Driving Fans picked up an interesting tidbit while at the recent North American Mazda3 launch. In response to inquiries as to the future of the high-output Mazdaspeed3, which has been part of the Mazda3 line for years, word is that “something like it” will be displayed at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show (a.k.a. SEMA) in Las Vegas, Nev. in early November. Called the ClubSport3, the hatchback will feature a number of of internal and external performance parts, along with the mandatory attention-grabbing paint scheme.
The wink and nod from the Mazda exec leaves little doubt that the ClubSport3 is the precursor to an actual production ‘speed3 model that will likely show up for the 2015 model year. Whether the new car will carry the Mazdaspeed name or be called something else is anybody’s guess.
The popular Mazdaspeed3 is an important part of the lineup, however, as it helps to cement the Mazda3’s sporty-car status. Much as the GTI does for the Volkswagen Golf and the WRX does for the Subaru Impreza, the Mazdaspeed3 is a performance halo car that influences the market far beyond its sales numbers. For this reason, it’s hard to imagine that Mazda will let it slip out of the lineup entirely. Watch the SEMA vehicle closely for hints as to what’s in store for the next Mazdaspeed3. If the company’s impressive strides forward with the Mazda6 and Skyactiv engine family are any indicator, things are going to get really exciting.
