Mazda Unveils Spirited Return to Performance-Car Market with Concept Models of Turbocharged Mazda 3 and MX-5 under Spirit Racing Brand

and dashboard, along with Recaro sports bucket seats with racing harnesses.

By Jeff Gibbs

Mazda is gearing up for a compelling re-entry into the performance-car realm with the unveiling of two high-performance concepts – a potential turbocharged Mazda 3 hot hatch and an exhilarating Mazda MX-5 roadster. These concepts, introduced under the newly established Spirit Racing brand, offer a glimpse into Mazda’s commitment to performance and innovation, with confrmed production versions set to hit Japanese showrooms in the near future.

The standout feature in this announcement is the possibility of the Mazda 3 being equipped with a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, hinting at a promising successor to the beloved Mazda 3 MPS turbo hot hatch that exited showrooms in 2013. While a turbo version of the Mazda 3 has been available in North America for over three years, the lefthand-drive exclusivity has left Australian enthusiasts eagerly awaiting a potential right-hand-drive release. Although the details regarding the availability of these Spirit Racing performance vehicles outside of Japan remain uncertain, Mazda Japan has expressed a contemplation of overseas expansion in the future.

The Spirit Racing 3 concept, representing a modifed Mazda 3 hatch, showcases an array of performance enhancements. These include a deep front splitter, a new rear diffuser, black side skirts, and a striking ‘swan-neck’ rear spoiler crafted from carbon fbre. Upgraded brakes with red Brembo callipers and slotted discs are concealed behind new 18-inch black six-spoke wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza Tyres. The interior refects a racing aesthetic, featuring suede-wrapped steering wheel, gear selector,

The heart of the Spirit Racing 3 is rumoured to house a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, described as a “new engine” distinct from the existing 2.5-litre unit available in the Mazda 3. This potential powerplant upgrade aligns with Mazda’s efforts to refne suspension and aerodynamics through its Super Taikyu racing activities.

Complementing this, the Spirit Racing RS, based on the MX-5, amplifes the excitement with a front splitter, side skirts, and a sportier rear diffuser. Its 17-inch six-spoke wheels, Brembo brake callipers, and Bridgestone Potenza RE71RS track-day Tyres contribute to an enhanced driving experience. Inside, the MX-5 concept boasts suede or Alcantara trims, Recaro bucket seats, and harnesses, delivering a compelling blend of comfort and performance.

Both vehicles share a distinctive grey paint scheme with black stripes, red accents, and Spirit Racing badges, refecting Mazda’s dedication to a sporty and dynamic design. While the Spirit Racing RS is expected to be powered by the familiar 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, more details on the power outputs and features of these exciting Spirit Racing road cars are anticipated closer to their production debuts.