|  The MazdaSpeed3 made its debut at the New York International Auto Show and will be launched in Fall 2006. Having its compact, lightweight body and more than 250 hp from a 2.3-liter Direct Injection Spark Ignition Turbo engine, MazdaSpeed3 will be one of the quickest front-wheel drive cars in the world.
The MazdaSpeed3 features a six-speed manual transmission that provides the driver with full control over the vehicle’s high power, contributing to a quiet ride and strong fuel economy. A compact three-shaft design makes this possible to keep the overall length the same as the five-speed manual transmission used in the standard Mazda3. Moreover, a wide gear ratios fully exploit the wide torque band of the direct-injection turbocharged engine. The Mazdaspeed3 features a compact, lightweight five-door body paired with a 263-horsepower 2.3-liter DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) Turbo engine, giving it a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio and making it one of the highest performing front-wheel drive cars in the world. Under the hood of the Mazdaspeed3 is a version of the turbocharged and intercooled 2.3-liter four-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine that powers the highly regarded Mazdaspeed6 sport sedan and the CX-7 crossover SUV. Engineered to deliver high performance at all speeds, along with low exhaust emissions and excellent fuel economy, Mazda’s MZR 2.3 DISI turbocharged engine produces 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 280 lb-ft torque at 3,000 rpm in the Mazdaspeed3. Key engine components include aluminum block and head construction with forged steel internal components — crankshaft and connecting rods — for long-lasting durability, while balance shafts help eliminate noise and vibration. A large air-to-air intercooler and direct fuel injection cool temperature inside the cylinder. To most eyes the Mazdaspeed3 doesn't look much different from the regular Mazda3 hatchback. Inspect it a little more and you'll find a revised front end with different lights and bumper, and a lower stance over large 18-inch wheels. Around back there are new taillights, as well as a large spoiler at the top of the hatch. Because of its placement, there's no air of immaturity sometimes associated with large wings on sport sedans.
Inside, the Mazdaspeed3 gets new sport-inspired bucket seats and red trim, and that's about it. This is a no-frills machine, and the regular Mazda3 already sports an attractive interior for a compact car. Mazda did well not to change too much here. The gauges are the same glowing orange and hold up well in bright sunlight. Radio and environmental controls are easy to reach and intuitive in every respect.
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