Hardware upgrades
It's not electronic gadgets that make a car fast, so the sure delivers in the hardware department too. The latest version gets revised gear ratios for its six-speed box, as well as a heavily-revamped suspension bolted beneath a stiffer body.

The tester managed to out-accelerate an upgraded first-generation Speed3 on one of the track’s long straights. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com)

The 2.3-litre turbo engine and its power output remain effectively the same for heavier 2010 model, meaning there’s a slightly porkier power to weight ratio. This isn’t ideal for overall performance, but Mazda says the extensive handling tweaks should more than cover it.

Even with the same 263 horsepower, the tester managed to out-accelerate an upgraded first-generation Speed3 on one of the track’s long straights. Said straight sections are only half the fun in this car, possibly less.

Exemplary front-drive manners
Tossed, the Speed3 rolls minimally, understeers predictably and clamps down tightly on any corner it's pointed at. It takes a set the instant it’s turned, and exhibits movements that are stable, consistent and un-intimidating. Steering is quick, and it’s pleasing how enthusiastically the front end cuts in and gets to work guiding things flatly around turns.

This is a front-drive torque-monster, though. Dunlops ignite on command when powering out of a bend, and a wet track requires frustratingly gentle throttle application on corner exit. Of course, these characteristics are mainly by-products of the snappy, virtually lag-free pulling power available between the twisty stuff.

Stability control mainly engages to limit wheel-spin where it would otherwise become excessive. The system intervenes very subtly, rather than with aggressive throttle-cutting, brake-jamming corrections. Left switched on, most drivers won’t get the impression the computer is stepping on their toes.

Brake feel could be better, but the calipers clamp down with near-nil fade and maximum authority, lap after lap. This is especially true on courses with a rotor-cooling, high-speed section.

After several hard hours of track use, the Speed3 had performed flawlessly, and left me thinking it could be enjoyed by novice and expert drivers alike. Lapping mileage will average about 30L / 100km, though real-world driving should average about a third of that.

It’s pleasing how enthusiastically the front end cuts in and gets to work guiding things flatly around turns. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com)