As for the list of features, Mazda was very generous but did not commit any excess. And since the 2010 Mazdaspeed3 comes in single trim level only, the selection won't be a head-scratcher.

Power is delivered pretty quickly upon throttle input and is met with a sound that will excite drivers.

A revitalized powertrain
Of course, the top priority for Mazdaspeed buyers will always be performance - and rest assured the company knows it. That's why the small but enthusiastic 2.3-litre turbocharged engine resumes life under the hood of this 3. The direct injection system has been refined to improve fuel delivery and pressure, which results in maximum power, optimum combustion and greater cooling efficiency. On one hand, you benefit from 263 horsepower and 280 pounds-feet of torque, while on the other hand, my tester's average fuel economy hovered around 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres. Now that's a happy combination!

Power is delivered pretty quickly upon throttle input and is met with a sound that will excite drivers on the track. On public roads, however, the loud exhaust note becomes irritating over time and serves as a vivid reminder of the car's sporty aspirations.

The 6-speed manual gearbox (the only transmission available) is lively, direct and rewarding thanks to nicely-calibrated gear ratios. Add the engine's lack of inertia (revs go up and down in a hurry) and you got yourself the perfect tool to successfully perform heel-and-toe shifting.

As for the electro-hydraulic steering, it does a good job of transmitting feedback from the road. It also grants the driver plenty of freedom with no excessive interference.

The electronic driving aids are just as sharp and effective, knowing exactly when to step in i.e. as late as possible. They sure required some getting used to under the rain, though.

Finally, it's hard to overlook the excellent work done by Mazda engineers in the design and calibration of the suspension. The ride is pleasantly firm on the track (enough to keep body roll in check during slaloms) and ideally balanced for driving around town and on the countryside. Passenger comfort is not really compromised.

The 6-speed manual gearbox is lively, direct and rewarding thanks to nicely-calibrated gear ratios.