Mazdaspeed3 Rumored for 2016 with 320 HP, AWD

The 2014 Mazda3 was chosen as AutoGuide.com‘s 2014 Car of the Year, so what can we expect from the sportier Mazdaspeed3?

Rumor has it that the Mazdaspeed3 will make its debut in 2016 sporting a turbocharged 2.5-liter SkyActiv gasoline engine with up to 320 hp. According to Australian CarsGuide, the new Mazdaspeed3 will come with all-wheel drive along with a six-speed manual transmission.

SEE ALSO: 2014 Mazda3 Review: A Second Opinion

The Japanese automaker denies the rumors of a turbocharged SkyActiv engine, since those powerplants run a high compression ratio to enhance fuel economy and performance. Typically speaking, forced induction on a high compression motor is bad news. But the unnamed source said that Mazda has solved the issue and will be following the hot hatch competition with turbocharged motors.

GALLERY: 2014 Mazda3

[Source: CarsGuide]

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