2019 Mazda CX-3 – Test Drive, Review, Ratins, Specs

The Mazda CX-3 Strips Down to the Essentials

Smaller, but not too small, the Mazda CX-3 is the tiniest of the Skyactiv cross-over lineup. By shrinking its size, the CX-3 offers more compactness inside out without compromising the sleek and modern looks shared with its CX-5 and CX-9 bigger brothers.

In terms of size, there are others out there at a similar dollar scale. The Ford Focus/Fiesta, Toyota RAV4, Honda CRV and Nissan Rogue are all contenders that stack up against the Mazda CX-3. But where CX-3 shines in our books is its exterior cosmetics. At only two years old in its current generation, its looks are still fresh among the bunch, and its overall sculpture carefully guided by the Mazda’s Kodo design language ensures a display of beauty and aesthetics when looked at from every angle.

The already well tailored dress that the CX-3 wears continues to get better and better.  New for 2019 sharpens up its dress code with chrome trimming on its lower side skirts and front grille while interior treatment receives a newer faux-suede lie material across its center console to give it a more softer higher grade feel.

Keeping the Things that Matter Most

Despite a quality downgrade compared to the CX-5 the Mazda CX-3 still holds above average quality. The leather seats equipped on our GT model provides a good level of comfort, and all plastic panels layered within are durable enough to withstand the typical everyday use. Detailing within is kept minimal though, and front seating area is a bit of a tight squeeze. The same can be said for the rear seats on the latter statement as well. Despite its dimensional constraints, it was still something that couples and small families can accustom to.

Despite its compactness, the CX-3 still fits in all the modern essentials including a full 7″ infotainment system, a rotary multi-function command controller located on the center console, Active Driver heads up display, available 7 speaker BOSE sound system, USB media and bluetooth connectivity available in the Touring and Grand Touring model.  Simply put, there is no shortage of tech features.

Performance

Under the hood lies the standard SKYACTIV-G 2.0 L four cylinder engine coupled to a six speed automatic transmission across all trims. The result is a powertrain capable of 146 horsepower and 146 lb.ft of torque. Translating this into road practice shows that the Mazda CX-3 is by no means a performance machine, but it gets the job done. With that said, acceleration is tolerable in most situations, but can definitely be weary with a 5 adult passenger payload. There is not too much excitement going on either in the handling department. Power steering didn’t deliver the precision and road hugging experience found to be more capable in some of its other contenders, but under cornering stress, the CX-3 remained relatively composed with present but manageable body roll.

Standard powertrain configuration comes in forward wheel drive configuration, but the i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system is available for those that require immunity to harsh weather conditions. Fuel efficiency is where the Mazda CX-3 is prized for as a whole with its FWD powertrain configuration achieving 29 mpg city / 34 mpg hwy / 31 mpg combined and the i-ACTIV AWD powertrain achieving 27/32/29.

Final Thoughts

The basic CX-3 GX trim comes with a very generous standard package including 16″ alloy wheels, , power mirrors, cloth seats, a seven-inch MAZDA CONNECT touchscreen infotainment system with voice commands, Bluetooth phone connectivity for phone and audio streaming, a USB input, keyless entry, push-button start, power door locks, a six-speaker audio system and air conditioning, among a long list of other features. All that is priced in at $21,295 equipped with the 6 speed automatic transmission. An extra $2,000 buys you the i-ACTIV AWD system. The next GS trim buys you enlarged 18″ wheels, and comfort amenities including heated front seats, leather/cloth combo seats, heated side mirrors, and blind spot monitoring system for an extra $4,900. Finally, the GT model adds leather and suede leather combination front and rear seats, LED adaptive headlights, navigation and automatic climate control, paddle shifters. and Active Driving heads up display. That package will cost you though. With all said and done, a well-configured GT model will set you back $30,995.

In the end of the day, the Mazda CX-3 fits the bill. There are plenty of quality materials and tech features baked into the CX-3 that surpasses the expectations of the modern automotive era. But given the option between the CX-3 and the larger CX-5, we’re not quite sure why one would opt for a smaller vehicle at a near similar price point. An extra $5,000 will buy you added cargo space and room without sacrificing anything other than requiring a bit more attention while parking. You also get more power and performance as well.  But for those that want to save a bit of cash, prefer a smaller form factor and don’t require too much heavy lifting, fits the bill nicely.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2019 Mazda CX-3
• Model : Mazda CX-3 GT AWD
• Vehicle Type : Crossover
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Powertrain Configuration : AWD
• Engine : SKYACTIV 2.0 L V4
• Transmission : 6 Speed automatic dual clutch transmission

Pros

• Excellent exterior styling
• Quality interior
• Quiet and comfortable interior
• Affordable price tag (for lower models)

Cons

• Lacks acceleration power.  Especially a concern for 5 adult passenger payload
• Higher models can become pricey