Geneva: Mazda3 MPS and Mazda3 refresh press release and pics

It's like 39 pages and I'll try to post all the info later, but here are the summaries.

Note: All info is Euro-spec.

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Mazda3 MPS (i.e. Mazdaspeed3 in N. America):

[font=&quot]The all-new Mazda3 MPS takes its place as the flagship of the Mazda3 facelift line up and is the second MPS sports model after the Mazda6 MPS, launched just two months ago in Europe. The Mazda3 MPS has a distinctly MPS design that combines a refined, yet strong and sporty road presence that is carried over into the interior with look and feel that evolves Mazda craftsmanship and quality even further. Mazda3 MPS is outfitted with Mazdas 2.3-litre DISI* Turbo petrol engine in a front engine, front-wheel drive (FWD) layout that produces more than 184 kW/250 PS at 5,500 rpm** and maximum torque of 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm**. This not only makes Mazda3 MPS one of the most powerful and responsive compact sports models with FWD, it combines this with a stiffer body shell and a suspension with 60 percent improvement in roll stiffness versus the Mazda3 facelift standard model for superior Zoom-Zoom handling attributes. Mazdas petrol direct injection technology not only makes the new Mazda3 MPS powerful, it is also Euro Stage IV compliant with fuel consumption levels that are particularly good for a car with this kind of performance.

Mazda3 refresh:
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Since its launch in 2003, Mazda3 has become Mazdas best-selling vehicle and the company has even had to increase production to meet global demand. To further enhance its global popularity, Mazda has refreshed its compact stars line-up in a 2006 [font=&quot]version with enhanced design and comfort, optimized performance and even higher levels of interior quality feel. New exterior enhancements to both the modern and elegant sedan and the sporty hatchback further support a standard Mazda3 line up with two distinct models for customers to choose from. The Mazda3 face-lifts petrol engine line up features three MZR aggregates a 2.0-litre, a 1.6-litre, and a base 1.4-litre (depending on market offer) all of them further optimized so the model can continue to be one of the better driving cars in its segment and adds a new six-speed trans*mission for the top-end petrol. The Mazda3 facelift retains the two derivatives of the MZ*CD 1.6-litre common-rail turbo diesel engine for European customers (depending on market offer), both offering high torque and power with low diesel fuel consumption. Added to this are enhancements to the body shell along with improved damper performance and improved aerodynamics for even better handling, stability and driving fun. Overall comfort has also been improved with more insulation against road noise, revised tyres and reduced suspension vibration. Features newly added to the line up, like available advanced keyless entry and a 20 gigabyte hard disc drive audio system (depending on market offer), make the Mazda3 facelift even easier to use and enjoy on a daily basis.
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This is all I can upload right now - I'm sure others will upload more pics later today.

Restyled sedan front.

Note: The Mazda3 sedan I posted above is the Mazda3 refresh (same with 2-tone seat interior pic). The red 5-door is the MPS.

(ohsnap!)...I've been hunting the latest Geneva info for MS3 and you HAVE IT ALREADY! SWEET

What's 380 Nm in U.S. TQ #'s???

* Stickied!

so is 250 PS equal to 250 HP?? And it says "more than"... ???

I'll see if i can find conversions for the torque specs.

holy crap, i dunno if i converted it right, but it comes out to 280.3 pound feet!! i really hope thats right.

20 gig hard drive???? You have my interest peaked. Of course we'll never see that here.

Full details on the Mazda3 MPS from the press release:

Developed under the key concept of "a dynamic sporty compact that exceeds your expectations," Mazda3 debuted in summer 2003 and has gone on to enjoy enormous popularity among customers worldwide. Selected as the 2004 European Car of the Year runner-up and winner of ca. 60 prestigious awards from countries around the world, Mazda3 is clearly recognized as one of the leading cars in the compact segment. This remarkable level of recognition boosted sales in Europe, North America and Australia. Since launch, it has become Mazdas best-selling model globally with over 750,000 units produced in just 30 months and has sustained Mazda's growth during this period.

Mazda3 MPS, which is making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, dramatically reinforces the acclaimed dynamics of the original Mazda3 and delivers maximum driving pleasure through outstanding performance and a superior chassis, said Tatsuo Maeda, Programme Manager for development of the Mazda3 series. To create this new benchmark, we looked to embody the following three requirements:

Driving Fun: Formidable performance from the MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo engine, along with sharply responsive handling achieved by capitalizing on the characteristics of the compact, lightweight body.

Ownership Delight: Exterior styling that gives an immediate impression of driving fun, and an interior with a quality feel that exceeds expectations.
Everyday, User-Friendly Convenience: An exceptional balance of driving pleasure with everyday functionality and comfort.

As a result, the flagship of the Mazda3 range features a stylishly sophisticated look combined with performance levels that make it one of the fastest sports compacts with a FWD layout. Mazda3 MPS offers truly exhilarating acceleration from a standing start, superior passing acceleration in the practical speed range and one of the highest top speeds in its class.

Mazda3 MPS is the second vehicle in the Mazda Performance Series, following the Mazda6 MPS launched in Europe two months ago. This high-performance sedan is equipped with the same MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo engine as the Mazda3 MPS, and incorporates a 4WD system and has a GT character with the accent on a feeling of stability. In contrast, the Mazda3 MPS uses a FWD layout to maximize the inherent agile handling characteristics of its lightweight and compact body. In addition, the FWD configuration permitted more affordable pricing, allowing Mazda the opportunity of offering Zoom-Zoom to a wider audience in an extremely fun-to-drive package.

MPS Design DNA the Harmony of Refinement and Sensuality
Mazda3 MPS styling pursues a look of strength and solidity in a design that conveys the car's unmatched dynamic performance at a glance. Its form is characterized by boldly flared front fenders, and effective use of strong edges on the bonnet and other elements. These combine with the functional forms of the bumpers, spoilers and other parts developed for outstanding aerodynamic performance, to make a radical Zoom-Zoom statement in an FWD sports compact. Overall, Mazda3 MPSs design is sporty and strong, befitting a high-performance model, without exaggerated styling cues. Instead, the focus is on creating a refined presence, which owners can take pride in. This approach is an important facet of MPS design DNA, also adopted for the Mazda6 MPS.

Exterior Design
The integrated form of the 5-door hatchback of the base model was the starting point for the individualistic statement Mazda3 MPS makes about the Zoom-Zoom spirit. Although it has the athletic form of a high-performance model, it also realizes a refined, supple look calculated to appeal to the aesthetic sensibility of the more mature driver. Its front fenders are 20 mm wider than on the base model to provide clearance for the large tyres and to evoke a well-planted stance. And to forge a uniform identity for the MPS series, two design elements are shared with the Mazda6 MPS: strong press lines flowing back along the bonnet from the upper part of the five-point grille used as the air intake for the intercooler, and the aerodynamically shaped front bumper and large lower grille serving as the air intake for the radiator. Additionally, the "floating image" angular fog lamps used here for the first time communicate the vehicle's unique personality. An athletic yet elegant side view is created by aerodynamic side skirts and 18-inch, 10-spoke aluminium alloy wheels.

The rear view is characterized by the design of the rear bumper, which suggests stable road hold, the tailpipe with a large diameter (95 mm) and the roof spoiler with integrated high-mounted LED brake lights. These items add up to a tautly defined rear design that is instantly recognizable as the Mazda3 MPS to other drivers who see it pass.

Interior Design
A high quality black sets the tone of the interior, accented by red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and the six-speed manual transmission shift knob to create a sporty yet refined ambience the hallmark of a Mazda MPS model. The instrument panel includes a matte black decorative insert panel finished with a hairline treatment to underscore the vehicles aggressively modern personality. A leather wrapped shift knob, aluminium pedals and stainless steel scuff plates further contribute to the sporty, high quality ambience that distinguishes MPS models, while semi-bucket front seats provide firm support to match the uniquely sporty performance of the Mazda3 MPS. Additionally, the instrument panel houses a blackout type speedometer (scaled to 280 km/h) in the centre position and the front seats bear the MPS logo on the seatbacks, a casual reminder that this is the highest performance model in the Mazda3 line up.

Euro Stage IV Emissions Combined with Formidable Power and Agile Handling
Mazda3 MPS is equipped with a 2.3-litre petrol direct injection turbo engine (MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo) that is Euro Stage IV compliant while generating formidable maximum power of more than 184 kW/250 PS at 5,500 rpm* and maximum torque of 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm*. Installed in a lightweight and compact body, the engine propels Mazda3 MPS to a top speed of 250 km/h**, and from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds***. These figures make the Mazda3 MPS one of the most powerful sports compacts with a FWD layout.

To handle this level of performance, torque characteristics are carefully controlled to improve driveability. The body, suspension and brakes are specially tuned as part of the vehicles all-round optimization. The result is outstanding performance and agile handling that deliver high levels of driving pleasure. Since this kind of driving can only normally be experienced in a pure sports car, Mazda3 MPS far exceeds driver expectations.

MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo Engine
In addition to delivering a high-performance Zoom-Zoom driving experience, the MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo engine also exhibits good environmental compatibility with low fuel consumption and Euro Stage IV emissions. This powerplant is a direct-injection turbocharged unit developed by Mazda to achieve three aspects of performance that are difficult to realize with conventional manifold injection engines: good fuel-economy and low exhaust gas emissions, powerful acceleration thanks to the turbocharger, and a full
and flat torque curve throughout the rev range for exceptional engine response.

Mazdas MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo injects fuel into the cylinders at pressures as high as 11.5 MPa, which cools the combustion chambers (internal cooling effect) through latent heat

of vaporization, thereby improving the charging efficiency. This can increase torque by up to 10 percent at around 3,000 rpm compared to a conventional manifold injection type turbo engine, making powerful, easy-to-control torque available across a wide range of engine speeds. This high power flat torque curve is attained by the use of a fixed geometry turbocharger.

The internal cooling effect within the combustion chamber increases the cylinder charge volume under initial acceleration and hence the exhaust-gas flow, causing a linear increase in rotation speed of the turbocharger's compressor wheel. As a result, the turbocharger provides boost effect soon after the accelerator is pressed at around 2,500 rpm assuring excellent response at low to mid-engine speeds.

High-pressure direct injection of fuel into the cylinder also results in an optimized air-fuel mixture forming in the vicinity of the spark plug, reducing the risk of misfire. This allows earlier ignition, making it easy to raise the temperature of the exhaust gas. Moreover, use of a lightweight, fixed geometry turbocharger dramatically reduces the thermal capacity of the exhaust system, minimizing the loss in temperature of exhaust gas. As a result, the catalytic converter reaches its activation temperature faster after the engine is started. These advantages enable Mazda3 MPS to meet Euro Stage IV emissions regulations.

Because the internal cooling effect within the combustion chamber reduces knocking tendencies and boosts fuel economy without sacrificing low-end torque, the MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo engine has a relatively high compression ratio for a turbo engine of 9.5:1 which contributes to improved fuel economy.

The form and materials used for the respective engine components are optimized to bear the added load and heat of the increased output. The cylinder block and cylinder head are optimally shaped to increase their strength. In addition, cross drilling between the block liners and between the valve bridges on the cylinder head improves cooling performance. All moving parts have been made stronger and more rigid. The crankshaft is made of steel, and the diameter of the crank pins is increased. Connecting rods are also made of steel, and the shape of the rods is optimized. Full-floating pistons are used with increased-diameter pins. The shape of the radiator fan blades has also been optimized, the capacity of the electric fan motor increased and a flap function added to the fan shroud controls the adequate airflow to the radiator. These measures greatly improve the radiator's cooling performance at all engine speeds.

For Mazda3 MPS, the development team fine-tuned both the engine and exhaust system to produce a sporty sound that enhances driving pleasure. Tuning of the exhaust system focused on sounds in the low frequency range, while tuning of engine sound focused on the mid frequency range produced at high engine speeds to deliver an enjoyably sporty sound. A powerful exhaust note is hit the moment the engine is started, and a pleasurable sound sustained in sync with accelerator pedal input as the car gains speed.

High-level Torque Management
A wide range of optimizations give this high-power, high-torque FWD vehicle greater ease of use with more comfortable driveability and handling. volume and boost pressure control suppress sudden torque peaks, assuring smooth, linear torque delivery. Additionally, torque characteristics from first through fourth gears are optimized to deliver appropriate drive power from take off. Torque control is also linked to the steering angle, and the stiffness of the left and right drive shafts is balanced with the angles optimized to control torque steer. A newly-developed limited slip differential is also adopted to provide ample torque to the inner wheel during hard cornering for smooth, predictable driving in the curve.

Six-Speed Manual Transmission
The new Mazda3 MPS employs the six-speed manual transmission introduced with the Mazda6 MPS that provides the driver with the pleasure of having full control over the vehicles high power, while contributing to a quiet ride and better fuel economy. A compact three-shaft design made it possible to keep the overall length the same as for the five-speed manual transmission used in the base model. In addition, Mazda3 MPSs six-speed transmission uses wide gear ratios to fully exploit the wide
torque band of the direct-injection turbocharged engine. The transmissions high-ratio sixth gear contributes to a quieter ride and improves fuel economy during high-speed cruising. Triple-cone synchronizers for first through third gears and a double-cone synchronizer for fourth gear assure ample sync capacity to enable a short, clean-action shift stroke and comfortable shift feel.

High Body Rigidity and Specially Tuned Chassis
Like the Mazda3 facelift, the new Mazda3 MPS features a body with greater rigidity than the original model. The MPS version is based on the Mazda3 5-door hatchback, with local reinforcements added to realize a body sufficiently stiff and robust to stand up to the extra demands of sporty driving. Suspension and brakes have also been specially tuned for the MPS. These improvements assure a body and chassis capable of easily handling the extremely high power delivered by the MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo engine.

Body rigidity has been increased by several features, including a reinforced front cowl member that is joined directly to a plate in the top section of the front damper mount, assuring the same rigidity as a car fitted with strut tower bars. This prevents deformation of the front suspension towers and maintains correct suspension geometry. In the lower body, a large closed section member is employed to reinforce the floor tunnel which improves the torsional rigidity of whole body. At the rear, the gusset introduced at the bottom end of the rear suspension towers restrains the tendency of the towers to displace inwards which maintains the correct suspension geometry in the rear.

Specially Tuned Suspension gives 60 Percent Improvement in Roll Stiffness
Special suspension tuning was conducted to support the high power output of Mazda3 MPSs engine. Both the MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension have higher coil spring rates and larger diameter stabilizer bars than the Mazda3 facelift. Dampers also have a higher damping force on the MPS. Damping force on both jounce and rebound is approximately 6 times better at low piston speed, and about 1.3 times better at moderate piston speed. Combined with the reinforced coil springs and stabilizer bars, this produces 60 percent more roll stiffness than the Mazda3 facelift.


Comparison of Suspension Specifications

Mazda3 MPS Mazda3 Facelift
Front Rear Front Rear
Coil spring rate 33 N/mm 30 N/mm 23 N/mm 23 N/mm
Stabilizer diameter 26 mm 25 mm 21 mm 20 mm
Roll stiffness 2.18 deg/G 3.47 deg/G

Continued:


Aerodynamics Engineered for Speeds of up to 250 km/h
With its exceptional performance, Mazda3 MPS demands exceptional aerodynamics. Special attention was paid to reducing drag to enable a top speed of 250 km/h*, and to achieving aerodynamic performance that supports stable straight running, lane changing and overtaking manoeuvres at high speeds. A wide variety of underfloor parts were employed, to achieve the superior aerodynamic performance targets (Cd=0.31).

Focus on Safety Upgraded Brake System to Match the High Power
The starting point for Mazda3 MPS safety package was to preserve the accurate, predictable handling of the original Mazda3. Large diameter 4-wheel disc brakes, ventilated 320 mm discs at front and solid 280 mm discs at rear, a 8+9-inch tandem brake booster and a large 1-inch diameter master cylinder yield powerful and stable braking. Standard equipment includes 4W-ABS, emergency brake assist, and dynamic stability control (DSC), all of which provide active safety for the MPS in a range of driving scenarios. In addition, a rain-sensing wiper system and auto light system are also available (depending on market and grade) to give the driver a clear view of the road and help prevent accidents.

For protection during collision from any direction, Mazda3 MPS employs the unique Mazda Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System to deliver a robust and safe body structure. Inside the cabin, front dual airbags are fitted as standard, along with side and curtain airbags. A collapsible brake pedal and revised steering column structure reduce the risk of injury to the driver's lower legs, while a seat belt reminder system, which confirms whether seatbelts are buckled or not, is also included to support the safety of the front and rear occupants.

Mazda3 MPS Technical Specifications

MZR DISI 2.3L Turbo
Engine Type Inline 4-cylinder,
DOHC turbo petrol
Displacement cm3 2261
Bore x stroke mm 87.5 x 94.0
Valves 4 per cylinder
Max. power* -kW more than 184 at 5500 rpm
-PS more than 250 at 5500 rpm
Max. torque* -Nm 380 at 3000 rpm
Fuel type Unleaded 98RON
Emission control system 3-way catalytic converter
Emissions ranking Euro Stage IV
Transmission 6-speed manual
Powertrain Front engine, front-wheel drive
Gear Ratios
1st 3.538
2nd 2.238
3rd 1.535
4th 1.171
5th 1.085
6th 0.853
Final drive ratio (1st - 4th) 3.941
Final drive ratio (5th 6th) 3.350
Reverse 3.831
Performance
Top Speed** km/h 250
Acceleration***
0-100 km/h (sec) 6.1
50-100 km/h in 3rd gear (sec) 4.2
80-120 km/h in 5th gear (sec) 5.4
Fuel consumption*
Combined l/100 km 9.7


* Mazda targets subject to change upon homologation
** Electronically limited
*** Under Mazda test conditions

MZR DISI 2.3L Turbo
Suspension and Wheels
Front suspension MacPherson independent struts
Rear suspension Independent multi-link
Wheel size 18x7J
Tyre size 215/45R18 93Y
Brakes
Type front Ventilated discs
Type rear Solid discs
Diameter front (mm) 320
Diameter rear (mm) 280



Mazda3 MPS Dimensions

Mazda3 MPS
Body Type Monocoque
Seating capacity 5
Seat type 2 individual front
3 bench type rear
External Dimensions
Overall length w/license
plate holder (mm) 4435
Overall width (mm) 1765
Overall height (mm) 1465
Wheelbase (mm) 2640
Front tread (mm) 1530
Rear tread (mm) 1515

Full details on the Mazda3 refresh from the press release:

Exterior Design Two Body Styles, Two Distinct Personalities
Adding to the emotional personality of its predecessor, the Mazda3 facelift 4-door sedans image of modern elegance is further enhanced. Redesigned bumpers provide a massive look and a chrome bar on the front grille expresses a high quality feel. For the 5-door hatchback, the grille's upper bar is body coloured and further refines the origi-nals smartly energetic Zoom-Zoom styling. In addition, 15, 16 and 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels have all been redesigned. Sports appearance package (SAP) equipment and selected options are also available to give both the 4-door and 5-door versions a more athletic look: the 4-door SAP promotes a feeling of stability, while the 5-door SAP is the sportiest model in the Mazda3 facelift line up and exudes a youthful personality.

Interior Design
Particular attention was paid to improving interior quality. Two interior colour schemes are planned, depending on grade and market, a grey interior colour for a feeling of high-class sporty refinement, and a sports-oriented black interior. Both interior colour packages received newly designed white cluster meters and a stylish piano black decoration panel.

The Sports Grade (depending on market) with black interior and blackout type meters includes a decorative insert finished with a hairline treatment in the instrument panel to communicate even more high quality and sportiness.

More Mature Driving Attributes and a More Refined Ride
Mazda engineers began work on bolsteringMazda3's highly-regarded dynamic perfor-mance immediately after the original model launch, with the aim of improving fuel economy, ride comfort and quietness. To achieve this, engines and transmissions were upgraded to deliver a livelier, more comfort-able drive supported by ample torque. In addition to improving Mazda3 facelifts handling stability, ease of operation and ride quality, Mazda also achieved further reductions in noise and vibration.

The MZR 2.0-litre petrol engine produces 110kW/150 PS of maximum power at 6,500 rpm* and maximum torque of 187 Nm at 4,000 rpm*.It adopts high-accuracy electronic throttle control for the first time, along with newly introduced sequential valve timing(S-VT).Optimal adjustment of the engine's intakevalve operation in response to running conditions achieves high charging efficiency. Together with a variable induction system(VIS), this allows the engine to achieve powerful torque throughout the whole revrange. The MZR 1.6-litre petrol engine with a maximum power output of 77 kW/105 PS at6,000 rpm* and maximum torque of 145 Nm at4,000 rpm* retains the same S-VT and VIS as the original model, and is calibrated to further improve fuel efficiency. The base MZR 1.4-litrepetrol engine produces 62 kW/84 PS of maxi-mum power at 6,000 rpm* and 122 Nm of maximum torque at 4,000 rpm* (depending onmarket offer). This engine is given modified valve timing based on the S-VT already employed. This heightens charging efficiency at low engine speeds without sacrificing power in the higher engine speed range to give ample torque at low and middle engine speeds for powerful, easy driving.

The MZ-CD 1.6-litre diesel engine remains in the Mazda3 facelift line up for Europe. Two versions are available with maximum power outputs of 66 kW/90 PS and 80 kW/109 PS at 4,000 rpm* and maximum torque of 215 Nm and 240 Nm at just 1,750 rpm* respectively (90 PS depending on market offer). Both deliver an exceptional balance of power, low fuel consumption and emissions, and low NVH. Both of these DOHC 16- valve engines feature aluminium construction for low weight,

along with a 160 MPa ultra-high pressure common-rail injection system. The standard powered diesel employs a fixed geometry turbocharger and the higher powered diesel employs a variable geometry turbocharger and also a diesel particulate filter.

The MZR 2.0-litre petrol engine is available with a newly-introduced six-speed manual transmission. Triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears and double-cone synchronizers for third and fourth gears assure ample sync capacity for a light, crisp shift feel and predictable operation. Gear ratios between third and sixth gears are set close to provide better, stress-free passing acceleration at high speeds. The sixth gear functions as overdrive and contributes to improved quietness at high speed as well as better fuel economy.

The standard five-speed manual transmission for the MZR 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrols has been further refined throughout, and clutch operating feel has been improved. The MZR 1.6-litre petrol engine is also available with an electronically controlled, four-speed automatic transmission (depending on market).

The sound of the engine is one of the important elements affecting the vehicles fun-to-drive aspects, as well as good acceleration and gear shift feel. Mazda3 facelift petrol models have higher-rigidity drive shaft mountings to reduce the droning sound generated at high engine speeds and the alternator mounted on the MZR 2.0-litre petrol engine is specifically designed to reduce its operating noise. These measures result in a linear acceleration feel up to high engine speeds.

Further Evolution of Mazda3s Acclaimed Body and Chassis
The Mazda3 facelifts body shell has been upgraded by bolstering local rigidity for an even stiffer, safer body and even sportier handling and firm ride quality. The suspension system has been optimized to further reinforce Mazda3s acclaimed Zoom-Zoom handling, while still achieving a refined and comfortable ride. Mazda3 facelifts MacPherson strut front suspension has improved damper performance and has been tuned to improve steering response and reduce understeer during high-speed cornering. The multi-link rear suspension ensures improved rear-end stability during high-speed cornering.

Improved Aerodynamics
To further enhance Mazda3 facelift's exciting dynamic performance, the aerodynamics team focused on reducing high-speed drag and improving stability. In particular, they worked to improve underfloor aerodynamics, achieving superior aerodynamic performance (for the 5-door hatchback, Cd = 0.30). In addition to contributing to better fuel economy and improved high-speed acceleration, Mazda3 facelifts upgraded aerodynamics contribute to even more exceptional handling stability, with predictable straight line driving and high-speed lane changing.

Improved Quietness
Further evolving the Zoom-Zoom driving enjoyment of the Mazda3 facelift included isolating road noise and reducing wind noise during high-speed driving. Measures taken include expanding the use of bonnet-under-side insulation to more models, revising tyres, bolstering rim rigidity, improving suspension vibration characteristics, and installing sound-absorbing material in the cabin roof of all models.

New Features for Even More Comfort and Ease-of-Use
The Mazda3 facelift employs several new features for improved comfort and ease-of-use. An advanced keyless entry and start system is introduced (depending on market and grade). Simply carrying a card-type key allows the driver to lock and unlock the doors, the boot or rear hatch, and start and stop the engine by turning the starter knob. In addition, the advanced key's lock/unlock button and outer door handle request switch enable opening or closing all windows from outside the car. In hot sunshine the car can be ventilated, or a window left open can be closed, without having to get back into the car. The Mazda3 facelifts integrated audio system includes a 20 GB hard disk drive with capacity to store up to approximately 3000 tracks recorded from CDs, as well as a CD player and AM/FM tuner (depending on market offer).

High Levels of Safety
The Mazda3 facelifts standard active safety package includes four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated 278 mm discs at the front and solid 265 mm discs at the rear (for the MZR 2.0-litre, 300 mm at the front and 280 mm at the rear), 4W-ABS, EBD and emergency brake assist. Dynamic stability control (DSC) is also available for stable handling. In addition, auto light and rain-sensing wiper systems help to maintain clear visibility of the road in bad weather and during night driving.

Mazda3 facelifts passive safety systems feature a rigid body shell that provides exceptional collision safety. For occupant protection, front dual airbags are standard, and side and curtain airbags are available as well (depending on market and grade). In addition, the shape of the tilt and telescopic steering column adjustment lever is modified, and impact-absorbing material is installed to the steering column, to help reduce the possibility of injury to the drivers knees. A collapsible brake pedal helps reduce the risk of lower leg injury in a frontal collision, and both the front and rear seats have a seatbelt reminder to confirm whether seatbelts are buckled or not.

For those of you who haven't figured it out, the power numbers converted to not metric (English?)

Torque: 280 lbs.-ft.

HP: ~247 hp


....Not sure that I'm digging the fog lights on the sedan redesign

Talk about ironic! We've been clamoring for some info on this car for what seems like years. Now that it's finally available, I almost feel like we have TOO much info! Does anyone have the crip notes on this bad boy?

Seriously though... good work! No clue how you got this info so fast but hats off.

eting_pro5 said:

For those of you who haven't figured it out, the power numbers converted to not metric (English?)

Torque: 280 lbs.-ft.

HP: ~247 hp


....Not sure that I'm digging the fog lights on the sedan redesign

Click to expand...

the fog lights blow. they're going old school (well... late 90s protege) with that look. those power numbers seem pretty damn good though!

CHICO2003 said:

Talk about ironic! We've been clamoring for some info on this car for what seems like years. Now that it's finally available, I almost feel like we have TOO much info! Does anyone have the crip notes on this bad boy?

Seriously though... good work! No clue how you got this info so fast but hats off.

Click to expand...

The all-new Mazda3 MPS takes its place as the flagship of the Mazda3 facelift line up and is the second MPS sports model after the Mazda6 MPS, launched just two months ago in Europe. The Mazda3 MPS has a distinctly MPS design that combines a refined, yet strong and sporty road presence that is carried over into the interior with look and feel that evolves Mazda craftsmanship and quality even further. Mazda3 MPS is outfitted with Mazdas 2.3-litre DISI* Turbo petrol engine in a front engine, front-wheel drive (FWD) layout that produces more than 184 kW/250 PS at 5,500 rpm** and maximum torque of 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm**. This not only makes Mazda3 MPS one of the most powerful and responsive compact sports models with FWD, it combines this with a stiffer body shell and a suspension with 60 percent improvement in roll stiffness versus the Mazda3 facelift standard model for superior Zoom-Zoom handling attributes. Mazdas petrol direct injection technology not only makes the new Mazda3 MPS powerful, it is also Euro Stage IV compliant with fuel consumption levels that are particularly good for a car with this kind of performance.

Wongpres is the MAN x10!!!

yeah i am not sure about thesedan redesign. i would have to see it in person.
They changed soemthing about the hood and the grill, butsomething doesnt look quite right, i feel like it lost some aggressivenes(sp?). it looks milder to me, but i could be biased because i hate the fact that the MS3 is only coming as a hatch.
I do like the wheels a little more than our current stocks.

Holy Horsepower batman. Thats alot of power in that little rocket. I smell a direct attack at the SRT-4 (no longer produced 05 was the last year)

I like the dark one, but I wont get one right away. No AWD, so Ill pick one up used in a few years if I dont get the Challenger.

I don't know...I keep looking at it...It's growing on me fast...It already has a really nice stance from the factory (could be euro specific suspension?) and the front end is more refined. I can already imagine what a modified one may look like and I'm liking what I see

well we all know that we are gonna have to wait at least 6 months before it would hit the states. They gotta sell off all the MS6's I would assume.

So much power going to the front wheel. I hope they make AWD optional.

Mp5978 said:

So much power going to the front wheel. I hope they make AWD optional.

Click to expand...

(hand)