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Mazda3 MPS 5 door Hatch (2007)
by John Ewing,reviewed April 2007
The MPS has benign looks for such a hot version of the Mazda 3. It’s an affordable, little rocket-ship that raises the bar for hot-hatches.
Under the lid, there’s the 2.3-litre turbo, intercooled engine as used in the larger 6 MPS. With power and torque similar to a current model Falcon six and a significantly lighter body, performance is impressive.
But all that urge through the front wheels means torque steer rears its ugly head, despite Mazda’s clever torque control system hosing down the worst of it.
With a slick, six-speed manual gearbox, good brakes, a responsive chassis and plenty of grip from the 18”, 45-series rubber, the 3 MPS is entertaining motoring.
A functionally laid-out interior and good build quality enhance the package.
For
Performance, finish, understated looks
Against
Torque steer, tyre noise, spare tyre, ride
Car Details
| Vehicle make |
Mazda |
| Vehicle model |
3 MPS 5-door hatch |
| Vehicle type |
Sports Under $80,000 |
| Year |
2007 |
| Price when new |
$39 990 MLP |
| Current price range |
$ - $
|
| Insurance |
Get a quote for car insurance |
| Approved Repairers |
Our expert team of approved repairers can perform general and specialist repairs, including auto-electrical, air-conditioning, radiator repairs and automatic transmissions. |
| Engine |
2.3-litre, direct petrol injection, 4-cyl |
| Max power |
190 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Max torque |
380 Nm @ 3000 rpm |
| Acceleration to 100 km/h |
8.2 secs |
| Braking from 80 km/h |
25.5 m |
| Fuel type |
PULP |
| Capacity |
(ADR FIGURE): 10.0 litres/100 km |
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This review is based on road testing conducted by The Road Ahead. Further vehicle reviews, in-depth comparisons and coverage of consumer motoring issues can be found in the Club's magazine. Prices listed were current at the time of review and are manufacturers list prices and do not include statutory and delivery charges. Prices can vary from time to time and dealer to dealer.