Mazda 3 modified by BBR – introduces dual-stage tuning upto 185 hp

Kuala Lumpur: Well, if you can't wait for MX5 MPS to make its debut, then Mazda’s UK-based performance specialist BBR is proffering the best alternate. The tuning specialists famous for turbocharged MX-5's has just introduced two stages of engine performance upgrades for the Mazda 3 2.0L Skyactiv-G variant. It is being said that the mutated power mill now delivers three different power figures starting from 120, 145 and 162 hp, among which the Malaysian variants possess the latter figure.

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BBR has been working over this project from past 11 months, the company is intensively working on the tuning maps to remove key electronic and mechanical restrictions of the Mazda 3, Mazda 6, CX-3 and CX-5 models to unleash the naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine’s full potential. The car is being offered in two tuned variants, BBR Super 170 and BBR Super 185. The base package christened as BBR Super 170 includes the firm’s Starchip ECU software package and “revised fuel and ignition calibration.”

BBR’s Starchip ECU software package optimises engine performance from 2,000 rpm to 7,000 rpm limiter, and it also removes electronic throttle restrictions for a more spirited driving experience. The final output of the BBR Super 170 package is 169.7 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 221 Nm of torque at 4,250 rpm. Which is not very far from the Malaysian-spec 162hp and 210 Nm, so there isn't much need to pay £499 (RM3,324 excluding taxes) for the small performance bump.

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However, the superior variant BBR Super 185 package might be worth considering, as this upgrade breaths an additional 15 hp build on the same Starchip ECU. Here, you will need to pay and extra £1,795 (roughly RM12k), but for that you get a stainless steel 4-2-1 exhaust manifold and a cold air induction system featuring K&N high-flow filter. These improvements result in an output of 185 hp at 6,300 rpm and 235 Nm of torque at just 4,000 revolutions.

Apart from this, the premium package also features a 2.5-inch diameter centre section with high-flow sports catalyst (EU emissions compliant; £495 or RM3.3k) as well as a stainless steel BBR-branded rear silencer (£395 or RM2.6k) protruding a sportier look. There are also additional upgrades which include BBR Sports Springs with Koni adjustable dampers for £195 (RM1.3k) and £605 (RM4,000) respectively.