New vs. old Mazda CX-3: What are the main differences?
You'll need a keen eye in order to differentiate the old model from the latest Mazda CX-3. Let's play 'spot the difference' between the 2015 and current-generation model which has enjoyed its fair share of upgrades and a mild facelift.
2015: Five available models at the time of the launch
The Mazda CX-3 was introduced to the local market in 2015 and was immensely well-received. SA buyers could choose from 5 derivatives: The Mazda CX-3 2.0L Active Manual (R254 900), Active Auto (R 270 400, 2.0L Dynamic Manual (R277 900), Dynamic Auto (R288 400) and the 2.0L Individual Auto (R325 900 - pricing accurate at the time of the launch). All variants had an output of 115kW and 204 Nm from the naturally-aspirated, 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G engine.
G-Vectoring Control and a new derivative with added features for 2017
"The G-Vectoring Control (GVC) was the first innovation from this series and was introduced in the 2017 model year Mazda CX-3. It engages by finely controlling engine torque that is based on the steering and acceleration of the driver, resulting in improved handling for the driver and ride quality for the passengers around corners", enthused Mazda.
If you want to know (and see) see how it works, watch this video on AutoTrader: Mazda G-Vectoring Control Explained, using the Mazda3 Astina Plus.
The 2017 CX-3 model range also added the Mazda CX-3 2.0L Individual Plus derivative with safety features such as Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Driver Attention Alert (DAA) and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), available in two new colours: Machine Grey (see above) and Eternal Blue Mica.
2018 Update and facelift
For 2018, performance is enhanced with upgrades to the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 litre petrol engine and "big improvements in ride feel and quietness." An electric parking brake and other new features were added to enhance functionality, along with a host of other interior and exterior updates, that are hard to spot with the naked eye:
"Design improvements include front fog lamp bezel colour change to black, up-styled 18-inch alloy wheels and the Mazda grill refined to consist of fewer, more pronounced lines. Representing the next level of Mazda’s premium colour palette, Soul Red Crystal is now available across the range. LED rear combination lamps are now available for the Individual and Individual Plus derivatives.
"Inside, the front centre console armrest and electric parking brake (EPB) are introduced from the Active derivative for a more premium finish and enhanced comfort. The rear centre seat armrest with cup holders and automatic dimming rearview mirror are available from the Dynamic derivative. The Individual and Individual Plus derivatives now come standard with full leather seat upholstery."
The model line-up remained unchanged with six derivatives that feature the 115kW, 2.0L SKYACTIV petrol-engine, mated to either a 6-speed Manual or Automatic transmission.
Grade walk
Mazda CX-3 2.0L Active FWD Manual
2.0L Active FWD Auto
- Maximum power: 115kW
- Maximum torque: 206Nm
- 16" Alloy wheels
- Halogen headlamps
- Power folding mirrors
- Manual air-conditioning
- Electronic park brake
- Radio - CD/ AUX / USB
- 4 Speakers
- Bluetooth
- Multi-function steering wheel with audio controls
- Cruise control
- Front centre console armrest
- Smart keyless push-button engine start
- Front fog lamp bezel colour change (Black)
- i-Stop (available from 2.0 Active Auto transmission)
Mazda CX-3 2.0L Dynamic FWD Manual
2.0L Dynamic FWD Automatic
- Auto headlamps
- Front LED fog lamp
- Front rain-sensing wipers
- MZD Connect system 7-inch display screen
- MZD Commander
- 6 Speakers
- Leather steering wheel
- Leather gear knob
- Auto air-conditioning
- Sunglass holder
- Rear centre seat armrest with cupholders
- Auto-dimming interior mirror
- Smart advanced keyless entry
- Parking sensors (Rear)
Mazda CX-3 2.0L Individual FWD Automatic
- 18" Alloy wheels
- LED headlamps
- Daytime running lamps (LED)
- Chrome side door garnish
- Power sliding and tilt glass sunroof
- Parking sensors (Rear) with reverse camera
- Full leather seats
- BOSE sound system with 7 Speakers
- Head-up display (HUD)
- Integrated Navigation
- LED rear combination lamps
Mazda CX-3 2.0L Individual Plus FWD Automatic
- Auto fold mirrors
- Adaptive Headlamps (ALH) - LED
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Smart City Brake Support (SCBS)
- Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
Current *pricing for the Mazda CX-3 (September 2021)
A new flagship model, the Mazda CX-3 2.0 Hikari, replaced the Individual Plus Auto recently. Sean reviews it here. It retails for R476 799.
| Mazda CX-3 2.0 Active | R251 900 |
| Mazda CX-3 2.0 Active auto | R372 000 |
| Mazda CX-3 2.0 Dynamic | R384 700 |
| Mazda CX-3 2.0 Dynamic auto | R398 800 |
| Mazda CX-3 2.0 Individual | R457 700 |
| Mazda CX-3 2.0 Hikari | R476 700 |
*Pricing was correct at the time this article was published but may increase without prior notice.
Source: Mazda South Africa
