Inside Line drives the new Mazdaspeed 3

Edmunds' Inside Line just couldn't wait to get their mits on the new Mazdaspeed 3 for a road test/driving impression.

So, they sent their man to Japan to get in some seat time and he came away suitably impressed.

Aimed at the new VW GTI, the MS3 packs a full 64 hp more (264) and 74 lb*ft of torque more (for 280 total). All this in a 154 lb lighter package.

Their driver found that the 1st - 3rd gear torque management system was effective at taming that 280 lb*ft that could have easily made this 3 a nightmare to drive hard.

Japanese prices are expected to come in at around $21000 US - so this could turn into one of the hottest performance bargains in recent memory. I know I'll be keeping my eye on this one as a possible next car.

Read the Inside Line article at:

Inside Line - The Quickest Hot Hatch Ever