Mazda UK is expecting a’ healthy’ waiting list for the Mazda 3MPS, the fastest model in the range when it goes on sale in February.

The 155mph car - reputed to offer the same handling characteristics of the Mazda6 MPS, Mazda RX-8 PZ special edition and the two-seater open-top roadster Mazda MX-5 - will be marketed in the UK as a single, fully specified and generously equipped model.

The car will be available as a single model equipped with a turbocharged Euro IV compliant 2.3-litre petrol engine, emitting 231g/km of CO2 and governed through a six-speed manual transmission. It will come with a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser, front, side and curtain airbags and BOSE audio system.

The Mazda3 MPS will come with MPS-branded sports seats with black leather side bolsters and centre sections in black sports cloth. Plus, customers will be able to choose between four exterior paint colours – with mica or metallic finish.

Mazda UK will have a limited allocation of right-hand drive Mazda3 MPS during 2007, generating a halo effect on sales of the Mazda3 range, expected to reach a total of around 14,000 in 2007.

“The Mazda3 MPS takes our brand’s Zoom-Zoom philosophy beyond our sportscars and applies that same spirit and performance to a model which has appeal to a much broader audience,” said Mazda UK's marketing director Mark Cameron. “The Mazda3 has always been praised for its driving dynamics, handling and road holding and clearly has a chassis that can handle more power.”

The on-the-road price for the Mazda3 MPS will be announced nearer to its on sale date. Scots spend £390m on 56 plate.


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