The steel body of the Mazda 3 MPS is generally very sound, while its appearance appeals to many for its subtle looks. Other than deeper bumpers and side skirts, the only clues to the car's performance are some 'MPS' badges and the larger bore single exhaust tailpipe.
Rust can be an issue, so be aware
The £500 Sports Aero Kit was offered to UK customers from 2007. As well as the lowered Eibach springs, the Aero package brought a larger rear spoiler and M3-style double spoke door mirrors.
Mazda strengthened the second generation model's body to give 41 per cent greater torsional rigidity. It also made the car stand out more from its mainstream siblings with the addition of a large bonnet air intake. There was also a bigger rear spoiler, while in April 2012 a secondary roof spoiler was added underneath the existing one. At the same time, the MPS gained a Black Mica finish for the door mirrors and lower rear bumper trim. These last of the line MPS models also have bi-xenon headlights with an Adaptive Front Light system where the beam turns in relation to steering inputs.
Mk2 MPS certainly more overt
Front foglights on the Mk1 3 MPS seem more prone to stone chips than on the later car. These lights are only available as a complete unit rather than just the lens, which means a bill for around £150 for a new one from Mazda, or you can search online for used replacement for about a third of that.
A little unusually for a car of this era, the Mazda 3 is susceptible to rust. Rear arches can corrode where the arch liner hold muck and water. Avoid cars with any hint of rust and then keep yours scrupulously clean by regularly hosing this area. Corrosion can also take hold behind the bumpers at both ends, as well as around the tailgate, so look closely for any signs of bubbling or respray work.
PHer's view:
"The lack of body kit, decals, large spoilers and the car crash in Halfords look helped with lessening attention from prats who want to race and also confused tailgaters as it would take off like a scalded cat."
Andy White