Revisiting the Revised Mazda CX-3

By Chad Lückhoff

Recent updates to the Mazda CX-3 improve the drive and create a better cabin for all.

 

I'm going to start this review in a rather negative way, but I implore you to hear me out. The Mazda CX-3 is the worst car that Mazda makes (aside from the BT-50, which is actually an LCV). Yes, this is a bold statement and probably the unpopular opinion but I will stand by my words.

However, saying that it is the worst car that Mazda makes is like saying “'Yellow Submarine' is the worst Beatles album” because it only went Gold, and not Platinum. The CX-3 is still a great car, it's just not as good as the rest of the current Mazda range.

The CX-3 has been with us long enough for it to receive a few updates for the 2019 model year, and while not a complete overhaul, just a few touches to make it better than before.

 

Styling

While the exterior styling has remained largely unchanged, the eagle-eyed will spot new 18-inch alloy wheels, and LED tail lamps on the Individual models and black fog lamp surrounds – so much the same then.

It's inside where the changes are a little more evident with a new steering wheel design as well as full leather for the Individual models. Lower-spec derivatives benefit from a center console redesign and electronic parking brake.

The individual model we tested was fitted with rather attractive Alcantara trim piece in the dashboard, offset by red detail rings in the circular air vents. It's a small detail but it goes a long way to elevate the feel of the cabin.

 

The Drive

All 2.0-litre Mazda models feature Mazda's innovative G-Vectoring Control, or GVC for short. This system monitors the steering input, throttle and road speed and actuates the throttle on turn in to provide an improved feel through the steering and increase the load on the front tyres, yielding more grip, akin to a 2-way limited slip differential.

 

Performance

Every Mazda CX-3 gets this GVC as you only have the one engine to choose from, the 2.0-litre SKYACTIV petrol engine with 115 kW and 206 Nm. You do however get to choose your preferred method of gear changing.

Active and Dynamic models can be had with either a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox while the Individual models, Individual and Individual Plus are only fitted with the 6-speed automatic.

 

Space and Comfort

Space is the one area where the small crossover struggles and one of the reasons why I would personally opt for a Mazda2 over the CX-3. While space up front is fairly generous, the head and legroom in the rear is compromised and adults will struggle to contend with the restrictions on long journeys.

The boot space is also pinched with 264-litres available. By comparison, the compact Mazda2 offers a more generous 280-litres. While this may not be the end of the world for some, it drops it a few points in my book.

 

Safety

The packing space may be compromised, but safety isn't skimped on, not even in the lower-grade models.

All CX-3s are fitted with driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags along with ABS, EBD, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Hill Launch Assist (HLA).

Individual Plus models benefit further from the inclusion of Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), and Driver Attention Alert (DAA).

 

Fuel Consumption

A naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine up at Johannesburg altitudes is always going to suffer a little in the economy stakes and despite Mazda quoting figures of 6.7l/100km on the combined cycle, we were returning figures in the mid 7s.

This is still more than acceptable, considering that the CX-3 is packaged with so much convenience and safety.

 

Price

Mazda CX-3 2.0 Active		R299 400
Mazda CX-3 2.0 Active auto		R316 900
Mazda CX-3 2.0 Dynamic		R326 300
Mazda CX-3 2.0 Dynamic auto		R338 500
Mazda CX-3 2.0 Individual auto		R389 400
Mazda CX-3 2.0 Individual Plus auto		R404 200

 

The Verdict

While I still believe that the CX-3 is the least desirable offering (for my needs at least) in the Mazda range, it remains a wonderful offering. Judging by the numbers seen on the roads, it's found a place in many driveways and hearts. The new updates make it considerably sweeter and presents great value for money, especially with Mazda's 3-year/unlimited km warranty and service plan.