What We Know So Far
The 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 was recently caught being put through the motions on the world famous Nurburgring race track in Germany and it's definitely a big departure from the current generation. In the front, the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 takes on styling cues from the upcoming 2010 Mazda 3 with a smooth, sleek front end but adds one significant difference: a huge hood scoop. Unlike the previous Mazdaspeed 3, the new generation will introduce more air through a hood scoop which will likely cool off a larger, more powerful turbocharged motor. There is much concern over the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3's ability to manage a three hundred horsepower engine while maintaining its front wheel drive only configuration. It's widely expected that Mazda will either offer all wheel drive standard or take advantage of Ford's new RevoKnuckle FWD suspension system that reduces torque steer and allows automakers to put more power to the front wheels. If the RevoKnuckle FWD system is in fact a possibility then it conflicts with rumors that claim the upcoming Mazdaspeed 3 will not have a limited slip differential.
Inside, the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 will see many of the same new interior design elements as the 2010 Mazda 3 including a two tier dashboard with information and radio data display screen residing above a newly contoured center dash panel. Below the radio controls are three large, recessed radio dials that control fan speed, heat and air conditioning outlets and temperature. The next Mazdaspeed 3 is most likely going to continue on as a hatchback only model and we still await official word from Mazda on what interior options they plan to carry over from the more mainstream Mazda 3 model. Based on spy shots of the Mazdaspeed 3, it appears that Mazda will continue their plan to not include a sunroof on Mazdaspeed 3s in order to improve aerodynamics. Mazda has also reshaped the rear spoiler on the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 prototype which will increase downforce and improve the driving experience at higher speeds.
Theres nothing wrong with the engine itself; acceleration is strong, and youre treated to a deep, bassy bellow from the twin exhausts. Unfortunately, the steering feels overly heavy and quite sluggish. This Beetle does get a more advanced rear suspension set-up than lesser models in the range, which helps it resist body roll well and deal better with mid-corner lumps and bumps. However, the ride feels firm and unsettled at lower speeds. When its left in auto mode, the gearbox often feels too eager to change down. Wed recommend you save yourself 1510 and stick with the manual. Whats the 2013 VW Beetle 2.0 TSI DSG like inside? The cabin is the usual combination of Volkswagen quality and class, albeit with a retro twist; the dashboard can be painted to match the cars exterior colour. The controls are a doddle to use, too, but you might struggle to find your ideal driving position because the steering wheel doesnt offer a great range of movement. The small rear-view mirror and thick rear pillars mean there are visibility problems, too.
Access to the rear seats is good, thanks to the cars large doors and front seats that tilt and slide out of the way. However, limited head- and legroom in the back means that adult passengers will probably feel a little cramped.? The 310-litre boot is just 50 litres smaller than the Golf's, but a deep lip and a sloping boot lid limit practicality, while the height of the open tailgate means some shorter drivers could struggle to close it. Should I buy one? Its hard to recommend this version of the Beetle. You climb in thinking it looks like a Beetle GTI, you pull away thinking it sounds like one, but then the first corner confirms exactly why it isnt one. The Beetle will primarily be bought by people for its looks, because while this style icon is largely a Golf underneath, its neither as good to drive nor as practical. With this in mind, wed go for the 1.2 TSI model if youve got your heart set on a Beetle. Its a surprisingly flexible performer and is more than 8000 cheaper in entry-level trim.
It can be tough being the middle child, constantly vying for attention and approval of others. Thirty years ago, the Volkswagen GTI and Honda Civic Si didn鈥檛 need to worry about the Golf R or Civic Type R stealing all their performance limelight the way they do now. Nor were there efficient, overachieving siblings like the eGolf or Civic EX-T claiming all the praise for minimalist fuel consumption. No, times were easier then, when these cars were the top-dogs in their respective model lineups. These models need to work hard for their accolades, and the competition has grown from outside their respective families too, with the likes of Hyundai鈥檚 formidable Elantra Sport and Ford鈥檚 wild and woolly Focus ST, to name a few. Each has matured into safe and spacious, quick and comfortable cars equally suited for weekend autocross exploits as they are for family-hauling duties, but is one better at these tasks than the other?
