Hardware
Under the hood of the latest Mazdaspeed-engineered MPS is Mazda'sfamiliar 2.3-liter, inline 4-cylinder powerplant. With anexhaust-driven turbocharger, the engine is rated at 260 hp and 280lb.-ft. of torque in European spec. The standard transmission is aspecially-designed 6-speed manual with improved gear ratios for 2010.Triple-cone synchronizers, and a low-viscosity transmission fluid,ensure swift and smooth shifts, Mazda says. Power is sent to the frontwheels through a torque-sensing limited-slip differential, keepingwheel spin to a minimum, the manufacturer adds. Also, the drive shaftshave been optimized to minimize torque steer. According to Mazda, theall-new MPS will sprint to 60 mph in about 6 seconds. Its top speed isa claimed 155 mph.
The chassis beneath the new MPS receives special reinforcements andstiffening by Mazdaspeed. The independent front suspension andmulti-link rear suspension have modified spring rates and featurelarger diameter stabilizer bars for flatter cornering, the maker says.The electro-hydraulic power-assisted steering has been optimized forimproved response to steering inputs. Larger disc brakes, offeringadditional stopping power, have been fitted on all four corners whilenew standard 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels offer additional grip andimprove steering feel, the manufacturer claims.
Technology
To improve steering response and accuracy, Mazdaspeed engineers paidspecial attention to the vehicle's power steering system and upgradedit accordingly. For 2010, it employs three rigid steering gear mountbushings (the previous model used two) to help prevent unwantedmovement in the system. In addition, the electro-hydraulicpower-assisted steering (EHPAS) adjusts boost automatically based onvehicle speed and steering-wheel angle to decrease effort at lowspeeds, yet retain solid steering feel at highway speeds, themanufacturer says.
For more information:
- See2010 Mazdaspeed 3 Pictures
- Browse other Mazdamodels
- Readmore Previews
...
Click here to read the rest of the article at JDPower.com