Competition
The MAZDSPEED3 has a base price of $31,095, and there aren't any available options.

Here are a few competitors:

Audi A3 2.0T, 200 hp, $33,800
Chevrolet HHR SS, 260 hp, $28,240
Dodge Caliber SRT4, 285 hp, $24,995
Mini Cooper S, 172 hp, $29,400
Subaru Impreza WRX 5-door, 224 hp, $33,895
Volkswagen GTI 5-door, 200 hp, $30,575

The MSP3 is more refined than the Caliber SRT4 and HHR SS, less luxurious than the GTI and A3, doesn't have all-wheel drive like the WRX and is not as fun to drive as the Cooper S. Still, I like it a lot.

The MAZDASPEED3 isn't the cheapest of the bunch, but it could benefit from a lower price. After all, the base MSP3 in the United States costs only $22,975.

A price/performance ratio among the most valuable in the marketplace.

Conclusion
The MAZDASPEED3 is really fun to drive, despite the minimal torque steer felt through the steering wheel. It always begs us to drive faster than we normally would, and it would feel right at home on a racetrack.

Two things bother me: the price, knowing the Americans can get one for much less money, and the fact that it requires super unleaded fuel.

263 horsepower is too much for the average Joe. Powerful and affordable cars is what allowed our parents to drive like maniacs in the '60s and '70s, and one of the reasons why our insurance premiums are so high today.

This is a car for the experienced driver to savour, but to be operated with moderation for the rest. I'm exaggerating a little.


Gobs of horsepower and torque
Excellent handling
Fun to drive


Rather high price
Fuel consumption
Torque steer



None


Photo Credit : Bertrand Godin