The hot-hatchback segment is pretty quiet at the moment. But soon things will start to heat up again as there are a couple of new models in the pipeline. Next year Honda will launch the new Civic Type R, and after that we will be getting a new Mazda3 MPS (Speed3). The first details of the hot Mazda have now become available.

According to the latest reports from Japan, the 2016 Mazda3 MPS will be powered by a SYACTIV 2.5 liter turbo engine punching in excess of 300 horsepower. So no surprise there, as Mazda3 MPS has always been one of the most powerful cars in its segment.

What comes as a bit of a surprise is Mazda’s decision to equip the MPS with an all-wheel-drive system. In fairness, the previous models did suffer quite a bit from torquesteer and understeer – direct results of sending too much power to the front wheels. They have probably looked at the Mercedes A45 AMG and thought AWD is the answer to all hot-hatch-related problems. It makes the car handle better, and it makes a better use of the engine’s power.

The pictures you see here are artist’s impression of 2016 Mazda3 MPS. The details such as the hood scoop and the aero parts at the back are obviously inspired by the previous generation MPS, but nonetheless, it does look quite interesting.

Via Carsguide