Mazda doesn't have a booth at SEMA and is displaying only two cars. The 2.5-liter MZR four-cylinder in the Mazda 3 sedan (top photo) is fitted with a turbo kit from Tri-Point Engineering, the company that builds Mazda's racecars for the World Challenge Series. The kit utilizes a cast-iron exhaust manifold that feeds a Garrett GT2871R turbo tuned to pump out 10 psi. The car also uses Mazdaspeed 3 brake rotors and calipers up front and Mazda 5 rotors and calipers out back.
The lower photo is a very mildly tuned Mazdaspeed 3 that's fitted with Stoptech brakes and an AEM intake. Both cars use forged 19-inch wheels from the RX-8 R3 and 225/40-19 Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires.
We're told the sedan will be available for testing soon.
Josh Jacquot, Senior Road Test Editor
powell_jr says:
12:38 PM, 11/ 4/09
I wish mazda would make a mazdaspeed3 sedan. I would really like a mazdaspeed3 sedan because I'm not a huge fan of the hatchback.
hondacura4 says:
02:36 PM, 11/ 4/09
^^^ Agree!
Love those rims.
efinils2 says:
03:17 PM, 11/ 4/09
I would imagine a Speed3 in sedan version would have improved body rigidity and thus better handling; but a speed RX8 Turbo, that would be worth it.
inlinesix says:
04:54 PM, 11/ 4/09
Looks great
bimmerjay says:
07:50 AM, 11/ 5/09
I actually like them both, and +1 on the cool wheels.
nhridge1 says:
07:27 PM, 11/ 5/09
When will they make a Speed3 AWD. The looks alone would outshine the WRX and Mistu sedans with the performance most likely kicking butt. They had the Speed6 AWD, now bring on the 3.
cycomic says:
07:24 PM, 11/13/09
I PRETTY MUCH AGREE WITH EVERYBODY'S COMMENT....I WOULD LIKE TO SEE AN MAZDA 3 SEDAN..HATCH IS OK, BUT IT NEEDS TO BE A 2-DO0R..HATE 4-DOOR HATCHES