Mazda3 MPS

Those nice chaps at Mazda have gone and duped us. Just when they led us to believe the Mazda3 MPS was going to cost around £19,500, they go and announce it will be £18,995.

Makes us look a bit daft, but it's good news for those who fancy a 256bhp hot hatch capable of 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds and 155mph, making the MPS one of the swiftest cars in its class.

The MPS will also be one of the best equipped because it will come in one trim only that includes half-leather seats, climate control, 18in alloy wheels and metallic paint.

You can also order the £500 Sports Styling Pack that adds lowered suspension, a larger rear spoiler and two-spoke door mirrors.

We had a good drive in the MPS last week, and you can read what we thought of Mazda's rival to the Focus ST, Golf GTi and Astra VXR in our road test.

Only 1,000 models are destined for the UK in 2007 and sales start in February. Well, that's what Mazda has led us to believe.

© Source: original article on topgear.com