Insider: New Mazda3 MPS - Mazdaspeed3 will Debut in Geneva

Having already unveiled the sedan and 5-door hatchback versions of the '3', Mazda is now preparing to take the wraps off the sportiest variant of its C-segment model, the Mazda3 MPS or as it's known in the US, the MazdaSpeed3, at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show in March. While this is something that you may have heard as a rumor in the past, we are in a position to verify the debut as a fact.

What we couldn't manage to extract from our source is what kind of engine will find its way under the hood of the 2010 Mazda3 MPS / MazdaSpeed3. The most obvious choice is a turbocharged version of the 3's new 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder unit, but we wouldn't be surprised if Mazda takes advantage of its FoMoCo ties and uses a variant of the Focus ST / RS 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine that can deliver up to 300HP.

2009 Tokyo Auto Salon: Mazda6 Circuit Trial Version

Even though most of the automotive world will be turning its attention this weekend towards Detroit and the 2009 North American International Auto Show, in Japan, automakers are readying their tuning proposals for the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon that runs from January 9 to 11. Mazda will be presenting several cars at the show, including Mazdaspeed modified, track-ready versions of the new Axela, RX-8, Demio (Mazda2) and Atenza (Mazda6) called 'Circuit Trial'. In this post we've included the first photos of the Mazda6 Circuit Trial.

Like the other Circuit Trial models, the Mazda6 has been modified to offer higher levels of performance without sacrificing the comforts you'd expect from an everyday car. Mazdaspeed's upgrades include an M'z Custom bodykit with front, rear and side lip spoilers, race-inspired decals, a rear wing, Recaro bucket seats, sport interior trim and, larger diameter and grippier tires with dark alloy wheels made by Yokohama. The Circuit Trial Mazda6 also benefits from a lowered, sports tuned suspension and more powerful brakes.

Pics via: Carview

Mazda to Present Circuit Trial Versions of New Mazda3, Mazda6 and RX-8 at Tokyo Salon

While the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon that will be held in Japan from January 9 to 11, isn't considered a major event from a global perspective, nevertheless Mazda has announced that it will showcase a lineup of 13 vehicles and eco-friendly technologies. Mazda's exhibits will include the next-generation Axela (known as the Mazda3 in international markets), which is being revealed for the first time in Japan. Other exhibits will include "Circuit Trial" versions of the new Axela, RX-8, Demio (Mazda2) and Atenza (Mazda6) and six customized versions of the new Biante minivan, which went on sale earlier this year.

It goes without saying that the most attention-grabbing models are the Circuit Trial versions that have been developed by Mazdaspeed. The racing circuit ready variants of the Mazda2, Mazda6, Mazda3 and RX-8 will feature an array of equipment and performance upgrades that include M'z Custom aeroparts, Recaro bucket seats and large diameter tires and alloy wheels made by Yokohama.

Mazda's exhibits at Tokyo Auto Salon 2009

No.	Model	Vehicle/Accessory type
1	All-new Mazda3 (N.A. spec model)	Reference exhibit
2	All-new Mazda Axela Circuit Trial*2	Reference exhibit
3	Mazda RX-8 Circuit Trial	Reference exhibit
4	Mazda Demio Circuit Trial	Reference exhibit
5	Mazda Atenza Circuit Trial	Reference exhibit
6	Mazda Biante WAGONIST Custom	Production accessories
7	Mazda Biante SYTLE WAGON Custom	Production accessories
8	Mazda Biante Rotas RV Special	Production accessories
9	Mazda Biante Columbia Sport MTB Special	Production accessories
10	Mazda Biante DAMD	Production accessories
11	Mazda Biante KENSTYLE	Production accessories
12	All-new Mazda Roadster NR-A	Production vehicle
13	Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid	Reference exhibit