Mazda CX-3

Overview

Following the trend of unveiling compact SUVs based on the platforms of existing sedans/hatchbacks, Mazda too has come up with the ravishing CX-3. Based on the Mazda 2 series of hatchback and sedan, the Mazda CX-3 might not be a proper SUV given its limited SUV-like stance. However, with a raised ride height and astonishing coupe-like design, the Mazda CX-3 is quite a looker. The CX-3 is available in three different variants – Pro, Sport and Activ, each of which comes with a single powertrain option of a petrol engine mated to an automatic gearbox. The color options available for the Mazda CX-3 are Ceramic, Eternal Blue, Jet Black, Machine Grey, Snowflake White Pearl, Soul Red and Titanium Flash.

Interior & Features

On the inside, the Mazda CX-3 looks like a carbon copy of the interiors of the Mazda 2 hatchback and sedan, which is quite obvious. But that doesn’t mean a bad thing, for the Mazda CX-3’s cabin is one of the sportiest and most sophisticated looking one in its segment.

The overall theme for the interior has been done on the round-theme, which is why many bits in the cabin, such as the three-spoke themed steering wheel with round center boss, controls for AC and AC vents, are shaped in circular fashion. The three-partitioned instrument console with its centrally mounted speedometer and MID screen on either side for readouts of various data on display looks quite funky too.

The dashboard looks subtle with its horizontal layout and prominent line separating two circular AC vents, thus making it look elegant. The center console is positioned quite low and feels premium due to silver and leather elements.  The pop-up style touchscreen infotainment system, which is one of the hottest trends in the auto industry, doesn’t looks out of the place.

The Mazda CX-3 is equipped with features such as push start-stop button, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel, manually adjustable driver’s seat, leather upholstery, paddle shifter, ambient lighting and a six speaker BOSE audio system with a touchscreen panel. The overall space levels are quite decent, with space enough to seat two adults with ease. However, the limited shoulder-room due to sloping roofline eats up some amount of space for the third passenger.

Exterior

In terms of design, the Mazda CX-3 shares a lot with the car it is based on, the Mazda 2 hatchback. There are a lot of similarities between both the cars in and out, and here we will talk about the latter part.

On the outside, the Mazda CX-3 has got the family open-mouth like grille, which does get chrome accents on the lower and side portions. The side edges of the chrome finish extend towards the headlamps, which too are straightly lifted off from the Mazda 2. However, the front bumper is re-styled here with new shape of fog lamps, and the addition of lower body cladding here adds some toughness to the otherwise swanky front end.

When viewed from the rear, the Mazda CX-3 looks a lot like the Mazda 2, thanks to the two substantial and smooth curves present on the side profile. The door-mounted rear view mirrors, curve like shoulder line and diamond cut alloy wheels make the car look more like a lifted stylish hatchback rather than an SUV. However, the bigger ground clearance and body cladding below adds some substance, which make it look bigger than the hatchback sibling.

At the rear, things get pretty different as the Mazda CX-3’s rear hatch looks more detailed in design as compared to the Mazda 2. The blackened C-pillar, wing like tail lamps, roof mounted rear spoiler and dual exhaust pipes make the CX-3 look very sporty. The presence of body cladding at the rear profile too is a welcoming addition.

Ride & Handling

The Mazda CX-3 gets a rather conventional setup of  MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, which is quite a basic setup for a car of this stature. However, as expected, the Mazda CX-3 gets the famous G-Vectoring control, which ensures that the car remains sure footed and planted on each and every driving condition. The Mazda CX-3 has got a small turning radius of 5.3m, making it quite easy to handle in tight city traffic conditions. The ground clearance of 155mm is not too big to take it around for off-roading, however, it does give it extra height to overcome bigger potholes and rough patches.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

The Philippine-spec Mazda CX-3 has got only one engine and transmission combination under its hood. The engine powering the CX-3 is a 2.0 liter petrol motor which belts out 148 PS of maximum power and 192 Nm of maximum torque. The engine comes paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission which gets an additional assistance of paddle shifters with sport mode, thus making the overall engine performance pretty responsive.

Braking & Safety

The smallest SUV from Mazda has got the basics cleared when it comes to safety. While it doesn’t get a lot of modern electronic safety aids, it does come with front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, dynamic stability control, reverse camera with parking sensors and engine immobilizer. However, given its price positioning, it does feel lacking and could have been equipped with a couple of more safety features.

Verdict

The Mazda CX-3 might not be the quintessential SUV in terms of looks and driving dynamics. But then, its lifted stance and proportionate dimensions give it the much required substance to call it a big vehicle. The CX-3 features Mazda’s latest design philosophy with even better poise, making it look aerodynamic and sporty. On the other hand, the interiors, though simple in layout, feel plush and better built, and one does get a plenty of features to play around with. The performance from the 2.0 liter petrol engine is overwhelming for a car of this size, and Mazda’s technologies related to driving dynamics make the performance even more involving.