The alpha-dog member of the Mazda family returns for 2010 and resumes its rightful place as one of the most exhilarating and affordable performance cars on the road.

The Mazdaspeed3 is the only vehicle in the company’s lineup to wear the Mazdaspeed nameplate (the name originates from Mazda’s Japan-based racing team), although in the past half-dozen years, econobox, sports-car and sedan models have been included in this exclusive club.

This version takes up where the outgoing 2009 Mazdaspeed left off and ratchets up the vehicle’s look and attitude to a greater level.

As before, the ’speed3, which is expected to arrive before the end of summer, is based on the Mazda3 wagon that, along with its sedan counterpart, are new-and-improved second-generation models.

However, where the first-generation ’speed3 differed only slightly in appearance from its more sedate stable mate, the 2010 edition now has the look of a serious runner.

Most noticeable is a prominent hood scoop that ingests outside air and directs it to the intercooler, which in turn sends it to the engine’s turbocharger.

Other front-end enhancements include a blacked-out grille and a lower air dam bracketed by a sizable pair of fog lights that are positioned ahead of the wider front fenders.

In back, the lower bumper area receives the black-out treatment and a larger roof-mounted spoiler has been attached.

Between both ends, rocker-panel skirts have been attached, set off against unique alloy rims that have been fitted with 18-inch Dunlop performance rubber.

To improve the ’speed3 driving capabilities, the suspension has been retuned with stiffer front and rear springs and shocks, the front anti-sway bar revised and a the steering rack has been more securely attached.

As well, both left and right drive shafts have been redesigned to help reduce torque steer (the tendency for the vehicle to veer off course under vigorous acceleration), a common complaint with the first-generation car.

Additional stopping power was also a priority for engineers and a new electronically controlled brake-assist system has been designed to perform more efficiently during sudden panic stops.

As if these changes weren’t enough, both driver and passengers will be reminded that they’re riding in a Mazdaspeed3 with its tightly tailored bucket seats with red stitching and enhancements to the door and steering-wheel trim.

The driver will also appreciate the new turbo boost gauge located between the tach and the speedo.

If you haven’t already guessed, the ’speed3 runs with a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine.

Ordering a ’speed3 assures you’re getting a fully equipped land rocket built for comfort as well as performance.

Along with standard-issue power accessories, there’s climate control, aluminum pedals and plenty of Mazdaspeed identification badging inside and out.

Additional content includes keyless entry with push-button start, 10-speaker Bose surround-sound package and hands-free BlueTooth communications setup.

The Mazdaspeed3 is now more clearly identifiable than ever as an athletic derivation of the entry-level Mazda3.

And, with a base price in the $34,000 range (including destination charges), this muscular Mazda remains a hard-to-beat bargain that will continue leading the pack of other specialty breeds costing considerably more.