Updated 2013 Mazda 3 MPS

For manufacturers, giving their performance cars fairly understated looks is a conundrum. Sure, there will be buyers who appreciate the anonymity, but the risk is that the model lacks a wider showroom appeal.

Perhaps a case in point is the Mazda 3 MPS, which is undoubtedly rapid enough but tends to be a forgotten alternative to its more obvious hot hatch rivals.

So, to raise the Mazda’s profile, the 3 MPS is getting a bit of visual pep for 2013.

The changes are restricted to a new gunmetal colour for the 18” alloy wheels, plus a black mica finish for the door mirror caps, rear bumper lower trim and inner roof spoiler. Not too dramatic, then, but the tweaks complement the existing bonnet scoop and xenon headlights to create an effect that works well enough.

Technically, things remain unaltered, which means the 3 MPS continues to be powered by a turbocharged 2.3 litre petrol engine that develops 256 bhp (191 kW / 260 PS) with 380 Nm (280 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Driving the front wheels via a six-speed gearbox, that’s enough for a zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) time of just 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). However, the downside is a combined fuel economy figure of only 30.1 mpg (9.4 l/100km) and carbon dioxide emissions of 219 g/km.

In the UK, the Mazda 3 MPS is priced at £23,995.

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