The red-hot new Mazda 3 has finally broken cover. These are the first official images of the flagship MPS, ahead of its debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.
It uses the same 197kW 2.3-litre turbocharged engine as the existing model – and offers a zero to 100km/h sprint of 6 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h. Only the imminent 224kW Focus RS has more power in the front-wheel-drive hot hatch class.
The fresh shape of the latest 3 has been beefed up with a Subaru Impreza-style bonnet scoop, deeper front and rear bumpers, a prominent boot lip spoiler and twin exhausts.
Even though it provides near-identical performance to the outgoing car, the new flagship will deliver improved economy, as well as emissions that meet Euro V regulations. This is due to subtle engine tweaks and a marginally lighter kerbweight.
Also at Geneva will be an i-stop version of the 3. It has a 110kW 2.0-litre DISI petrol engine with a stop-start system, cutting emissions by 12 per cent to 161g/km. The green set-up is due to be fitted across the range in the coming months.
It looks like Mazda have got the styling right for their new MPS, accentuating the performance characteristics and differentiating it from the rest of the range.
Adapted from AutoExpress UK
Related posts:
