Since the Mazdaspeed3's debut for 2010, Mazda has consistently upped the ante with new inclusions. Technically in its second generation, although the pilot is known as the Mazdaspeed Mazda3, the Mazdaspeed3 was redesigned for a firmer suspension in its 2010 debut and the Technology options package expanded for 2011 to include rain-sensing wipers, LED taillights and automatic adaptive bi-xenon headlights. For 2012 the 10-speaker Bose surround-sound system that was previously a part of an option pack became a standard feature, and the tag was likewise bumped up a slight $300 notch.

Even going way back to its 2007 roots, the Mazadaspeed3 seems invincible. Drivers consistently praise this hot hatchback's rocket performance and unbelievable value, and only a few report fluke mechanical problems—most commonly, black smoke from the turbo. Although that was rare in the 2007 and even more rare in the 2011 edition, there doesn't seem to be any official word on whether Mazda has modified the crankcase ventilation that appears to be causing the problem, which only a few drivers seem to even notice.

That aside, prospective drivers would be hard pressed to find a negative review in all of the years this 5-seat sport hatch has been produced. Drivers that crave front-wheel-drive performance and prefer a 6-speed stick to do it are in love with the Mazdaspeed3, even comparing it to cars twice as pricey with international checkered flags under their belt and still coming out with a preference for the Mazdaspeed3. So it may not have an analog clock or thick insulation to block out the road's song, but the breed of driver whose heart skips a beat with each rev of a refined engine isn't concerned about such things once they sit behind the wheel of the Mazdaspeed3.

To be sure, the turbocharged 2.3-liter four-banger under the hood is definitely prone to torque steer, cranking out 263 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque on a regular-fuel diet of 18 mpg city/25 highway, although some drivers recommend springing for the good stuff. Zip to 60 mph is reached in just over 6 seconds, and drivers commend the earlier-generation's clutch refinements, using words like "silken," "easy" and "thrilling" to describe the latest models. Crash-test ratings are all excellent except for side-impact protection, which is rated at 3 out of 5 stars. The 2012 Mazdaspeed3 stops from 60 mph in an excellent 113 feet, and standard safety features include traction and stability control, antilock brakes, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. A blind-spot warning system is available in the Tech package.

Standard features include a limited-slip differential, full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, height-adjustable driver seat, tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, adjustable front armrest, Bluetooth connectivity and that Bose sound system with CD player and auxiliary audio jack.

Drivers over 6 feet tall are comfortably accommodated, and the rear comfortably seats 3 even with car seats or boosters, but the trunk is a mere 17 cubes unless the rear seats are folded down to afford nearly 43 cubic feet of cargo capacity. It's not meant to be your typical hatch though—the 2012 Mazdaspeed3 was built for thrills, and it offers those in spades.