Mazda's hottest hatch

Hot hatches are big news right now, so Mazda isn't wasting any time before it releases the hot MPS version of its newly designed 3 hatchback. Geneva marks the new car's world debut.

What's all the fuss about?

Yup, Mazda is sticking with front-wheel drive only for its well-endowed hot hatch. The tried and tested 2.3-litre turbocharged engine from the previous generation model has been carried over virtually unchanged, which means peak power of 256bhp and maximum torque of 280lb.ft. That translates into a top speed of 155mph and a tyre-smoking 0-62mph time of 6.1 seconds.

Anything that stands out?

Its looks for a start. Mazda has finally began to apply some of its concept car cool to showroom models and the new 3 hatchback's face owes a lot to some of the company's show models over the past couple of years. In MPS flavour, the already pretty shape is beefed up with a body kit and a none-too-subtle bonnet scoop to feed the engine air. Mazda promises that the new 3 MPS will be better to drive than ever before, thanks to an uprated chassis, bigger brakes and the standard fitment of a limited slip differential.

When can I buy one?

We're not entirely sure. Given the level of detail in Mazda's press release, there's no doubt that the car is ready to go, so expect a launch before the summer, with sales starting soon after. The price is likely to hover around the £19,000 tag of the current car.

Shane O' Donoghue