The newly designed 2010 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 is a souped-up, powerful modification of the famous hatchback, the Mazda3. Its singular trim, the Sport 4-Door Hatchback, comes to you with a 2.3L turbocharged I4 engine that cranks out 263 horses at 5500 RPM and a back-pinning 280 lb-ft of torque at just 3000 RPM. It is front wheel driven and features an all new 6-speed manual gearbox. EPA estimations for fuel efficiency are reported at 18/25 MPG. A 15.9 gallon fuel tank filled will allow you to travel more than 350 miles between fuel stops.

The Mazdaspeed3 from Mazda for 2010 also features a limited-slip differential, electronic traction and stability control systems, a suspension system tuned for spirited driving, a system for torque management, 18 inch wheels and tire pressure monitoring. It doesn't skimp on standard safety features either. Active head restraints, 4-wheel ABS braking with brake assist, six airbags and a remote system for immobilizing the engine are all included. Optional features for luxury and safety include a Bose audio system, remote keyless entry, push button starting, satellite radio, perimeter alarm and a high tech navigational system.

When you witness the feature-rich, excellent engineering standards of the 2010 Mazdaspeed3, you will have no problem justifying the $23,195 base price. Further, when you compare it to the Chevrolet Camaro, Hyundai Genesis Coupe and Ford Mustang, you will be even more impressed. This is no little Miata. External measurements are 177.6 inches in length, 69.7 inches in width and 57.5 inches in height. Its 3245 pound curb weight is hauled on top of its 103.9 inch wheelbase.

The Mazda Mazdaspeed3 is also not a Lincoln Navigator, but it does offer adequate spaciousness on the interior. Only the super-tall could not appreciate 39 inches of headroom, 55 inches of shoulder room, 54 inches of hip room and 42 inches of legroom. Golf clubs, groceries and other cargo are efficiently transported in the 17.0 cubic feet of luggage space located under the hatch. And don't forget, this vehicle has a standard seating configuration designed to accommodate five adults.

Feel the surprising power and experience the excellent handling ability presented by test driving a 2010 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 soon. You're bound to be impressed by the well-thought combination of safety, power, speed and good looks. And don't be afraid to get on it - that's what test driving is all about!