Mazda MPS pocket rocket gets its own identity

The new Mazda3 MPS is a turbocharged shopping basket bashing out 190kW.

Mazda has given its second-generation MPS hatchback a "go-faster" look after criticism the outgoing model looked too much like a mainstream Mazda3.

A bonnet scoop, larger rear spoiler and flared wheel arches give the car that is the quickest in the Mazda range a muscular, in-your-face look. It now has its own identity, like the WRX in the Subaru Impreza line-up and the Evolution X among Mitsubishi Lancer offerings.

The Mazda3-based MPS has more refined road manners, with revisions that include reining in the torque steer that blunted the power-down performance of the first-generation model. "It runs a lot truer," says Mazda New Zealand technical chief Roger Russell of the new model's revised steering and suspension set-up.

Mazda launched the MPS on the Pukekohe racetrack 48 hours ago. Its 2.3-litre direct-injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine punches out the same 190kW/380Nm as the original but delivers it to the 18-inch front wheels via a revised six-speed manual gearbox.

Engineers have remapped the engine's control unit, improved the oil filter and adopted different spark plugs for better performance higher in the rev range. The air-intake scoop in the bonnet also improves the role of the intercooler.

A new exhaust system and other noise-dampening aids help to "quieten the whole car down", says Russell.

The body is stronger thanks to more high-strength steels and a more substantial rear frame. The car is bigger (75mm longer, 5mm wider) and, with a kerb weight of 1470kg, is around 50kg heavier than the original - but it sprints from zero to 100km/h in the same 6.1 seconds.

The MPS also gains extra equipment over its predecessor, including multi-function display, keyless entry, and adaptive front headlights. Safety equipment runs to six airbags and all the usual electronic braking and stability systems. Electronic brake assist (EBA) replaces the previous mechanical system.

Mazda NZ aims to average about six sales a month with the new model, which comes in four exterior colours and is priced at $48,545 plus on-road costs.