10 Great Hatchbacks

Photo by Zack Pike

2. Mazdaspeed 3

The Mazdaspeed 3 is an upgraded version of the Mazda 3. Upgraded by Mazdaspeed, Mazda’s in house performance division. The Mazdaspeed 3 is powered by a turbocharged, 2.3 liter, 4 cylinder engine, that produces 263 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed transmission comes standard with a limited slip differential; no automatic transmission is offered on this model. To reduce wheel slip, the turbo boost is limited in the first two gears. The boost reduction is determined by gear selection and steering angle. The hood features a hood scoop that allows for a dense charge to the top mounted intercooler, keeping heat soak to a minimum. From a standstill the Madzaspeed 3 can reach 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and runs the quarter-mile in 13.9 seconds.