The MSP3's rivals are the following:
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 Clubman, 172 hp, $31,500
Subaru Impreza WRX 5-door, 224 hp, $33,895
Volkswagen GTI 5-door, 200 hp, $28,975

If you're thinking the MAZDSPEED3 isn't cheap, you're right; a lot of critics said that the car should've included the all-wheel drive that was found in the defunct MSP6, but that would send the car's price near $35,000, and that's way too much.

The MAZDASPEED3 is solid, fast and handles well.

Conclusion
The Caliber SRT4 may be cheaper and slightly quicker, but it's much less refined. The WRX has all-wheel drive which prevents torque steer but costs more, and the GTI has that magic that makes it so fun to drive.

Still, we like the MAZDASPEED3 a lot, because it's solid, fast and handles well. It's got all the qualities of the Mazda3 Sport but feels like it drank too much Red Bull. If you can afford the lofty price, you'll end up with a wonderful car to play with.

Luckily, the 2009 model is coming soon and will benefit from a $2,000 price drop, but it will likely lose the 0% purchase financing offer. It's up to you.


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux, Matthieu Lambert