Armed with those qualifications, the all-new Mazdaspeed3 gives the term "bang for the buck" an inferiority complex.

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Of course, numbers never tell the whole story. The AWD Mazdaspeed6, which utilizes the same 2.3-liter direct-injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine (albeit with 274 horses) and six-speed manual, looks like a ringer on the spec sheet. On the road, however, its portly 3574-pound curb weight and front-drive feel tarnish some of its promise on paper. A gentleman's Evo, perhaps, but that doesn't necessarily equate to a redlining fun-to-drive factor.

The Mazdaspeed3 delivers impressive numbers, but, more important, it delivers the elusive feel of a dedicated driver's machine. Whereas the 6 can feel a bit rotund when pushed, our 3100-pound preproduction test vehicle seemed perfectly toned--quick, agile, and not too bulky, the strong safety of the squad. It drives the way you wish the 6 did--light on its feet, ready to dart in whichever direction you point the nose. At the helm, the sensations through the electrohydraulic rack-and-pinion steering are direct, with no play on-center, and a level of linearity that makes slicing sweepers and switchbacks an exquisite exercise. There's some mild understeer when taking twists too tight, but front-end bite is tenacious, overall balance seemingly neutral. A torque-sensing front limited-slip differential ensures that power is delivered efficiently through the 215/45R18 Bridgestone RE050As, and a new torque-reduction system, which functions in first through third gears, nearly nullifies torque steer by reading steering angle, retarding engine spark via the ECU, and bleeding boost through the wastegate. Some torque steer still rears its head, but it's of the gentle variety, more of a coax than a tug.

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Nestled in the supportive sport seat that hugs you like a prom date, reaching the drilled-aluminum pedals and the short-throw leather-wrapped shifter is easy, and operating the controls quickly becomes second nature. Clutch feel isn't as springy or sensitive as in the Mazdaspeed6, resulting in smoother engagement and uncomplicated use. A shift to third gear is needed to burst from 0 to 60--otherwise the estimated time would fall in the mid-5s--but Mazda is confident the 3 will be the quickest front-drive car on the road. Unlike the wound-up Evo and STI, whose turbo engines are punchier than Mike Tyson, the 3's motor delivers power smoothly and progressively. Moreover, turbo lag is minimal; even in sixth gear, with the tach at 2000 rpm, a stab of the throttle surges the car ahead with authority, as 90 percent of peak torque comes alive at 2200.

To complement the added ponies and pound-feet, the Mazdaspeed3--available only as a hatchback--features a thoroughly tweaked body and chassis. Body rigidity has been upped by roughly 60 percent over the already robust standard 3, according to Mazda, due to the implementations of a reinforced front cowl member, a large closed section member in the lower body, and a gusset for the rear suspension towers. A revised front-strut/rear multilink suspension sports firmer spring rates--30 and 25 percent stiffer, respectively--and larger-diameter anti-roll bars. Through high-g turns, the car adheres to the asphalt, offering levels of grip that continually tempt you to push the limit another tenth. The ride, while certainly taut, comes across as fitting and surprisingly compliant for everyday use. Bigger front brakes--12.6-inch discs versus 11.8--along with larger tandem boosters and more aggressive pads, yield improved performance and feel, both of which were evident during repeated runs through the mountains.

In order to exceed 150 mph, the Mazdaspeed3 needs more than 263 horsepower. Thus, thanks to a 0.4-inch drop in ride height, a large front underspoiler, an underfloor cover, and a fixed rear wing, the hot hatch slices through the atmosphere more efficiently, boasting coefficient of drag that's been reduced from 0.35 to 0.32. And by fitting the car with tasteful side skirts, reworked front and rear fascias, "floating image" foglamps, 10-spoke 18x7.0-inch wheels, and a bulging hood that makes room for the top-mounted intercooler, Mazda ensured the car looks as sporty as it is sleek.

Available in either Sport or Grand Touring trim--the latter equipped with LED taillamps, auto on/off Xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, a Bose surround-sound system with a six-CD changer, and partial leather seats--the Mazdaspeed3 will undoubtedly give pause to those considering a WRX, a GTI, or even an A3. Mazda plans to import only 5000 per year, so if you're the type who appreciates a pocket-rocket that can make your spine tingle, get on the phone immediately.