Mazda is planning to attack the new Golf GTi with the Mazda 3 hatchback, according to Autocar this week. The report says that the range will include a 220bhp, 150mph MPS version, using a detuned version of the 2.3-litre turbocharged four-pot powerplant from the 6 MPS.
Performance is said to be 6.5 seconds for the dash from zero to 60mph, which may see off the Golf. The heavier VW's 200bhp means it takes 7.2 seconds to get to 60mph from rest, with a top speed of 145mph.
The pic shows the standard Mazda 3.