What's the news?
Mazda has reunited the popular 3 model with its top-spec MPS badge, carried forward from the previous 3 and 6. As well as the return of this exciting model, two special edition versions - Tamura and Venture - join Mazda's permanent line-up, as does a standard range topping Sport Nav diesel.
Exterior
Styling upgrades somewhat mimic that of the previous model - revised larger front and rear bumpers, twin exhausts, a Black Mica roof spoiler and a unique MPS rear wing. The trademark 18-inch MPS alloy wheels sport a gunmetal grey finish and four colour choices are available.
Interior
Mazda didn't give any clues to interior goodies for the MPS in its press release; however, based on previous models we'd expect to see full leather, heated and electric seats, the superb Bose sound system, dual-zone climate control and the option for satellite navigation.
We did get word on equipment levels for the standard models though, with base-spec Tamura versions getting a six-speaker stereo and dual-zone air conditioning. Venture models get all this plus satnav, cruise control, automatic lights and wipers and heated front seats.
Mechanicals
Underpinning the MPS is the 2.3-litre turbocharged unit from the previous car, pumping out 260hp and 380Nm of torque. The 0-62mph benchmark is dealt with in 6.1 seconds and it goes on to a limited top speed of 155mph. The new MPS also has a limited slip differential.
Changes have occurred in the regular Mazad3's standard 1.6-litre unit too. Fuel economy is up to 44.8mpg, and emissions down to 144g/km. The range-topping diesel trumps these figures however, offering 52.3mpg and a 0-62mph time of 8.2 seconds from its 2.2-litre unit; producing 185hp and 400Nm of torque.
Anything else?
The revised range is priced from £15,995; with the MPS model coming in at £23,995.
James Giddings - 4 Oct 2012