Used 2020 MAZDA CX-3

#9 in Best Subcompact SUVs of 2020

For 2020, Mazda has simplified the lineup to just one model, the CX-3 Sport, and added greatly to the standard-equipment list. Most notably, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been made standard, as have safety features like automatic emergency braking, active cruise control, lane-departure warning and a blind-spot warning system.

As in 2019, the 2020 Mazda CX-3 remains one of the more enjoyable compact-crossover SUVs to drive, thanks to its good seating position and sporty well-tuned suspension. This is a sporty chassis, and the cabin exudes good quality, if not very much back-seat room.

Competitors are many. They include the Hyundai Kona, Honda HR-V and Subaru Crosstrek, plus other subcompact-crossover SUVs like the Hyundai Venue, Nissan Rogue Sport, Toyota CH-R and, yes, even the new Mazda CX-30.

Given the CX-3’s fun driving dynamics, impressive safety suite and low price of entry, plus its good efficiency and solid resale values, this subcompact Mazda crossover SUV has much in its favor.

RELATED: Best Subcompact SUVs of 2020

With 148 horsepower, the 2020 CX-3 is not exactly a speedy machine, but its well-tuned chassis and satisfying steering make this Mazda a remarkably pleasant daily driver. This is enhanced by the well-timed shifts of the standard 6-speed automatic transmission, a gearbox that profits from Sport and manual modes.

The CX-3, given its compact size, is a handy vehicle in an urban environment. It negotiates busy traffic with ease, and it’s also easy to park. And even though it’s not especially quick, the CX-3 does hit 60 mph more quickly than a Subaru Crosstrek, a Toyota C-HR or a Nissan Kicks, so merging onto freeways in this Mazda is drama-free.

Although technically not an off-roader, the Mazda CX-3, when equipped with all-wheel drive, acquits itself quite well in snowy and muddy conditions.

The 2020 Mazda CX-3 Sport, with its 7-inch-color touch screen and a multifunction controller, looks thoroughly modern inside, but you won’t want to sit in the cramped back seat. Nevertheless, we like the overall interior style of the CX-3. It has an upscale look, and the abundant premium features include an electronic parking brake, a push-button starter and a 6-speaker audio system.

There’s not a lot of cargo room beneath that rear hatch, but here’s a tip: If you keep the split rear seat folded forward all the time, the CX-3 can be used as an all-weather 2-seater with a very generous cargo hold.

With its long nose and sleek cabin, the Mazda CX-3 has a sporty silhouette, and it looks particularly good in the popular Soul Red Crystal Metallic color. We like the black grille and the dual stainless-steel exhaust outlets. The sleek shape, however, has a downside — it compromises function. The result? Tight confines for rear-seat passengers and less cargo space than you get in some of the CX-3’s boxier competitors.

APPLE CARPLAY
Now standard on the Mazda CX-3, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto link your smartphone to your vehicle for fast and familiar infotainment operation. We use CarPlay most often for navigation and to stream our favorite tunes.

LED LIGHTING
Often found in pricier automobiles, LED headlights, taillights and daytime running lights are standard on the 2020 Mazda CX-3. The LED headlights have an auto off/on feature, plus automatic leveling.

The 2020 Mazda CX-3 comes equipped with a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G 4-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with a Sport and manual-shift mode. The Mazda Connect infotainment system, also standard, includes a dash-mounted 7-inch monitor, voice commands and a multifunction dial control that looks straight out of a European luxury car.

Also on the CX-3’s standard-equipment list are active cruise control, LED headlights and taillights, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and automatic climate control, along with Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, push-button start, USB port, tilt/telescope steering wheel, cruise control, power windows/locks and keyless entry.

The most significant option on the 2020 Mazda CX-3 is all-wheel drive. It’s $1,400 well spent, especially if you live in areas with inclement weather.

Mazda’s CX-3 is powered by a direct-injected 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine tuned for maximum fuel efficiency. It’s smooth, and it sends 148 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque to the front or all four wheels (FWD, AWD) via a 6-speed automatic transmission. We prefer the CX-3’s conventional 6-speed automatic over the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) found in some of the CX-3’s competitors.

2.0-liter inline-4
148 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
146 lb-ft of torque @ 2,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 29/34 mpg (FWD), 27/32 mpg (AWD)