EVERY family has a wild one in the pack. In human terms that can be a scourge but when it comes to cars it is almost a necessity. Manufacturers need a model that stands out in terms of performance and looks, one that grabs the attention of the hardcore enthusiast.

Ford, for example, has the Focus ST, Honda the Civic Type R and Seat the Leon FR . . . and there are many more. In this league Mazda is represented by the Mazda3 MPS . . . and it is the boldest of the lot. If there is any criticism of this model it is that it is too powerful and you can be left with a white face as well as white knuckles after a drive.

The MPS badge on the boot stands for Mazda Performance Series and this is certainly an image builder in terms of performance, if not looks, and will be on the wish list of those who want a sports car and a family car rolled into one.

The MPS is powered by a big output engine. The 2.3-litre turbo-charged unit under the bonnet develops a huge 256bhp which beats the 2-litre rivals normally found at this level. The Mazda develops 380Nm of torque compared to Ford's 320Nms and boasts a top speed of 250km/h (electronically controlled) to Ford's 245km/h while in the acceleration stakes Mazda also has the edge . . . 6.1 seconds to Ford's 6.8 seconds in the 0-100km sprint.

Ford beats the Mazda marginally on economy . . .9.3L/100km compared to 9.7L/100km, which will be of little significance to owners at this level of performance and in the CO2 stakes Ford again come out on top at 224g/km to 231g/km for Mazda . . . but these figures are very much dependent on how the driver behaves behind the wheel.

Behind the wheel, the turbo power flows quickly and smoothly through a precise gearbox but the rush can catch one unawares and the good straight-line manners can quickly evaporate on corners and rough road surfaces if the power is not held carefully in check.

The drive is exciting but keeping a tight rein on the horsepower under the bonnet is a must. Some might suggest the Mazda3 MPS is overpowered but if you want fun you are sitting in the right seat here . . . the scares depend on your driving expertise. What will take your breath away, and for the wrong reasons, is the stiffness of the suspension which becomes very obvious over rough patches. But fear not, both steering and suspension give a good performance despite the awesome power.

Put fully to the test, man and technology tame the beast. But be well-advised that it is a learning curve until you discover both your and the car's potential.

Mazda designers admit that the MPS concept comes from somewhere between heart and head and that it has been engineered to stretch expectations and give the ultimate adrenaline rush.

So what else do you get for 37,995 (with metallic paint 400 extra)? The cockpit is well kitted out with steering-wheel-mounted buttons for audio and cruise control. There is also climate control , MPS-branded leather seats with lumbar support, sixspeed manual transmission, four electric windows with keyless window control, heated mirrors, remote central locking . . . and alloy pedals for that racing touch.

Safety is well catered for.

There are front, side and curtain airbags, traction control and dynamic stability control to avoid nasty skidding and a full raft of anti-lock braking functions.

Outside, the MPS body kit is discreet with 18in alloy wheels, rear spoiler and front fog lights.

This is a car strictly for the enthusiast but it is also a familyfriendly car with five seats and a good-sized boot, which will help to justify the extra financial outlay if necessary. The downside is that with our growing urban sprawl there will be scarce opportunities to have the fun it can offer. It will sell in small numbers but is an image builder for Mazda whose sales are showing a big upward surge under new management as prices are restructured and exciting new stock is rolled out.

VITAL STATISTICS

Model Mazda3 MPS
Engine 2.3L turbo 256bhp
Length 4,415mm
Width 1,755mm
Height 1,465mm
Wheelbase 2,640mm
Acceleration 0-100km/6.1 secs
Top speed 250km/h
Transmission Six-speed manual
Economy 9.7L/100km
Price 37,995
C0 2emissions 231g/km