The differentiation between a compact crossover SUV and a sedan is quickly becoming a blurred line and soon we will see most of these tiny crossovers show up with the same size as the wagons we all hated for so many years. Even though these vehicles are getting progressively smaller, they are also becoming much better and the Mazda CX-3 is a great example of this trend toward the better. The CX-3 offers the use of the entire suite of Skyactiv technologies and a highly sophisticated Kodo design that has become a signature of the Mazda lineup.
The CX-3 is built on the same platform that will come out as the Mazda2 and gives us a small SUV with a massive amount of capabilities. Even though it’s not the most powerful vehicle in the class, it is one of the most fun to drive, taking on the “zoom zoom” mantra that follows every Mazda vehicle. This is the result of a highly active suspension, steering and fully balanced chassis to make this an SUV that can carve up the corners and run through traffic with a huge smile plastered on its face as it begs for more when it comes out on the other end.
As I said, it’s not the most powerful, but that power does the job. In fact the Mazda CX-3 only offers you one engine so you won’t have to worry about what you want to power it. This engine is a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder model that makes 146 horsepower and 146 lb.-ft. of torque. While this doesn’t seem to be much it does a great job of being enthusiastic on the road and it’s attached to a six-speed automatic transmission that receives paddle shifters in the GT model. The fuel mileage for this little SUV is 29 city/35 hwy mpg for the FWD model and 27 city/32 hwy mpg for the AWD version.
When you take a look at the Kodo design on the outside of the CX-3 it’s easy to see how beautiful the vehicle is with its smooth design. With design lines that move your eye easily across all surfaces of the CX-3 you will enjoy a beautiful front fascia that transitions to the hood and fenders easily as you move your vision to the back of this sleek and low slung design that is truly a work of art from the Mazda design team.
On the inside, the base Sport trim gives a monotone look that is enticing while the Touring model adds the Leatherette and the Grand Touring shows up with real leather/Lux Suede seats. The gauges are easy to see and enjoy and the infotainment system uses a seven-inch screen. Even though this is a small SUV there is space inside for five to ride and enjoy the updated and upgraded features that come on a new vehicle.
Speaking of features, the standard offering for the CX-3 Sport includes a 60/40 split folding rear bench, the Mazda Connect infotainment system, a rearview camera, voice command, multi-function commander control, Bluetooth connectivity, push button starting, USB input, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows and door locks and keyless entry. All of this gives you a very nice SUV to drive from the standard model, but most are going to want to upgrade, especially at the price the CX-3 comes in.
The optional features include a six-speaker audio system, heated exterior mirrors, a moonroof, mirror-mounted turn signal lights, leatherette seats, a seven-speaker premium Bose audio system, a power glass moonroof, Sirius XM/HD Radio, heated seats and a cargo cover all available on the midlevel Touring model. At the Grand Touring level you can have 18-inch alloy wheels, a power moonroof, leather and suede seats, LED headlights, fog lights, daytime running lights, a navigation system, a Bose premium audio system, automatic climate control, an Active Driving Display, paddle shifters, front heated seats and a cargo cover. The GT i-Activsense package adds the Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Smart Brake Support and several other sporty features to make the CX-3 a great SUV to drive.
With a price range that starts at $20,800 and tops out at $26,000 it’s easy to see how the CX-3 can be extremely affordable. With a dynamic Mazda driving system and the sporty good looks of the Kodo design and tons of fun stuff to put inside it’s easy to see why so many now fall in love with these small SUVs that drive much like sedans.
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