I didn't expect to explore the limits of our 2010 Mazdaspeed 3's hauling ability so early in our relationship. But last night four tires (mounted on alloys) and other assorted racecar supplies needed to make a 40-mile trip.
The 60/40 rear seats were immediately folded; they go perfectly flat to open up a 43-cubic-foot space. Just about every cubic foot got used last night. I couldn't see out the back, obviously, so I made frequent use of the Mazdaspeed 3's large, well postioned side mirrors, plus my own capacity for situational awareness, on the freeway.
The load was probably equivalent to having three adults in the backseat, and I was definitely aware of the extra weight when accelerating or turning. Still, I didn't have any difficulty getting up to cruising speed -- the Mazdaspeed has a 280 pound-foot torque rating, remember.
But the trip home, sans load, was a lot more fun. I delighted in the hatchback's now unencumbered feel and the empty freeway ahead of me. Fun car.
Erin Riches, Senior Editor @ 3,164 miles
charlesncharge says:
11:32 AM, 11/19/09
What happened, did you finally kick your boyfriend to the curb?
That's an awful lot of crap - I'd be really glad to have it all out of my garage, too!
BTW: Maybe not the greatest placement of a five-gallon can of race gas = instant explosion in a rear-end collision w/an F-150 etc.
roadburner says:
01:40 PM, 11/19/09
My MS3 excels at carrying junk around; used oil, old batteries, tires, a muddy GSD- it's a great hauler.
blueguydotcom says:
10:55 PM, 11/19/09
This is why hot hatches are great.
sgude says:
06:39 AM, 11/20/09
+1 blueguydotcom.
stwok says:
12:42 PM, 11/20/09
what are the race supplies for? someone going to the track?