Considering buying a 2011 Speed3

[andhicks]

Hi All,

I've pretty much made up my mind that I'm buying the 2011 Mazdaspeed 3 with the tech package.

I do however have some concerns, and would appreciate some feedback and advice.

I just finished a 4 year lease of the RX-8 and loved it, and basically now need a more practical car, without losing performance.

My concerns rest with winter driving (how is this puppy in the snow?) I live in Newfoundland. Also what is this torque steer issue? Is it really that bad? I've even heard it called dangerous?

Other advice/input would be appreciated as well.

Thanks!
Andrew

[Kinn]

With good winter tires and traction control it's not much worse then other front wheel cars

[WeatherB]

With good winter tires and traction control it's not much worse then other front wheel cars

I second that, and would actually say that it's better than other front wheel drive cars because of the limited slip which will help in slippery conditions... And this is coming from a guy who just went through his first winter with an AWD car.

Just make sure you buy some aggressive winter tires. I had the Hankook iPike on my Speed3 and never had problems with winter driving.

Torque steer is when you floor the car and the steering wheel wants to pull to one side. I wouldn't call it dangerous, just make sure you are holding onto the steering wheel when you are flooring the car, which you should be doing anyways.

He's a review that sort of shows the torque steer, skip to the 3:00 mark. Although best would be for you to go on a test drive and experience the car for yourself:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaHDjtOhJiU

[Queue]

Just take it easy off the line. No reason to be aggressive from stop in winter time anyways. Plus, if you still feel too much torque from 1st gear off the line, try starting from 2nd.

[SonicBoy]

Great review. I see they did this down at the Scarbrorough Bluffer's park.

[McGuyver_3]

I ran the 205 last winter and had lots of wheel spin even with traction on. Yes I had proper winter tires pirelli snow sports, however I had 16s. Where my friend (also speed owner) ran 17's on his with a 225 and he was fine

[Elusivellama]

Hi All,

I've pretty much made up my mind that I'm buying the 2011 Mazdaspeed 3 with the tech package.

I do however have some concerns, and would appreciate some feedback and advice.

I just finished a 4 year lease of the RX-8 and loved it, and basically now need a more practical car, without losing performance.

My concerns rest with winter driving (how is this puppy in the snow?)


I had no problems with 16" steelies and Hankook iPike W409s (205/60/16). Those are not performance winter tires so the rubber compound is a bit softer.



I live in Newfoundland. Also what is this torque steer issue? Is it really that bad? I've even heard it called dangerous?

Other advice/input would be appreciated as well.

Thanks!
Andrew

This torque steer is something that so-called reviewers like to throw into their reviews in order to give it a bit more spice. They see other reviewers talking about torque steer, so they figure that they have to say something about it or risk looking like they don't know anything. It gets exaggerated for effect, sometimes ridiculously so... like "the torque steer monster rears its head" and "We had one gripe and we know what you're thinking... high powered FWD car equals torque steer".

That doesn't mean this car doesn't have torque steer (as described above), but I only notice it as a slight tugging of the wheel even under hard acceleration on the on-ramps. I don't really notice it when I have both hands on the wheel (like anybody should when accelerating hard), and I'm still going in a straight line or on the slight curve of the on-ramp.

Start in 1st or 2nd, both hands on the wheel at 3 and 9 and gun it to 5.5k, upshift quickly, both hands back on the wheel and keep it in the power band between 4 - 5.5k, upshift again ~ repeat until you are satisfied, or run out of gears, or get pulled over :P Mazda engineers have stated that they didn't want to get rid of torque steer entirely because they wanted the car to convince its driver that it had a powerful engine - so they mitigated it to that slight tugging that you barely feel when boosting hard. Unless you have both hands off the steering wheel, it won't be an issue.

Another thing you might hear about is the abrupt clutch on these cars. Some describe it as a hair trigger clutch. Now, I don't know about these guys who drive everything between hot hatches up to expensive supercars and comment on them for a living, but it took me 10 mins max to learn the clutch and familiarize myself with the car. A couple hours later I was hill starting without any problems at all. I have only stalled the car three times - one time I was not paying attention while waiting for a turn signal at a light, the other two times I was being too gentle with the starts.

[horto]

Performance wise, you will be just as happy if not happier than with your RX-8. Maintenance will also be cheaper. And with 5 doors, it's far more practical. In the snow it is fine, just stay out of boost and you'll find that the LSD helps a lot. Snow tires are of course essential.

I don't know if you're buying or leasing, but I would expect you to be able to get a better deal on a 2010 than a 2011.

I've been told firsthand that the torque steer is much less an issue with the gen2's. (Though I don't find it an issue in my gen1)

[andhicks]

Thanks for the comments guys.

Unfortunately there isn't a car here in Newfoundland, so they will have to bring one in for me ($500 downpayment needed) as a result I'll be purchasing without test driving.

I really appreciated the feedback and advice. As well as easing my mind on my last few issues.

I'm more than likely pulling the trigger on a white one with Tech package!

Thanks,
Andrew

[miako]

Torque steer doesn't bother me at all... in fact I believe it adds excitement to a fabulous car....

[McGuyver_3]

I love how every reviewer complains about the GPS screen - apparently Mazda3 drivers are blind. (Sorry, off-topic.)

No i'm not blind but i have to say the nav screen is shitty. Look at every competitor out there, they are making cars with huge screens and mazda decides to make 2 seperate screens... HELLO why not just integrate the 2 and make it 1 decent sized screen?

[McGuyver_3]

I second that, and would actually say that it's better than other front wheel drive cars because of the limited slip which will help in slippery conditions... And this is coming from a guy who just went through his first winter with an AWD car.

Just make sure you buy some aggressive winter tires. I had the Hankook iPike on my Speed3 and never had problems with winter driving.

Torque steer is when you floor the car and the steering wheel wants to pull to one side. I wouldn't call it dangerous, just make sure you are holding onto the steering wheel when you are flooring the car, which you should be doing anyways.

He's a review that sort of shows the torque steer, skip to the 3:00 mark. Although best would be for you to go on a test drive and experience the car for yourself:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaHDjtOhJiU


torque steer- havent noticed it as bad as he claims it to be
starting price- 23749???? In the states yes but here in Canada not so much and the tech package comes with alot more then what he said it came with

[J.Dragan]

I've had my 2010 since November, 1) You will most definitely need a good set of winter tires, the rubber that comes with the car plain and simple SUCK in the snow. With winter tires you will not have any issues, unless your an animal behind the wheel. 2) You will not have any issues with torque steer unless your driving habits resemble that of a Formula 1 driver every time you get in the car.
What you will find is that your everyday commute to work and back will be a little more exciting than you are normally used to, Hwy on ramps, merging and passing are a breeze not to mention fun, the weekend cruise becomes a lot of fun on the right roads.
Just remember the little beast eats premium fuel, but if you've made your mind up on a Speed 3 then that's probably not an issue.
Enjoy your future purchase, hell I know I'm enjoying mine!!!!!!!!!!

[WeatherB]

Thanks for the comments guys.

Unfortunately there isn't a car here in Newfoundland, so they will have to bring one in for me ($500 downpayment needed) as a result I'll be purchasing without test driving.

I really appreciated the feedback and advice. As well as easing my mind on my last few issues.

I'm more than likely pulling the trigger on a white one with Tech package!

Thanks,
Andrew

Anyone locally have one that they can take you for a spin in?

I bought mine without a test drive too.

[WeatherB]

I've had my 2010 since November, 1) You will most definitely need a good set of winter tires, the rubber that comes with the car plain and simple SUCK in the snow. With winter tires you will not have any issues, unless your an animal behind the wheel. 2) You will not have any issues with torque steer unless your driving habits resemble that of a Formula 1 driver every time you get in the car.
What you will find is that your everyday commute to work and back will be a little more exciting than you are normally used to, Hwy on ramps, merging and passing are a breeze not to mention fun, the weekend cruise becomes a lot of fun on the right roads.
Just remember the little beast eats premium fuel, but if you've made your mind up on a Speed 3 then that's probably not an issue.
Enjoy your future purchase, hell I know I'm enjoying mine!!!!!!!!!!

Yup, because the car comes with performance summer tires.

[Sean80]

Just remember the little beast eats premium fuel, but if you've made your mind up on a Speed 3 then that's probably not an issue.


He's used to driving an RX-8, so it shouldn't be much different.

[Elusivellama]

He's used to driving an RX-8, so it shouldn't be much different.

If anything it will be better by about 4 - 5 mpgs on average

[gotak]

The torque steer is much worse i you are on the power and hits some bumps in a turn. It takes some getting used to. Hitting bumps while on power when it's wet or in winter with some snow or slush on the road can trigger the stability system to kick in. So it can be somewhat scary if you aren't expecting it.

Clutch well most of the time I am used to it but sometimes when tired or tense I still find myself doing bad shifts. The gear box and clutch cannot be rushed.

Winter's fine. Just don't do stupid things.

You'll like this car. All the testings by various car site or magazine seems to show the speed 3 is faster in every way than the RX-8. It's time for them to update the RX-8 I think.

[andhicks]

Thanks again guys, the dealer managed to get an owner in St. John's to come into the dealership with his car. I am meeting them in there tonight to have a look!

I do miss my Rx-8... but found the RWD poor in the winter. I also don't miss the gas bill. That thing DRANK the petrol! I'm assuming the Speed3 isn't nearly as bad. Obviously not good, but I simply want a sports car!

Can anyone comment on negotiating a price with the dealer? Its the only Mazda dealership on the island, and they'd have to specifically bring one in for me. Is 0% financing about the best I can hope for?

[J.Dragan]

Not sure if there is any rebates on the 2011 at this time of year or not, but I paid about $ 32 500.00 out the door. That was with rebates, very low dealer mark up, the loyalty program (not my 1st Mazda). I'd have to scrounge up the invoice to give you the exact total.
I used the APA for research and a quote, Jeff the biz at MOT actually came in at about $ 200.00 dollars less than my APA Quote, Jeff also notified me of an extra $1000.00 savings through a Mazda promotion. Too bad your not here in Toronto I think you would like Jeff's no BS policy.
APA stands for Automobile Protection Agency excellent program well worth the $65.00 dollar membership it cost me for their info, not sure if you have anything like an APA where you are.
Anyhow enjoy your ride, and don't think you have to make a deal tonight, do your research first it could save you thousands, better your pocket than the dealerships.

[MZR87]

Not sure if there is any rebates on the 2011 at this time of year or not, but I paid about $ 32 500.00 out the door. That was with rebates, very low dealer mark up, the loyalty program (not my 1st Mazda). I'd have to scrounge up the invoice to give you the exact total.
I used the APA for research and a quote, Jeff the biz at MOT actually came in at about $ 200.00 dollars less than my APA Quote, Jeff also notified me of an extra $1000.00 savings through a Mazda promotion. Too bad your not here in Toronto I think you would like Jeff's no BS policy.
APA stands for Automobile Protection Agency excellent program well worth the $65.00 dollar membership it cost me for their info, not sure if you have anything like an APA where you are.
Anyhow enjoy your ride, and don't think you have to make a deal tonight, do your research first it could save you thousands, better your pocket than the dealerships.

Was that with Tech package? or did you get a 2010?

[J.Dragan]

2010 loaded, I believe that's the only way it comes fully loaded unless they changed the package for 2011.

[SomeGuy]

2010's didn't have an optional tech package, they ALL came with the extra toys (MID, smart key, power memory seats, etc).

My brand new 2010 MS3 cost 24k + 8k trade for my old 3 out the door. That includes winter floor mats, lifetime rust proofing, clear bra, 4 year/100k extended warranty and winter tires on seperate rims (xice2's). So there are deals to be made if you're in the right place at the right time.

[andhicks]

Pulled the trigger! Thanks for all the feedback everyone!
They are bringing me in a MazdaSpeed3 from BC.
Any idea how long until it makes it to me in Newfoundland? I think its going by Train to Halifax. Then, boat to the island (obviously)

[gotak]

Pulled the trigger! Thanks for all the feedback everyone!
They are bringing me in a MazdaSpeed3 from BC.
Any idea how long until it makes it to me in Newfoundland? I think its going by Train to Halifax. Then, boat to the island (obviously)

:)

Did you get it with the tech package? Today after hearing my director make a fuss about a puncture on his Carrera S I talked to my fiancee who asked how much porsche costs. So I looked up and the base boxster is like 55k and has 255 HP and does 0-100 about the same time as a speed 3. I know that in general it's faster in the corners but it's nice to know we get something that performs quite close (and if you look up youtube videos of boxters vs speed 3 it's not a cake walk for a boxter to pass a speed 3 on a track) for much less.

Hope you enjoy your car!

[andhicks]

I did get the tech package. I like the additional features.
I'm pretty excited! I went with a red one. Will post a pic when it arrives!

[Polish_Eagle]

If you don't mind me asking, how much did you pay for the 2011 with tech package? I want to get a 2011 and the tech package would be nice, but the dealer doesn't appear to want to budge from MSRP.

[MZR87]

I'd like to know also

[J.Dragan]

Pulled the trigger! Thanks for all the feedback everyone!
They are bringing me in a MazdaSpeed3 from BC.
Any idea how long until it makes it to me in Newfoundland? I think its going by Train to Halifax. Then, boat to the island (obviously)
Congratulations brother and enjoy your new ride!!!!!!!!!
Welcome to the club!!!!
ZOOM ZOOM :huge smile

[Jeff-TheBiz]

but the dealer doesn't appear to want to budge from MSRP.

I never charge MSRP.. where are you located? NFLD as well?

[Polish_Eagle]

I never charge MSRP.. where are you located? NFLD as well?

I'm from Cambridge and I 100% want to buy a SPEED3 but Kieswetter, Lallo and Guelph Mazda all don't want to budge from MSRP and the minimal incentives. Send me with the current pricing I can expect to get from you and I may drive to T.O. to purchase the car from you.

Thanks!

[Impressive]

I'm from Cambridge and I 100% want to buy a SPEED3 but Kieswetter, Lallo and Guelph Mazda all don't want to budge from MSRP and the minimal incentives. Send me with the current pricing I can expect to get from you and I may drive to T.O. to purchase the car from you.

Thanks!

Talk to Jeff...It'll be the last trip you make.

OP, congratulations on the Speed3! Any changes on 2011s from the 2010 models?

[andhicks]

Hasn't arrived yet, so I can only comment on any changes I've read about.
I basically think the option to have the Tech package or not is the only change. Since I went with it, I assume mine is "fully loaded"

As they say the waiting is the hardest part! I'm hoping it arrives in Halifax in the next couple of days! I look forward to being a member here. I'll start with some pics soon!

[SomeGuy]

:)

Did you get it with the tech package? Today after hearing my director make a fuss about a puncture on his Carrera S I talked to my fiancee who asked how much porsche costs. So I looked up and the base boxster is like 55k and has 255 HP and does 0-100 about the same time as a speed 3. I know that in general it's faster in the corners but it's nice to know we get something that performs quite close (and if you look up youtube videos of boxters vs speed 3 it's not a cake walk for a boxter to pass a speed 3 on a track) for much less.

Hope you enjoy your car!

Yeah, but a Carrera S is a whole lot faster than a boxster...


And to the guy in cambridge...go to forbes waterloo mazda.

[Elusivellama]

Hasn't arrived yet, so I can only comment on any changes I've read about.
I basically think the option to have the Tech package or not is the only change. Since I went with it, I assume mine is "fully loaded"

I heard that the 2011s don't have side mirror mounted turn signals, and memory function for the power seats. However, a quick check of the Mazda Canada website tells me the following:

- the base Mazda 3s have lost the side mirror turn signals, but the MS3 still has them
- the MS3 has power driver's seat in the Tech Package, but there is no mention of memory function (3 different seating positions)

The MSRP for a 2011 MS3 with Tech Package is $32,135, a difference of $864 compared to the 2010 MS3 ($32,995). Is memory function worth $864, or at least a large chunk of that $864? It's all dependent on the owner.

Regardless... and I know this is not going to help your waiting anticipation much.... I believe you're still getting the best equipped, highest performing and most reliable FWD turbocharged compact available in this market segment.

I put in thorough research for almost a year on and off before I got my MS3, and I could write several paragraphs on why I passed over the GTI, Si, WRX and Ralliart (and Sentra Spec-V, but we won't talk about THAT one). Reliability and pricing were my two major criteria, and all the stuff I read here, on msf and other Mazda forums, reviews, etc. did not indicate any reliability issues. Inside Line's long term blog of their MS3 was a rather big factor in my decision to buy it: it was an endorsement of a car that handled well, had tons of power with smooth power delivery, experienced no defect-related problems for the time they had it, got decent gas mileage even when driven hard (22 - 23mpg, which is 9.7 - 10.6L/100km), rode well but without being too harsh, and was a practical hatchback.

[horto]

MS3 = cheap thrills :thumbsup

[lukel90]

I just bought a 2011 speed 3 as well and am picking it up tomorrow morning. I know what you must feel like it terms of the wait, i waiting almost a week for mine and it seemed like forever. Congrats on the new car...ill post pics of my black speed 3 tomorrow for anyone whoes interested. Im not even sure im going to sleep tonight.lo...And yeah the 2011 speed 3 has mirror turn signals, it just lost the memory seat as far as the tech package went. Congrats again..

[Jeff-TheBiz]

The MSRP for a 2011 MS3 with Tech Package is $32,135, a difference of $864 compared to the 2010 MS3 ($32,995). Is memory function worth $864, or at least a large chunk of that $864? It's all dependent on the owner.

The 2010 is still cheaper when you take off the $5000 plus tax rebate..

I can't believe I still have one here...

[harrbear]

The 2010 is still cheaper when you take off the $5000 plus tax rebate..

I can't believe I still have one here...

How much does it come out to with 5k rebate and loyalty program?

[Kris"Speed3"CWP]

the adaptive front lighting system with auto leveling, power driver seat, Sirius radio, Navigation, intelligent key system with push button start,6-disc cd with Bose sound.This is the Tech package. Plus the 2011 should have a temp light on the dash now and not sure if they have tire pressure monitors like the usa models yet?

[Kris"Speed3"CWP]

The Speed is Awesome just make sure you have the Nokian Hakkapalitta's as you can go no smaller than a 17" due to brakes, pick these up in buffalo save $$$$ Also the one biggest regret I have, is I did not lease the car as there are no consumer protection laws in Canada your shit out of luck with MCI. I am in my 7th month and still waiting for a fix for my speed to resolve fuel mixing with oil and breaking down viscosity after 3,000km on synthetic!! My car is an 1 of a kind according to MCI as for the extended time for a repair. Yet they have done no mechanical test, total reliance on the OBDII computer??? God help MCI with this logic!!

[Jeff-TheBiz]

How much does it come out to with 5k rebate and loyalty program?

Can't quote here.. call me if you want me to got through it with you.

(416) 642-7777

[gotak]

The Speed is Awesome just make sure you have the Nokian Hakkapalitta's as you can go no smaller than a 17" due to brakes, pick these up in buffalo save $$$$ Also the one biggest regret I have, is I did not lease the car as there are no consumer protection laws in Canada your shit out of luck with MCI. I am in my 7th month and still waiting for a fix for my speed to resolve fuel mixing with oil and breaking down viscosity after 3,000km on synthetic!! My car is an 1 of a kind according to MCI as for the extended time for a repair. Yet they have done no mechanical test, total reliance on the OBDII computer??? God help MCI with this logic!!

I run 16 inch winters on my 2010 speed 3. You just need the right steelies.

[Kris"Speed3"CWP]

I run 16 inch winters on my 2010 speed 3. You just need the right steelies.

What are the specs for the steelies, what car is it off of , would love to put 16" hakkapalittas on the speed!!!

[Elusivellama]

I also run 16" steelies, specs from my invoice:

16x6.5 Steel Wheel 5x114.3 67.1mm
205-60-16 Hankook W409 iPike 92T

[andhicks]

Heres a quick pic!
I love this car! Just got her today. Mercy she just want to GO!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150215871873003&set=a.440102158002.240183.507868002&type=1&theater

[MZR87]

What picture?

[Roconne]

Heres a quick pic!
I love this car! Just got her today. Mercy she just want to GO!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150215871873003&set=a.440102158002.240183.507868002&type=1&theater
http://i.imgur.com/tSoQ2.jpg

Fixed that pic for you. You can't hotlink straight from facebook. Need to upload the picture to another image hosting site first. :thumbsup

[eliminator]

sweet, I have yet to see a red gen2 speed3 in person. I mostly see black and white.

[laksman91]

http://i.imgur.com/tSoQ2.jpg

Fixed that pic for you. You can't hotlink straight from facebook. Need to upload the picture to another image hosting site first. :thumbsup

You still can hotlink from Facebook. I do it all the time

[andhicks]

Sweet, thanks friend for the help.
Anyway, I love this beast!

[Fack_Dude]

Sweet, thanks friend for the help.
Anyway, I love this beast!

It's slow.... Lol

[runner2k]

Just like mine! Congrats!!

[Booostin]

Looks great! Westowne Mazda has a red speed3 demo for sale.... I think it was 25,000

[harrbear]

I got my speed3 black mica !! Put 600km in 5 days and 2 tanks lol

[Elusivellama]

It's slow.... Lol

It's slow in the same way that an Audi RS4 (which showed up one day in my co. parking lot) makes just about everything else look slow.