Mazdaspeed3

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Mazdaspeed3
Overview
Manufacturer	Mazdaspeed (Mazda)
Also called	Mazda3 MPS (Australia) Mazdaspeed Axela (Japan)
Production	2007–2013
Model years	2007–2013
Assembly	Hofu, Japan (Hofu Plant)
Body and chassis
Class	Sport compact hatchback (C)
Body style	4-door hatchback
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
Related	Mazda3
Powertrain
Engine	2.3L MZR L3-VDT petrol I4 turbo
Transmission	6-speed manual

The Mazdaspeed3 is a sport compact hatchback introduced for the 2007 model year by Mazdaspeed and produced until 2013. The Mazdaspeed3 is a performance-enhanced version of the 5-door Mazda3.

Mazda unveiled the Mazda3 MPS (Mazda Performance Series) at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show in February. The same model is sold in North America as the Mazdaspeed3 and as the Mazdaspeed Axela in Japan. The vehicle is front-wheel drive and powered by a 2.3 litres (2,261 cc) turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine. The Mazdaspeed3 was designed prior to the latest generation of hot hatches, including the Dodge Caliber SRT-4, Ford Focus ST, and the Volkswagen Golf/Rabbit GTI.^{[citation needed]} The engine produces a power output of 263 hp (196 kW) and 280 lb⋅ft (380 N⋅m) of torque. The Mazdaspeed3 also features a limited slip differential.

The Mazdaspeed3 is the company's first hot hatchback since the BG Familia GT-X of the early 1990s.