After Mazda received criticism for its second-generation MPS hatchback that it looked too much like a mainstream Mazda3; the company has given it a "go-faster" look.

The car, which is the quickest in the Mazda range, has been given a muscular look through a bonnet scoop, larger rear spoiler and flared wheel arches. The car, like the WRX in the Subaru Impreza line-up and the Evolution X among Mitsubishi Lancer offerings, has acquired a new identity of its own.

Mazda New Zealand technical chief Roger Russell said: "The Mazda3-based MPS has more refined road manners, with revisions that include reining in the torque steer that blunted the power-down performance of the first-generation model. It runs a lot truer."

The MPS was unveiled by Mazda on the Pukekohe racetrack 48 hours ago. The car is equipped with 2.3-litre direct-injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which, though punches out the same 190kW/380Nm as the original, comes with a revised six-speed manual gearbox, and 18-inch front wheels.

The control unit of the engine has been revamped by the engineers, who have also improved the oil filter and adopted different spark plugs for better performance. The performance of the intercooler has also been improved by the air-intake scoop in the bonnet. The noise made by the engine is also cut down by a new exhaust system and other noise-dampeners.

"The body is stronger thanks to more high-strength steels and a more substantial rear frame. The car is bigger (75mm longer, 5mm wider) and, with a kerb weight of
1470kg, is around 50kg heavier than the original - but it sprints from zero to 100km/h in the same 6.1 seconds," said Russell.

The MPS which is also equipped with extra equipment over its predecessor, including multi-function display, keyless entry, and adaptive front headlight, also has electronic brake assist (EBA).

"Mazda NZ aims to average about six sales a month with the new model, which comes in four exterior colors and is priced at $48,545 plus on-road costs," concluded Russell.