We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page. It doesn't change what we recommend.
Mazda is seriously considering bringing back the hot hatch based on the Mazda 3 model, U.K. publication Autocar reports. Mazda program manager Kota Beppu spoke with Autocar and said that the company is very close to bringing the high-performance version of the Mazda 3. If Mazda does bring it back, it will directly compete with Volkswagen’s GTI.
To give you further proof, it appears that major parts needed for the hatchback are already in production and are already used in the all-new Mazda 3 and other products.
Plenty of Torque Power
Mazda 3 hatchback’s was not only attracted by the body but also what it brought under the hood. The hot 3 will come equipped with Mazda’s 227 horsepower (250 hp with premium fuel) turbocharged 2.5-liter in-line engine. The engine is currently used in the company’s 6 sedan, the CX-9 and CX-5 SUVs. Don’t sit on the horsepower because it does put out 310 lb-ft of torque, which is far more than Volkswagen GTI’s 258-lb ft.
The other thing worth mentioning is the car will come equipped with AWD, so no need to worry about your front wheels spinning. The 3’s architecture has AWD in it and is already available in the U.S. versions. The Mazdaspeed 3 will not only come with a lot of torque, it will come with AWD to make sure you get the adrenaline rush you want.
No Track-Day Mode Available
Unlike the previous Mazdaspeed 3 (Hot 3), the new version will not come with a Track-Day tool, unfortunately. Beppu said that he wants the car to feel refined and sophisticated, but will not have the Track-Day tool available. The next Mazdaspeed 3 will still have that powerful feel that Mazda drivers are used to. Pair that up with a near-luxury interior ambiance and you have a great overall experience that will surely excite.
Mazda Wants Feedback
For Mazda enthusiasts, the company wants to hear what you have to say. Mazda has said that they are listening to feedback regarding the car. If the crowd speaks loud enough, there is a good chance that the Mazdaspeed 3 will come out quickly.
If you want Mazda to hear your feedback, let them hear it. Are you interested in the Mazdaspeed 3? Let the company know!
