The very popular Mazda3 range has been recently boosted with the introduction of a new Horse in Mazda’s stable – in the form of the Mazda3 Sport Black Special Edition.
The Sport Black has been given ‘The Full Monty’ by Mazda with the introduction of dynamic lines, 18-inch Dark Gunmetal alloy wheels, front splitter, side skirts and an in your face roof spoiler. Also, if that was not enough to get you reaching for your savings account – then maybe the fact that Mazda has also limited production to just 800 examples.
Power and Efficiency:
The Sport Black is powered by a 2.0 litre Petrol engine with 120hp and 210Nm of torque, the engine revs easily and is very lively and responsive. Ok, I would have liked a bit more power – but it’s still enough to help the Sport Black get a shift on ‘Hot Hatch Style’ – Top speed also comes in at 121mph with a 0.62 time of 8.9sec and a combined fuel economy of 55.4mpg
On the road:
Mazda have always got it just right when it comes to a cars ability on the road, and my recent test of the brilliant CX-3 proves that Mazda know how to make a car perform. Also, if you have ever driven an MX-5, then you will know what I mean. On the road – the Sport Black is controlled and precise – add in the massive amount of feedback you also get from all four corners at any given moment, also helps in giving you the confidence of a sure footed ride.
Interior & Technology
Inside, the Sport Black’s is tailor-made with exclusive black half leather/ half suede seats which are very good at supporting your back and posture. In fact, the last time I sat in a seat this good was in a Bentley. The controls are also easy to reach and Mazda’s attention to detail on the interior surfaces is second to none.
Then of course there’s the very generous standard equipment like; a BOSE® Surround-Sound System, reversing camera, smart keyless entry, cruise control and dual-zone climate control and Mazda’s MZD-Connect system, 7” colour touchscreen display and Multimedia Commander with integrated navigation all as standard.
Safety:
Additions such as; Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), dual front, side and curtain airbags along with ABS and Dynamic Stability Control which includes Traction Control.
To sum up: The Mazda 3 Sport Black is a brilliant piece of work that will appeal to many people who want a great looking car with that hot hatch feel, but without the high insurance premiums.
Price: (from) £20,995 OTR as tested – not including fitted options.