The Mazda3 MPS has a rich history in the hot-hatch world, but executives of the Japanese brand has confirmed we will never see a revival of this model.
Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi has confirmed to Drive that any chances of a Mazda3 MPS revival are dead in the water. This confirmation follows a rumour suggesting that the Japanese brand was planning a 200 kW turbocharged project set to inherit the ‘Spirit Racing’ badge. He also killed any idea that the American specification, featuring a 186 kW 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and all-wheel drive, will not be getting a right-hand-drive production run.
Demand plays a role in Mazda’s decision to not consider a fully fledged hot hatch version of the Mazda3, but strict emissions regulations also play a major role. While the idea of a future Mazda3 MPS is appealing, the firm is unable to get the numbers for it to make any financial sense.
What made the Mazda3 MPS such an impactful hot hatch?
The Mazda3 MPS debuted locally in 2007 as a flagship hot hatch designed to challenge segment benchmarks like the Volkswagen Golf GTI. Based on the first-generation, BK-series hatchback, it featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre MZR DISI petrol engine sending 184 kW and 380 N.m of torque to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and a torque-sensing limited-slip differential.
Mazda introduced the second generation to the South African market in 2009, featuring aggressive styling changes such as a distinctive bonnet scoop. The BL-series also adopted upgraded chassis tuning. Power output rose slightly, to 191 kW, while torque remained unchanged, at 380 N.m. Mazda claimed a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 6.1 seconds. Production of the badge concluded globally in 2013, leaving a legacy as one of the most powerful front-wheel-drive hot hatchbacks of its era.
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