Mazda Range / versions Salón de Los Ángeles SUV
Mazda CX-3; the smallest SUV from the Japanese brand
Daniel Valdivielso @valdi92
19 November 2014
3 min. 
Only a couple of days ago we learned of the launch in Spain of the CX-9, and now Mazda surprises us with the CX-3.
On this occasion we are talking about the smallest SUV in the Japanese manufacturer’s range, which will reach dealerships in the second half of 2015.
The CX-3 arrives to go head-to-head with models that have become genuine bestsellers. We are talking about the Nissan Juke, the Peugeot 2008 or the Mini Countryman. In addition, within a few months the battle will be joined by new rivals such as the Fiat 500X, which is being presented internationally in Italy these days.
We cannot deny that the exterior design of the CX-3 follows the lines that the CX-5 set at the time. Denying the evidence would be foolish, although this fact is not bad news. In fact, the CX-5 is one of the most attractive mid-size SUVs thanks to a design free of flashiness but with a dynamic touch. For the CX-3, the people at Mazda have decided to reapply the recipe, resulting in what, in my personal opinion, is one of the most appealing small SUVs on the market at the moment.
The front of the CX-3 stands out for its sportiness, taking features directly from the MX-5, the small roadster that was completely renewed just three months ago. The headlights, with a very sharp design, emphasise the vehicle’s “gaze”, and combined with two small vertical units at the lower part of the bumper they make up a strong and attractive image. Of course, the central part of the nose is dominated by the grille, large and angular in shape, fully recognisable and which has become the family face.
The side profile is perhaps the area that incorporates the most novelties. It could be described as a blend between the Mazda 2 and the MX-5: while the sloping roofline and glazed surface may quickly remind one of the small Japanese city car, the body creases, as well as a very high and curved waistline, faithfully recall the side design of the Miata. The rear houses very stylish, compact light clusters, as well as a rear window which, although it offers a very attractive look, does not appear to provide the best visibility.
Inside, the ambience is very similar to that of the Mazda 2. The dashboard, dominated by a fixed colour screen (neither folding, retractable nor adjustable), stands out for the absence of sharp edges; everything in the interior of the Mazda CX-3 consists of curved, flowing lines. The instrumentation, taken directly from the Mazda 3, presents a very attractive image thanks to its metallic finishes. A Head-Up Display can be fitted, providing supplementary information without the need to take your eyes off the road.
The finishes, at first glance, appear good, as do the materials used, although we will not be able to confirm this impression until we can analyse it in person. What we do see is that Mazda has made a great effort over recent times to improve the image of its interiors, something reflected in this cabin where leather finishes can be found on the dashboard, doors and seats, as well as lacquered or metallic trim that enhances the sense of quality.
As for engines, the CX-3 will be available with three powertrains, two petrol and one diesel. The petrol options are the already familiar 2.0 SKYACTIV-G, available in two power levels (120 and 165 CV), while the diesel will be the new 1.5 SKYACTIV-D, which in the Mazda 2 produces 105 CV. All engines can be paired with six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes, with an optional on-demand all-wheel-drive system available.
Source | Mazda
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