Rivervale's Guide to the Updated Mazda CX-3

Subcompact SUVs are among one of the hottest sellers on the market to date, and a car that’s become hugely popular is the facelifted 2019 Mazda CX-3...

The Mazda CX-3 was first introduced back in 2015 and since then its become the second biggest seller for Mazda in European markets. Mazda didn't want to change too much with its redesign, but it has been sharpened up and looks and feels better than ever before!

With competition in the compact crossover SUV market so intense, the CX-3 does well to compete with its rivals. Key competitors include the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008, Volkswagen T-Cross, Kia Stonic and Fiat 500x.

Our Account Manager Rob takes you on a guided tour around the 2019 Mazda CX-3...

Mazda CX-3 exterior features

The new CX-3 is based on the successful Mazda 2 Supermini, as it shares much of the same features to its Mazda 2 sibling and applies it directly to the CX-3. However, none of the credit should go to the Mazda 2 for the design and styling, that is unique to the CX-3. For starters, the way the narrow headlights at the front seamlessly integrates with the wide grille to help make the CX-3 look more aggressive. The grille now features 8 bars instead of the previous 7, and that makes it look a little bit bolder and crisper when driving on the road.

The alloy wheels have also been redesigned, and buyers can opt between 16-18 inches, with the latter only available as standard on Sport Nav+ models. Another visual difference compared to the old model is the way the roof line falls away into an angled rear window, making the new CX-3 feel very dynamic and sporty. At the rear, the CX-3 is more sculpted than the Mazda 2, which features larger boomerang headlights and a more rounded design. Another new change to the rear just below the right tail light is the “SkyActive Technology” badge, which indicates that buyers will have new engines to choose from.

Mazda CX-3 Petrol and Diesel engines

Underneath the bonnet, there are three engines for buyers to choose from: 119hp and 148hp 2.0-litre petrols or a 113hp 1.8-litre diesel. Beyond just the numbers, you either have the choice of getting these engines with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. All engines can either be geared to a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. With a manual gearbox and front-wheel drive the 119hp model can reach a 0-62mph time in 9 seconds. If you opt for all-wheel drive on the 148hp model with a manual gearbox, then it’ll complete the 0-62mph sprint in just 8.8 seconds. The latter 1.8 diesel model has a 0-62mph time of 11 seconds.

More Mazda news: Rivervale reviews the 2018 Mazda 6

The 119hp 2.0-litre petrol is ideal for buyers who drive to and from the city on a frequent basis, while the 1.8-litre diesel is designed more for people who drive a lot on the motorway. Mazda says that the 119hp 2.0-litre petrol can return more than 42mpg. The 1.8-litre diesel model however is much more practical than both the petrols - it can return more than 55mpg in real-world conditions and can keep up with fast moving traffic at ease. The 148hp 2.0-litre petrol comes with four-wheel drive as standard, which helps to improve traction on slippery/icy roads - perfect for towing a trailer or if you live in a place where the weather is generally icy/wintry.

Inside the Mazda CX-3: Interior, technology and practicality

Inside the upscale look and feel continues. All CX-3 models feature a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that sits proudly right on top of the dashboard. It is responsive and easy to operate via the touchscreen or the rotary dials on the centre console, as well as the shortcut buttons mounted down by the gear lever. The analog heating and cooling dials below the dash are intuitive and very straightforward to use when driving. The manual handbrake has been replaced by an electronic handbrake, which frees up a lot of space for the centre console. Not only do you have a comfortable arm rest, but underneath you get an adequate storage area to keep your valuables i.e. mobile phone devices, wallets, etc. which also comes nicely equipped with a flip-out cup-holder. You get sat-nav, cruise control, air conditioning, keyless entry, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard across the range.

The Mazda CX-3 has a relatively decent sized boot space - 350 litres with five seats in place. That’s about the same amount you would get in the Nissan Juke. The boot lid of the CX-3 can easily be lifted up to give you a second layer of storage. The back seats fold down in a two-way (60:40) split, allowing you to carry long luggage in the boot and a passenger all at once. When the rear seats are lowered, you get 1,260-litres of boot space - more than the Renault Captur.

Although the CX-3 is a subcompact SUV, there is in fact a decent amount of headroom in both the front and backseats. The front seats offer plenty of adjustment to help you get comfortable, even if you’re tall. The back seats can easily accommodate two taller adults or three children and the rear-wide doors make it relatively easy to climb in and out of. Every model comes fitted with Isofix points installed. To access the Isofix points, you must look carefully behind the seat padding - there you’ll be able to fit the baby seats for your child/children.

Mazda CX-3 models

The Mazda CX-3 is available in three trim levels, the entry level SE Nav+, and the top of the range Sport Nav+ with SE-L Nav inbetween.

Standard features found at each trim level can be seen via the table below;

Prices for the new Mazda CX-3 start at £19,395

If you would like to discuss CX-3 car leasing options with an Account Manager - give us a call on 01273 433480 or request a callback today.