From the logbook: Mazdaspeed3

Consumer Reports News: January 04, 2010 05:08 AM

Find Ratings

Sports cars

See Dealer Pricing

Since we have a Volkswagen GTI in our test fleet, the logical next question is "Where's the Mazdaspeed3?" Not to worry--we bought one. Our Mazdaspeed3 Sport stickered for $23,945 with no options, a pretty good price for its level of performance and amenities.

Both of these hot hatches got redesigned for 2010, and even though they're rather different in personality, they're obvious competition for one another. So, it's no surprise that the GTI crops up a few times in the Mazdaspeed3's logbook comments.

Take a look:

"More torque steer than I remember in the last version."
"Shifter is easy to use and precise."

"Quick car with bags of torque."

"Stiff ride and somewhat noisy cabin make it a bit hard to be an everyday car."

"Lots of fun to flog."

"Ride decidedly taut. Lots of road noise."

"Push-button key release is a bother."

"Not a fan of the acid-trip door panels or red speckled dash trim."

"Very stiff ride, tons of noise from road, tires, and engine drone."

"Seat well-bolstered but not too snug."

"GTI nicer to drive, but this sure ain't bad."

"Very strong performance – the thing flies."

"This car beats you up almost like a [Mitsubishi Lancer] Evo but with much less reward."

"Ridiculous torque steer, GTI is more comfy."

"Dealer replaced water pump and thermostat housing to fix coolant leak." (!!)

"I bet 9 out of 10 people go to the big silver knob on the radio to turn it on and adjust the volume." (It actually adjusts the radio frequency.)

Our last-generation Mazdaspeed3 appealed to us for having great performance with decent livability. The logbook comments paint a picture of a redesign that focuses more on power than politeness.

— Tom Mutchler