However, driving dynamics remain top of mind for the brand.
Mazda is making a shift as it looks to expand its premium segment. It’s no longer about “Zoom Zoom”, but rather about attracting buyers away from entry-level luxury options to Mazda products. This brand realignment could lead to a loss: Mazdaspeed vehicles.
A Mazda spokesperson stated that Mazdaspeed cars have been discontinued and will not be available again during a Q&A session with the media today.
Drew Cary, spokesperson for Hiroshima’s automaker, stated that there are no plans to immediately bring back the Mazdaspeed3.
This is not surprising. This is not surprising. It is unclear if this shift in focus will result in less driving engagement.
Mazda addressed the concern directly and stated that it will continue to focus on driving dynamics for all its vehicles.
This calls into question a car such as the Mazda32.5 Turbo, which we drove this week. We will be reviewing it in the near future. The Turbo is unofficially replacing the Mazdaspeed3. However, it places more emphasis on power and refinement rather than hot hatch temperament. We are not permitted to talk about how the Turbo drives yet. However, the styling cues of the Turbo confirm this story.
We remember cars such as the Mazdaspeed3 or Mazdaspeed Miata with fondness and appreciation. It’s a loss to those who love these cars that they are not reincarnated. The company’s attempts to reduce luxury brands are working, so it claims. However, this has not led to boring appliance cars. We are optimistic that there will be good things in the future even though Mazdaspeed is not in the plans.