Small SUVs are a great investment. They’re cheap, there is loads of choices to pick from. The best part about Small SUVs is that they can be owned by individuals as well as families. Given that small SUVs are being taken at a great bargain, here is Mazda’s contender the Mazda CX-3. Now Mazda isn’t the most premium or the best car maker, but their philosophy of making their cars stand strong even when they’re being pushed past their limits is what makes people buy them. You can’t go wrong with a good Mazda, or can you? Let’s see.

Pros:

• Powerful engine
• Drives smoothly
• Adequate features before add-ons
  

Cons:

• Across the range, prices of the CX-3 have shot up .
• From 13 options to 5 options. Manual and AWD options have been discontinued.
• Wheel arches are unnecessary in low riders and that too gloss black arches.
  

What’s new?

• Minor facelift
• Interiors have been upgraded
• Drives anew
  

As mentioned there is a lot of competition in the small SUV segment. From Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Toyota Yaris Cross, Citroën C3 Aircross and more. They’re all here to establish themselves as it is a pretty ‘in-demand’ segment. Before moving ahead, somethings you need to know. The number of variants of the CX-3 that have been cut down is saddening. There are no All Wheel Drive or Automatic options now. They’ve been discontinued. From what used to be a generous choice from over 13 different variants, you have to choose from just 5 now.Let’s get into it.

Exteriors

Styling Elements

There is a new gloss black front grille which is a bad idea if you ask me. Dirt and mud are the way of life, the gloss black will forever be dusty and cleaning it too regularly would just take its shine away. Lose-lose. However, the new front grille is now more slender than the old iteration. The Mazda badge, which is my favourite badge in terms of design so far sits in the centre and comfortably commands power and elegance.

The headlights of the CX-3 are unchanged from the old iteration and as it should be. The headlights are well-designed and they are fully LED with DRL cutting across the iris of the headlights. The weird thing is that instead of LED fog lights, what sits away from the main cluster is halogen lights which is just unnecessary in 2024.

The rear of the Mazda CX-3 is quite simple. It is well-curved and has partial LED with halogens here as well. The rear end is made out of glossy plastic which remains to be seen how that is received by the public. The

Colour Options

The Mazda CX-3 is offered to consumers in 7 vibrant colours with some metallic finish colours at an additional cost. If you choose to opt for any other colour other than the metallic colours they’re free of charge. Metallic colours can be opted for $595. Following are the colours.

Snowflake White | Pearl Mica | Polymetal Grey | Jet Black Mica

Metallic Colours - Aero Grey | Polymetal Grey | Platinum Quartz | Soul Red Crystal | Machine Grey

Wheel Design

Depending on the Mazda CX-3 variant you choose, you get either a 16-inch tyre or an 18-inch tyre setting. All tyres are alloy wheel tyres, however the full-sized spare wheel is steel set. Following are the wheel designs and sizes of the Mazda CX-5.

• 16-inch Alloy Wheels - Mazda CX-3 Sport & Pure
  
• 18-inch Alloy Wheels - Mazda CX-3 Evolve, Touring SP, Akari

Interiors

Interior Layout & Space

While the interiors of the Mazda CX-3 are quite dated, they keep updating small segments at a time which keep the car fresh looking and also updated to the latest needs. However, the needs of he many are altered by the trends of the few. This is something Mazda has yet to learn as Mazda is following suit with other manufacturers but if it is to make a legacy name for itself in the Australian markets, Mazda wil have to start making or breaking patterns. So far, even with the update, the interiors of the Mazda CX-3 look dated.

Apart from that dashboard now comes wrapped with copped stitched suede fabric which makes the overall ambience of the Mazda CX-3 pretty sleek and comfortable. They’ve redesigned the air conditioning outlets to look like World war era planes which is a styling choice I can live with.

Now comes the worst part about the Mazda CX-3. The second row or should I say the half row. Yes, the seating is quite literally packed up and it is uncomfortable. While the Mazda CX-3 is made for 5 people, I’ll be surprised if you can fit 2 people in the second row comfortably. There is virtually no knee-room, the headroom will just give your neck a good reason to be tilted left and right in intervals and the toe room is not there due to the electrically adjustable driver seats with memory function.

Comfort & Ergonomics

The seats of the Mazda CX-3 are quite advanced. Given the price tag these cars come with it is only reasonable to ensure that there is luxury implied in almost every aspect of the car. The cars have a memory function, lumbar support and electrically adjustable seats. The Mazda CX-3 seats can be opted to have ventilated and a heating option at an extra cost. Following are the upholstery you get with variants of the Mazda CX-3.

Mazda CX-3 Sport and Pure - Black Cloth

Mazda CX-3 Evolve - White Maztex and Tan Grand Luxe  Synthetic Suede

Mazda CX-3  Touring SP - Black Leather and Grey Grand Luxe Synthetic Suede

Mazda CX-3 Akari - Black leather

Boot

What starts as an underwhelming boot space of 264 litres which is less than ideal even for a smaller car than the Mazda CX-3. There is a respite. However, how feasible the respite is, at best, is questionable. You’ll have to make your Mazda CX-3 a 2-seater if you want a bigger boot space which is around 1174 litres. Now while this boot space is immense, it won’t be very useful at times. Not the best boot space in the market so far.

Technology & Infotainment

Mada makes effective technology, that is quite uncontestable at this point in time. While the list isn’t as long as say, Kia, the list is definitely more in feel than on paper. It may look like a short list, but when you’re using these features on the road you'll feel how effortless it makes your driving experience and I think that is something Mazda has nailed to the T.

Technology Features

• 2-speed with rain-sensing wipers
• Active Driving Display
• Air-conditioning (Sport variant only)
• Dual-zone climate control
• Ambient temperature display
• Critical function warning lights/chimes
• Cruise control
• Global Open Keyless Window Control
• 2-position memory function (driver)
• 10-way power adjustment (driver)
• Adjustable head restraints
• Heating function
  

Connectivity Options

• 8-inch full-colour touchscreen display (MZD Connect)
• AM/FM tuner
• Apple CarPlay®§ (Wireless) and Android® Auto
• Auxiliary-audio input jack (3.5mm mini-stereo)
• Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio capability
• Digital radio (DAB+)
• Internet radio integration (Stitcher™ and Aha™)
• Multi-function commander control
• Radio Data System (RDS) program information
• Satellite navigation
• Speakers (6) (Except in the Akari variant)
• Bose® premium audio with 7 speakers (Akari variant exclusively)
• Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
• USB-audio input port (iPod compatible)
  

Performance & Engine

Single-engine options always dissuade customers. This is due to the fact that customers tend to think that if the engine is the same so there’s no point in investing into a higher-level variant. However, I like to look at this like so, if the engine is the same throughout the variants, I can choose the variant that suits me best and then purchase add-on packages which makes my car better and don’t make me bitter about spending too much. It’s a great opportunity for those looking to buy some affordable luxury.

Engine Specifications

Transmission & Drive System

The Mazda CX-3 runs on a 6-speed automatic transmission system. It is mated decently to the 2-litre naturally aspirated engine. However, the groggy gearbox may impact driving in the long run. The gearbox performs the way it is supposed to in the sport mode. It shifts easily and doesn’t take forever to create the impact that you’re looking for. However, you will have troubles on the road with the gearbox, it isn’t the most comfortable or the quiet bit about your car.

Braking System

The braking system of the Mazda CX-3 is ideal. Believe me, I don’t use this word easily. Equipped with Smart Brake Support, Smart City Brake Force both front and reverse and intrusion-minimising brake pedal the braking system of Mazda CX-3 is the best in the market. I cannot stress just how important a good braking system is in your car. Especially if you’re taking a car which is on the smaller side of the spectrum.

If that isn’t enough for you to consider this car, the Mazda CX-3 has disc brakes both in front and rear. The front brakes have ventilated discs while the rear brakes have solid discs. Disc brakes on every wheel and that isn’t even the best part about the Mazda CX-3.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency

There isn’t much to say about the fuel efficiency of the Mazda CX-3. From an objective point, you can’t say the efficiency of 6.3 litres for every 100 kilometres is good or bad. It's right in the middle. Given the 48-litre tank capacity, this gives you a great driving distance on a full tank. However, real-world figures may vary depending upon the driving conditions, driving habits and overall terrain type you take it on. Even though the Mazda CX-3 has a towing capacity of 1535kg, I suggest it best if you don’t.

Handling & Driving Dynamics

Most of the time you can’t tell the difference between driving the Mazda 2 and Mazda CX-3. The same body roll, the same good pick-up, great braking system. However, the notable difference between the two is that the Mazda CX-3 is peppier and powerful. Even though it has just a 2-litre aspirated engine, it does alot more than you’d expect it to.

A great thing about the Mazda CX-3 is that there is a sport mode toggle which makes a greater difference and jets you across the road. Mind you there is a considerable body roll with the Mazda CX-3 so you may not want to turn at high speed given the car isn’t very heavy to begin with. Apart from that Sport mode does exactly what it offers to do and makes driving the car fun.

Safety Features

The Mazda CX-3 boasts one of the most well-tuned safety features. It is extremely well calibrated, which means that no premature dings to annoy you or dings that are delayed which might cause you trouble. As you can see below, the list is quite generous and the best thing about that is every feature is standard to every variant of the Mazda CX-3.

• 360°
• View Monitor
• Adaptive LED Headlamps (ALH)
• Advanced keyless entry
• Advanced keyless push-button engine start
• 7 SRS Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
• Childproof rear door locks
• Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
• Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
• Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)
• Engine immobiliser
• High mount stop lamp
• High Beam Control (HBC)
• Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
• Intrusion-minimising brake pedal
• ISOFIX child restraint anchor points and top tethers
  

Advanced Safety Features

• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Left-hand-side convex (wide angle) exterior mirror
• Parking sensors (front)
• Parking sensors (rear)
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Remote central locking (2 transmitters)
• Reverse camera
• Seat-belt warning (front and rear)
• Seat-belts 3-point lap-sash (all seats)
• Seat belts (front) with pre-tensioners,
• Load-limiters
• Height-adjustable shoulder anchorages
• Side impact door beams
• Smart City Brake Support [Forward/Reverse] with front pedestrian detection
• Smart Brake Support (SBS)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
• ‘Triple H’ safety construction with front and rear crumple zones
• Whiplash-minimising front seat
  
  
  

Crash Test Ratings

The Mazda CX-3 does not have a valid ANCAP report. The last ANCAP report expired in December 2022. The CX-3s being sold in the market since January 2023 have not had an official report. We are yet to see a new report but there doesn’t seem to be one on the horizon so far.

Ownership Experience

Owning a Mazda CX-3 offers a dynamic and engaging experience, highlighted by its sporty design, responsive performance, and high-quality interior. The CX-3’s sleek exterior stands out with its bold lines and stylish aesthetics, making it a head-turner on the road. Inside, the cabin exudes a premium feel with upscale materials and a driver-focused layout, ensuring both comfort and convenience. The compact size makes it ideal for urban driving while still providing ample space for passengers and cargo. The Mazda Connect infotainment system, featuring a clear display and easy smartphone integration, keeps drivers connected and entertained. Safety is well-addressed with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and smart city brake support, contributing to a secure driving experience. The CX-3’s agile handling and efficient engine deliver a spirited yet fuel-efficient ride. Mazda's reputation for reliability, coupled with excellent build quality, ensures a satisfying and trouble-free ownership experience, making the CX-3 a top choice in the subcompact SUV segment.

Major Drawbacks

• Not the most practical car on the market today. The car offers affordability but the compromise you’ll be making just to own a car will not be worth owning the car in the long run.
  
• Boot space is hilariously small. It won't serve any major purpose for individuals or families as it is just too restricted. The only reason to buy a Mazda CX-3 is that you can.
  

Major Strengths

• Pick-up speed is something that may delight ou. The Mazda CX-3 goes from 0 ton 100 in 9.3 seconds. Which is great considering a small SUV and an aspirated engine.
  
• Traction control is pretty good. There are torsion beams running on the rear axle which makes the car pretty controlled.
  

Maintenance & Warranty Information

Mazda prides itself on its commitment to quality and it truly reflects through its 5-year/ Unlimited Kilometres warranty. Mazda also offers roadside assistance for upto 5 years depending on the package you choose. Following are the service schedules and prices that Mazda offers.

Read more and learn more about the service pricing here.

Verdict

Mazda makes some really good SUVs. I take no pleasure in saying that Mazda just doesn’t make good small SUVs. Mazda CX-60 and Mazda CX-90 are great cars and have been acknowledged so. It is just the small boot space, the loud cabin and so many more small things that have piled on that have led to this conclusion of mine. Sure the car is very affordable and has a quick pick-up but that just makes it a good for novice drivers trying to create a ruckus than a sensible car for individuals and families. My verdict would come down to hoping that you test drive this car when full, do a drive through across some hair pin turns and see if you want to adjust to how the car makes you feel in the long run.

Reference

Brochure

Owners Manual