Motorweek Season 29 Episode 27 MazdaSpeed3 vs. Volkswagen GTI

The highly anticipated season 29 episode 27 of the popular automotive show Motorweek is finally here, and it features a head-to-head battle between two of the most iconic hot hatches in the market: the MazdaSpeed3 and the Volkswagen GTI. Both cars have earned a loyal following among enthusiasts, and this episode aims to settle the score once and for all.

The episode kicks off with a detailed look at the MazdaSpeed3, a high-performance version of the Mazda3 compact car. The car's aggressive styling, which includes a massive front air dam and a hood scoop, is sure to turn heads on the street. Underneath the hood lies a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 263 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Motorweek's host, John Davis, praises the car's power delivery and notes that the six-speed manual feels precise and engaging.

The MazdaSpeed3's handling is equally impressive, thanks to a sport-tuned suspension and a limited-slip differential. Davis takes the car to a racetrack to put it through its paces, and he comes away impressed with its balance and grip. He does note that the car's torque steer, a tendency for the steering wheel to pull to one side under hard acceleration, can be a bit unnerving at times.

Next up is the Volkswagen GTI, a car that essentially created the hot hatch segment when it was first introduced in the United States back in the 1980s. The current model, which is in its seventh generation, features a sleeker and more refined design than its predecessor. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Davis notes that the engine feels peppy and responsive, but he also points out that it lacks the raw power of the MazdaSpeed3.

Where the GTI shines is in its handling and overall driving dynamics. The car's suspension is firm but well-balanced, and the steering feels precise and communicative. Davis takes the car on a winding mountain road and comes away thoroughly impressed with its composure and agility. He notes that the car's brakes are also top-notch, giving him confidence to push the car harder.

After driving both cars extensively, Davis and his team come to the conclusion that the MazdaSpeed3 and the Volkswagen GTI are both fantastic cars in their own right. The MazdaSpeed3 is the clear winner in terms of raw power and straight-line speed, but it falls short when it comes to refinement and overall driving dynamics. The Volkswagen GTI, on the other hand, is less powerful but more composed and balanced. Davis notes that both cars are a blast to drive and that choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference.

As always, this episode of Motorweek is filled with useful information and expert analysis that will help viewers make informed decisions when it comes to buying a new car. Whether you're a die-hard fan of hot hatches or simply looking for a fun and practical car to add to your garage, this episode is a must-watch.