Yes, you read the title right; 300 hp and even possible all-wheel drive. The hot Mazda3 MPS / MazdaSpeed3 will be launched along with the facelifted version of the car, sometime in the latter part of 2016.

The engine it’s set to use is the same 2.5-liter SKYACTIV unit they’re already employing, but with a big turbo strapped on. There’s little additional information on this, but even so, we don’t mind it.

Naturally, it will get distinguishing interior and exterior features, like all MPS models, along with the changes brought about by the expected facelift.

An all-new 3 will be launched in 2018, riding on an all-new platform, according to AutomotiveNews.

Before then, be on the lookout for the revised Mazda6, which should theoretically preview the kinds of changes the smaller 3 is set to receive in 2016. Among these we mention “a new center console and a thinner dashboard,” optional LED headlights, as well as a raft of other improvements, according to the same source.

Renderings via DesignRM

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