Mazda CX-3 2016-2022: what to know before you buy?
Launched in 2016 as a little brother to the popular CX-5, the Mazda CX-3 was a good success in its early years. Alas, it evolved little, not least because the company preferred to focus on the CX-30 from 2020 onwards, so its existence came to an end at the end of the 2022 model year.
But with new vehicle prices having risen dramatically since the pandemic, including in the sub-compact segment, is a used Mazda CX-3 worth the price? Here's what you need to know about it...
An engine named SKYACTIV
Throughout its career, the CX-3 has offered just one engine, which has ended up hurting it in a class where the competition is increasingly fierce. We're talking about a 2.0-liter four-cylinder developing 146 horsepower - a reasonable output for such a small, mostly urban vehicle. All-wheel drive, optional with the base GX and GS versions, was included as standard on the top-of-the-range GT version from 2019.
Unlike the Mazda3, built on the same platform, there was no manual gearbox on the menu, only a six-speed automatic. Average fuel consumption is 7.7 or 8.1 L/100 km, depending on the number of drive wheels, which is relatively low in itself, but doesn't make the CX-3 a champion of fuel efficiency.
In contrast, this Mazda CX-3 pseudo-SUV stands out for its athletic qualities. Its light weight, responsive powertrain, firm handling (at the expense of long-distance comfort) and precise steering translate into a more incisive ride than its rivals. The emphasis on design, however, reduces visibility, and the turning circle is still larger than desired given its dimensions.
Speaking of dimensions, the CX-3 makes good compromises in terms of interior space, both in the second row (except for children) and in the trunk. The latter boasts a volume of just 453 liters, less than that of a Mazda3 Sport hatchback, or 1,529 liters when the bench seat is folded. In short, not a family car. Up front, while most of the controls are intuitive, the infotainment system is clearly not a role model. It's rather slow to react and requires complex manipulations to get what you want. This quickly becomes frustrating, as well as distracting behind the wheel.
Safety is at a premium, but for the ultimate in safety, consider a CX-3 equipped with the i-ACTIVESENSE and Technology packages, the latter incorporating the Traffic Sign Recognition System.
Some years to avoid, others to favor
Starting in 2019, the CX-3 features improved materials and soundproofing, completely redesigned front seats (with optional all-leather seating) and an electronic parking brake that frees up space for console storage. The grille, wheels and taillights have also changed, while the engine has gained two horsepower and benefited from improved chassis settings. Then, for 2022, the equipment was revised one last time.
While the CX-3 is a nice alternative to front-wheel-drive-only SUVs like the Hyundai Venue, Toyota C-HR, Nissan Kicks and Kia Soul, the fact remains that its engine tends to be noisy, and its limited ground clearance sometimes requires extra caution. Not to be forgotten in winter.
Finally, what about reliability? The CX-3's track record isn't too bad... apart from 2016. We must point out the electrical and air-conditioning problems of early-generation models, as well as the transmission, which some owners have had to replace after 100,000 km. The rearview camera has also had its problems. Check which parts have been changed and how well the vehicle has been maintained in the past. Our best advice is to choose a 2019 or newer model, while being wary of brake wear.
On that note, happy shopping!
