So, what you get is a snug, cockpit-like front row and a decent rear bench for a further two adults. The entire week I had the car, I lugged family members to and from (others having car problems) and on a few occasions, I had three-wide back there. On a short drive, it was OK, but no more than that.
The principal issue with the car was its ride. This is after all a Speed3 and it requires a sport-tuned suspension. I've taken the Speed3 on a track a few times and have always found the car's behaviour to be well honed for this type of activity. But, unlike a Civic Si or GTI, the downside is a fair amount of punishment when the track is left behind.
My rear passengers found the ride to be harsh and unpleasant. I must admit that if I was to spend any amount of time back there, I'd have found the same. This is the only thorn in the Speed3's side when considering it as a family vehicle.
For daily doses of fun, this car is all smiles and pleasure—if you can handle it. The turbocharged MZR 2.3L 4-pot is like a Gremlin; aggressive and bursting with energy. And energy it has, in droves! The engine pumps out 263 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Managed or, otherwise manipulated by, a 6-speed manual gearbox with short throws, the Speed3 requires all the driver's wit and concentration.
Not only does the car pull hard—front and side-to-side—despite the presence of a torque-sensing conical limited-slip differential, but in order to get the max out of the available power, some gear rowing has to take place. The real juicy part of the powerband is fairly narrow and flies by between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm. The mill redlines at 6,700 rpm. There is no sense on holding a gear to the top as you'll only be wasting fuel.
Once throttle and clutch control is managed, you'll be glad to know that the oversized front discs brakes (discs all-round, FYI) and electro-hydraulic steering are on your side. Both work well and allow you to go a little nuts when possible. And let me tell you that you will let your hair down at every available opportunity. The Speed3's burble-y exhaust note and rush of boost are nothing short of addictive.
The principal issue with the car was its ride. This is after all a Speed3 and it requires a sport-tuned suspension. I've taken the Speed3 on a track a few times and have always found the car's behaviour to be well honed for this type of activity. But, unlike a Civic Si or GTI, the downside is a fair amount of punishment when the track is left behind.
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| The principal issue with the car was its ride. unlike a Civic Si or GTI, the downside is a fair amount of punishment when the track is left behind. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
My rear passengers found the ride to be harsh and unpleasant. I must admit that if I was to spend any amount of time back there, I'd have found the same. This is the only thorn in the Speed3's side when considering it as a family vehicle.
For daily doses of fun, this car is all smiles and pleasure—if you can handle it. The turbocharged MZR 2.3L 4-pot is like a Gremlin; aggressive and bursting with energy. And energy it has, in droves! The engine pumps out 263 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Managed or, otherwise manipulated by, a 6-speed manual gearbox with short throws, the Speed3 requires all the driver's wit and concentration.
Not only does the car pull hard—front and side-to-side—despite the presence of a torque-sensing conical limited-slip differential, but in order to get the max out of the available power, some gear rowing has to take place. The real juicy part of the powerband is fairly narrow and flies by between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm. The mill redlines at 6,700 rpm. There is no sense on holding a gear to the top as you'll only be wasting fuel.
Once throttle and clutch control is managed, you'll be glad to know that the oversized front discs brakes (discs all-round, FYI) and electro-hydraulic steering are on your side. Both work well and allow you to go a little nuts when possible. And let me tell you that you will let your hair down at every available opportunity. The Speed3's burble-y exhaust note and rush of boost are nothing short of addictive.
 |
| The turbocharged MZR 2.3L 4-pot is like a Gremlin; aggressive and bursting with energy. And energy it has, in droves! (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |