Mazda CX-3

Mazda introduced the 2018 Mazda CX-3 to bite into the slice of the B-segment SUV market. In the 2018 update, the CX-3 continues to show off its driving prowess over its competitors, the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR. Thanks to Mazda's update with GVC, the CX-3 has a much-improved comfort level and even better cornering skills.

In Brief: Mazda CX-3, fun-sized but is it good enough for you?

Honda HR-V vs. Mazda CX-3: Practicality or Fun To Drive?

Design

There is no mistaking the CX-3 as a Mazda thanks to the Kodo design language. The SUV has a sharp presence that gives the impression of slicing through the air.

Dimension

The Mazda CX-3 measures in at 4,275 x 1,765 x 1,535 x 2,570 mm in length, width, height, wheelbase.

Lighting

The Mazda CX-3's headlight and daytime running lights are made up of LED lightings to further enhance the Kodo language design.

Wheels 

The CX-3 rolls on stylish 18-inch wheels.

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Dashboard

Since the introduction of Mazda Skyactiv, Mazdas has been well known for their premium interior in their cars, even the small entry-level Mazda 2. The CX-3's dashboard is similar to that to the Mazda 2, covered in soft-touch leather relieved by grey Alcantara leather. The premium interior is further enhanced by the rounded air-cond vents and the smooth quality plastics used.

Instrument Cluster

The instrument cluster is dominated by the backlit analogue rev metre in the centre. Mazda has boasted that they have specifically rearranged all important alerts as ergonomically as possible for the CX-3.

Storage Compartment

In the facelift, the CX-3 boasts a rather large centre console chamber for a Mazda. Though that seems to make up for all the space in the car as the rest of the cubby spaces are small and only fits small items. As with all Mazdas, the CX-3 is not big on space. With the front seats pushed all the way back, the CX-3's rear passengers get only a scant 12 cm worth of space to fit into.

Boot 

Like the legroom, the boot space is not big either. The boot is also too high for easy loading access.

Safety Features

The CX-3 has 6 airbags, dynamic stability control and traction control, along with brake assist. These are also helped by active safety equipment like Blind-spot Monitor and even Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Comfort Features

Premium leather bucket seats come as a standard in the CX-3. The driver's seat also gets 10-way power adjustments and also head-up display to reduce the need to look down at the instrument cluster for important information.

Infotainment

The touchscreen is a 7-inch full-colour display that houses all the functions of MZD Connect with voice command functions. The Infotainment also has its own Navigation system although this would require extra charges to keep it updated.

Engine

The Mazda CX-3 is powered by a 2.0-litre Skyactiv engine that dispenses 156 PS and 206 Nm of torque.

Transmission

The CX-3's 2.0-litre engine is mated to a Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed conventional automatic transmission.

Chassis

The steering system is equipped with Electric Power Assisted System (EPAS).

Drivetrain

Despite being an SUV, the CX-3 is front-wheel drive only.

Engine Performance

Being heavily perfected by Mazda's Skyactiv drive influence, the CX-3 expectedly continues the brilliant driving performance that has been well-known in all Mazda cars in the Skyactive generation. The engine is quick to respond and has the ability to cajole you to have more fun on a smooth highway, but is still smooth and seamless when it comes to heavy congestions.

Transmission Performance

The 6-speed conventional automatic is a unit that provides smooth and seamless gearshifts and doesn't take away the fuel economy of the car.

Steering and Handling

Mazdas are well known to have the best handling in its class. With the added help of GVC, the CX-3's steering and handling are weighted just right to allow you a corner happy drive and a steady cruise.

Sound Proofing

The current facelift has seen an improvement in soundproofing. Mazda has sealed the car well so that a rigorous drive does not allow wind to seep through into the cabin though it is still not the quietest in its class.

Passenger Comfort 

In its latest iteration, Mazda has added their famed GVC system to the CX-3. GVC not only helps the car handle better but give passengers a more comfortable ride by reducing the body roll movements in the cabin.

Fuel Consumption

Mazda claims 6.3-litre / 100 km tested based on UN R101 fuel test method.

Out of all the B-segment SUVs available in the market, the CX-3 is hands down the driver's car. While the HR-V offers space, and the C-HR offers comfort, the CX-3 offers the best driving experience you can get.