Mazda Hasn't Confirmed a New 300-HP AWD Mazdaspeed3, Despite Japanese Report

Key Takeaways

• A Japanese report suggests a hotter Mazda3 could arrive in 2027.
• An upgraded 2.5-liter turbo is reportedly under consideration.
• Neither 300 horsepower nor an AWD setup have been confirmed.
• The Mazda Spirit Racing badge may be used for a potential performance variant.
• Mazda has not commented on the report.

What’s Behind the Rumors?

The Japanese report from MotorFan suggests that Mazda may be considering a production version of the Mazda Spirit Racing 3 concept unveiled in 2024.

This concept was designed to showcase Mazda’s performance capabilities, and it’s possible that the company may be exploring the idea of a hotter Mazda3.

However, it’s essential to note that Mazda has not confirmed any of the details, and the report should be taken as speculative at this point.

Powertrain Possibilities

The report mentions that an upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine could be in the works.

This engine is already used in some overseas versions of the Mazda3, producing up to 250 PS (186 kW) and 320 lb-ft (434 Nm) of torque.

While it’s possible that Mazda could extract more power from this engine, there’s no confirmation of the 300-hp figure mentioned in the report.

AWD and Transmission Speculation

The report also suggests that an AWD setup could be used in the potential Mazdaspeed3.

However, Mazda’s current AWD system is front-wheel drive-biased, and it’s unclear whether the company would opt for a more advanced AWD system for a performance variant.

Additionally, there’s no mention of a transmission, which leaves the possibility of a manual or automatic gearbox open to speculation.

Mazda Spirit Racing Badging

The report suggests that the Mazda Spirit Racing badge could be used for a potential performance variant.

This badge has already been used on a limited-production model, the Spirit Racing Roadster, and it’s possible that Mazda may use it again for a hotter Mazda3.

No Comment from Mazda

Mazda has not commented on the report, and it’s unclear whether the company is actively working on a Mazdaspeed3 successor.

While the report is intriguing, it’s essential to take it as speculative until Mazda confirms any details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Has Mazda confirmed a new Mazdaspeed3?

No, Mazda has not confirmed a new Mazdaspeed3. The report from MotorFan is speculative, and the company has not commented on the matter.

Q: What engine could be used in a potential Mazdaspeed3?

The report suggests that an upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine could be used, but there’s no confirmation of the engine’s specifications.

Q: Would a Mazdaspeed3 be a good competitor to the Toyota GR Corolla?

While a Mazdaspeed3 could potentially compete with the Toyota GR Corolla, it’s unclear whether Mazda is actively working on a performance variant.