The CX-3 is a subcompact crossover SUV based on the Mazda 2 platform. Apart from their similarity in appearance, both the CX-3 and Mazda 2 share a lot of their components. The CX-3 is the smallest in a series of crossover or CUV offerings from Mazda that are becoming very popular for their practicality. Mazda's reputation for reliability and great value for money has also boosted the marketing of this entry-level crossover. It is an ideal choice for people who need a bit more cargo space and a higher ride than the usual car for everyday use and any weather. The CX-3 is priced close to the Mazda 2, allowing the buyer to choose a small SUV or a car.
It is styled like a sporty hatchback but runs with either front-wheel drive or the more desirable all-wheel drive. What makes it competitive is that it is an entry-level car offering features that are typically found in more expensive models. The interior exhibits high-quality materials and craftsmanship with different trim variants to cater to a wide range of buyers.
The CX-3 is longer than the Mazda 2 but shorter than the CX-5. Interior space in front is adequate even for tall adults but suffers a bit on the head and legroom for the rear seats. Cargo space is expandable if rear seats are folded down.
Engine and Trim Options
Australia received the 2015 model year with several engines and trim variants to choose from. The CX-3 takes advantage of the SkyActiv technologies, with the higher trim variants also incorporating the i-Activesense package.
1. 1.5L diesel SkyActiv-D S5-DPTR (77 kW / 270 N⋅m)
- Akari (AWD)
- Maxx (FWD)
- Maxx Safety (AWD)
- S Touring (AWD)
- S Touring Safety (AWD)
- Akari (AWD) (5YR), 2018
- S Touring (AWD) (5YR), 2018
2. 2.0L Petrol SkyActiv-G PE-VPS (109 kW / 192 N⋅m)
- Akari (AWD)
- Akari (FWD)
- Maxx (AWD)
- Maxx (FWD)
- Maxx Safety (AWD)
- Maxx Safety (FWD)
- Neo (FWD)
- Neo Safety (FWD)
- S Touring (AWD)
- S Touring (FWD)
- S Touring Safety (AWD)
- S Touring Safety (FWD)
- Akari (AWD) (5YR), 2018
- Akari (FWD) (5YR), 2018
- Maxx (AWD) (5YR), 2018
- Maxx (FWD) (5YR), 2018
- Maxx Sport (AWD), 2018
- Neo (FWD) (5YR), 2018
- S Touring (AWD) (5YR), 2018
- S Touring (FWD) (5YR), 2018
- Akari LE (AWD), 2020
- Akari LE (FWD), 2020
3. 1.8L diesel SkyActiv-D S8-DPTR (85 kW / 270 N⋅m)
- Akari (AWD), 2018
- Maxx Sport (FWD), 2018
Elsewhere in the world, the 1.3L Petrol SkyActiv-G turbocharged (62 kW / 113 N⋅m) was also offered, and trim variants generally varied from one market to another.
The CX-3 has the driver and passenger front and side airbags with side curtains, offered as either standard or optional equipment depending on the country or market. Other features include the Hill Start Assist, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, ABS, Brake assist and a host of others we come to expect from a reputable car manufacturer.
The front-wheel-drive 2.0L petrol models were advertised with a top speed of 200 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h of 8.7 seconds. Although not very fast from a standstill, the top of the line petrol version more than makes up for it in real-world driving with decent handling and comfort.
CX-3 in the Used Car Market
The CX-3 is a fairly new model with the current ones not far different from the first release. The initial pricing segment of the CX-3 was a bit of a mystery as it was priced closely with the Mazda 2 but not much cheaper than the bigger CX-5 SUV.
The CX-3 is a good-sized daily driver and doubles up as a small SUV for the family. The smaller and lighter frame as compared to the CX-5 makes this more agile even with the smaller displacement engines in either petrol or diesel form if you don't need the extra space.
If you own a CX-3, chances are you would need parts at one time or another, and prices out there can differ significantly. Visit us at Carpart.com.au and compare our sellers' price and stocks and find out why we are the go-to marketplace for new and good-condition used car parts. If you can't find the item you need from our list, contact us at hello@carpart.com.au, and we'd be very happy to assist you.
Fred Cajulis