Used 2016 MAZDA CX-3

Designed to tap into the trend to small crossover SUVs that is building into a tidal wave, the all-new 2016 Mazda CX-3 is a stylish 5-door based on a platform shared with the upcoming next-generation Mazda2. Available in three trim levels each offering front-drive or all-wheel drive (FWD, AWD), the CX-3 utilizes the suite of Skyactiv technologies for across-the-line fuel efficiency that can rival that of expensive hybrids. Its competitiveness in a crowded segment is fortified by premium-level controls and Mazda’s sophisticated i-Activsense driver assist and safety features. Those features plus its attractive "Kodo – Soul of Motion" design are its secret weapons in its battle against rivals like the Kia Soul, Nissan Juke, Buick Encore, Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Fiat 500X and Chevrolet Trax.

While far from the most powerful vehicle in the subcompact SUV segment, the Mazda CX-3 vies with the Nissan Juke as the most fun-to-drive. That said, the CX-3’s fun-to-drive comes in a completely different way. While the fast-and-frenetic Juke is as subtle as a ballpeen hammer, the CX-3 seems very adept at carving through corners and slicing through traffic. With a stiff body structure, precise steering and a real multi-gear automatic transmission versus a CVT, the CX-3 delivers sophisticated performance reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz GLA. The 146-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine doesn’t sound especially impressive, but its fat torque curve aptly paired with its 6-speed automatic transmission enables drivers to get more twist-carving enjoyment than you might expect. In this continuously variable (transmission) era, we applaud the CX-3’s automatic for its Sport mode with rev matching on downshifts and its available (GT model) paddle shifters that actually (!) change gears.

The base Sport trim offers a monotone black cloth interior that is good-looking; the Touring ups the ante to available Leatherette, and the top-of-the-line Grand Touring offers leather/Lux Suede seats with second-color piping. The GT also uses a soft material on the hood over the top of the gauges complete with a stitch-like finish. The gauges are housed in a well-defined nacelle, and information displays (including a standard 7-inch screen) and control systems are positioned in toward the driver in what Mazda calls its “Head-up Cockpit” concept. Mazda Connect features SMS text message audio delivery and reply, voice command and Aha/Stitcher/Pandora/HD Radio connectivity.

According to Mazda designer Ken Saward, the goal of the CX-3’s exterior is to be a car that is “genuinely beautiful while practical.” This led to a small coupe-like cabin and a long hood. The CX-3 is tall for its overall length, but it is definitely not a miniature CX-5. With its compact 168.3-in. overall length and 60.7-in. height, the CX-3 could pass for a Mazda3 5-door hatchback, though it is three inches taller. While many SUVs are slab-sided, the CX-3 offers highly sculpted fenders and doors that convey movement. The price is less interior and cargo space.

UPSCALE FEATURES GALORE
While many vehicles in the segment offer low-line models that are not especially well-equipped, every CX-3 features a push-button starter and Mazda Connect infotainment offering Bluetooth phone pairing, audio streaming, USB ports for phone charging and entertainment connectivity – all controlled by a knob on the console.

STYLE BEYOND ITS PRICE
Drawing on Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy, the CX-3 exterior is the most visually appealing and sophisticated in its segment with a long hood, short overhangs and available LED accents, while the interior could easily grace a luxury-brand vehicle.

The CX-3 Sport (base model) is nicely equipped with 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine, 6-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift Sport mode, attractive cloth seats and a 60/40-split-folding rear bench seat. Also on the list is Mazda Connect infotainment complete with a 7-inch monitor, rearview camera, voice command and multi-function commander control that is reminiscent of controls in upscale European cars. Bluetooth hands-free phone pairing and audio streaming, push-button start, AM/FM/CD player, USB input, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows and door locks and keyless entry round out an inclusive standards list.

The CX-3 Touring adds a 6-speaker audio system, heated exterior mirrors, moonroof, mirror-mounted turn-signal lights and center armrest. Leatherette seats are available, as are 7-speaker premium BOSE audio, power glass moonroof, SiriusXM/HD Radio, heated seats and cargo cover. The top-o-line Grand Touring features 18-inch alloy wheels, power moonroof, leather/Lux Suede seats, and LED headlights, fog lights and daytime running lights. Plus navigation, BOSE premium audio, automatic climate control, Active Driving Display, paddle shifters, driver- and front-passenger seat heaters and rear cargo cover. The GT i-Activsense package includes Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Smart Brake Support and much more.

The headline for the standard (and lone) engine in the CX-3 is its heady 13.0:1 compression ratio. Unlike the hot-rod days of yore when big compression ratios were used to produce more horsepower, these days the Skyactiv Mazda 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine uses it to wring out excellent fuel economy. That’s good news, and the fact that the engine is backed by a real, live gear-changing automatic transmission is the even better news. The 6-speed auto, which in the GT is affixed with paddle shifters, does a nice job of channeling the power to the ground and contributes to the CX-3’s praiseworthy mileage figures.

2.0-liter inline-4
146 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
146 lb-ft of torque @ 2,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 29/35 mpg (FWD), 27/32 mpg (AWD)