2008 Mazda Speed3 [ 2007 ]
in Affordable Performance Cars
Based on analysis of 29 Speed3 reviews and test drives.
Mazda Speed3 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mazda Speed3 ranks 1 out of 3 Affordable Performance Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 29 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda Speed3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2008 Mazdaspeed3 brings competitive driving performance with a sharp exterior design and practical affordability. Compared to other vehicles in its class, it ranks very highly.
The 2008 Mazdaspeed3 is a highly rated sport compact that reviews say has enough zoom and zip to satisfy any enthusiast. Built on the hatchback platform of the Mazda3, it is the sportiest of the Mazda3 lineup and boasts a stiffer ride and more powerful acceleration without sacrificing practicality and affordability. "The Mazdaspeed3 is one of those rare have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too packages capable of entertaining its driver, hauling family or friends, and minding a budget," reports Automobile Magazine.
The 2008 Mazdaspeed3 comes in two trim levels: Sport and Grand Touring.
- "[T]he new Mazda will dust the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si -- two of the Speed3's major competitors-in a drag race." -- AutoWeek
- "This powerful little hatchback is less of a daily commuter and more of a screaming, raw performance car." -- Detroit News
- "There's no doubt that Porsche builds the world's best performance cars that can also serve as daily commuters, like the 911 twin turbo with all-wheel drive. But on the lower end, Mazda leads the pack -- at the racetrack and in suburbia." -- Boston Globe
- "It's got the handling, the body style, and a peppy engine. But it won't deliver the thumping bass that is also part of the hot hatchback culture, and the stereo won't easily be upgraded to satisfy music lovers." -- CNET
- "This compact wagon has the heart of a giant killer." -- Kansas City Star
- "Today, our vehicles must not only be fun to drive, but practical at the same time. While practical doesn't get the headlines, being able to be practical and infuse a high element of fun into the drive does. We think the MAZDASPEED3 achieves its goal." -- AutoMedia.com
- "The Mazdaspeed version just amplifies everything that I like about the standard edition -- more power, hotter looks, better handling, but still totally drivable on a daily basis. And the price is still very reasonable." -- About.com
- "Not only is the list price almost $25,000 -- which makes 'economy car' seem pretty irrelevant here -- some dealers are getting list price and above, because Mazda hasn't been able to keep up with demand." -- Orlando Sentinel
Speed3 Performance - 8.8 (Very Good)
Auto critics praise the 2008 Mazdaspeed3's performance for its great acceleration, confident handling and daily driving feel. The Mazdaspeed3 is a "poor man's AMG, a limited-edition in-house tuner car with outrageous power and subtle visual signifiers of its ill intentions," says the New York Times. The Mazdaspeed3 ranks near the top of its class for performance. Continue with our full Mazdaspeed3 Performance Review to learn why test drivers aren't entirely satisfied with its steering. continue
Speed3 Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)
Auto writers like the Mazdaspeed3's exterior design, which is basically a sportier Mazda3. "The Mazdaspeed3 is available only as a wagon, and this wagon is one of the best looking out there," writes the Kansas City Star. "The tapered roof ends in a slightly pointed hatchback, sharp fender flares bulge over 18-inch wheels, and the nose has a vaguely hawk-like grille." The Mazdaspeed3's body style ranks high in its class. Continue with our full Mazdaspeed3 Exterior Review to read more about its sporty design, or go to the Mazdaspeed3 Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Speed3 Interior - 7.7 (Good)
Critics appreciate the Mazdaspeed3's comfortable five-passenger cabin, which is both attractive and practical. Automobile Magazine writes, "The interior focuses on the driver's needs without forgetting that this is an affordable four-door wagon, not some frivolous two-seater." The Mazdaspeed3 receives an interior score that's on par with others in its class. Continue with our full Mazdaspeed3 Interior Review to learn why critics dislike the base trim's stereo system, or check out the photo gallery. continue
Speed3 Safety - NA
Though the Mazdaspeed3 has yet to be crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry, the Mazda3 -- which is built on the same platform -- performs well. The Mazdaspeed3 also comes equipped with a wide array of safety features, including side-impact air curtains. Continue with our full Mazdaspeed3 Safety Review to read about its other standard safety equipment. continue
Speed3 Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Mazda Speed3 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mazda offers coverage on all of its cars, including a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Continue with our full Mazdaspeed3 Reliability Review to read about its competitive powertrain warranty. continue
