic Xenon headlights, LED taillights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Since this was such a brief generation, there was no real refresh. Though, in late 2007, the interior trim was changed from silver to piano black.
We found a few first-generation Mazda MAZDASPEED3s for less than $5,000, but they had reportedly been in accidents. There was a 2007 MAZDASPEED3 with minor damage for $9,000, and this seemed to be the average price with or without damage. The highest price we saw for a first-generation vehicle was $21,000 with no accident or damage reported and just 25,000 miles on the odometer.
