In 2007, the Mazdaspeed3 was the most powerful front-driver under $25,000. Yet, it was the deft combination of power and utility that made the hatchback irresistible. The 2010 Mazdaspeed3, fortunately, relies on much of the previous generation's hardware -- engine included -- but gains Mazda's smiley-face aesthetics, an updated suspension and driveline, and reworked electronics to improve upon an already stout platform.

As with the standard Mazda3, Mazda's "Nagare" design language is apparent. The 2010 version receives a new lower airdam and hood scoop to differentiate it. The larger scoop improves intercooler airflow and frees enough real estate for a new intake duct; both upgrades, Mazda says, improve efficiency. Side skirts and larger exhaust tips complete the visual upgrades.

The wheels, sporting a design from the RX-8 R3, retain an 18-in. diameter but grow 0.5-in. in width. Tires follow, changing from Bridgestone Potenza RE050As to wider Dunlop SP Sport 2050s, sized 225/40R18. The wheels attach to MacPherson struts in the front and a multilink rear suspension, both with stiffer springs and higher dampening rates. There are new mounting points for the front stabilizer bar, and, for the rest of the suspension, thicker sheetmetal in high-stress areas, improving rigidity. Mazda claims a 2% increase in overall torsion stiffness.

The mechanical braking and hydraulic steering systems are no more. Mazda adopts electrical solutions to both, claiming greater flexibility in tuning. Rotors remain 12.6 in. up front and 11.0 in. at the rear, but now use an assist to combat driver hesitation during panic braking. The electric steering, Mazda says, is well weighted at high speeds, but not heavy when putting around parking lots.

Behind the steering wheel is the normal gauge cluster, augmented with a LED boost gauge. The rest of the interior wears black with red stitching and Mazdaspeed3 graphics on the semi-bucket front seats. Storage space grows slightly over its predecessor, to 17.0 cu ft. And, like on the standard Mazda3, an optional Tech Package includes push-button start, navigation, satellite radio, alarm, six-disc changer, and a five-channel Bose sound system.

The 263-horse turbo 2.3L carries over, but mates to a transmission with taller gears from second to fifth. With 280 lb-ft at 3000 rpm, torque steer is the enemy. Mazda combats it with a torque-sensing conical limit-slip and recalibrated torque-management system, which limits power based on gear and steering input.

Despite being one of the oldest in our "Small, Fast, Fun" comparison, the last Mazdaspeed3 clinched third thanks to incredible torque and driving feel. For 2010, Mazda appears to have only improved on the Speed3's strong points.

Article key :  Mazda MAZDASPEED3, Mazda, SPEED, New Cars, 2009, 2010