Flash Drive

2016 Mazda CX-3

December 29, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 
The all-new 2016 Mazda CX-3 is a nimble compact SUV that's fun to drive on back roads and in the city.
The all-new 2016 Mazda CX-3 is a nimble compact SUV that’s fun to drive on back roads and in the city.

Model Tested: 2016 Mazda CX-3 Touring AWD

Engine: 2.0-liter I-4 gas, 146 horsepower, 146 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 27/City—32/Highway—29/Combined

Base Price: $23,210

As Tested: $26,050

Performance:

Peppy, Skyactiv four-cylinder engine

6-speed automatic with sport mode

All Wheel Drive

Four-wheel disc brakes

Fuel-efficient; we averaged 30.2 mpg

The Mazda CX-3 is notably shorter than the CX-5, especially from the rear view.
The Mazda CX-3 is notably shorter than the CX-5, especially from the rear view.

Short overhangs for agile off-roading

Good ground clearance

OK highway ride, but a little choppy over expansion strips

Hill launch assist

Rear cross traffic alert

Nimble size for city driving/parking

Comfort:

Excellent stretch-out front legroom

Front legroom at expense of second row

Fine second row legroom if fronts are up a ways

Good rear seat shoe room

Lots of wheelwell intrusion for back doors

Medium to small sunroof

Good headroom

Very narrow front row armrest

Thick, contoured steering wheel with tilt/telescopic

The Mazda CX-3 has a spacious front seat and ample rear seat room, too.
The Mazda CX-3 has a spacious front seat and ample rear seat room, too.

Three temps heated front seats

Nice Bose sound system

 

Utility:

Approximately 3-feet of cargo space behind seats

Flat cargo floor

Full-width storage under removable cargo floor

Cargo floor can be left out for added volume

Split folding seats have slight slope

One seatback storage pouch

Medium front door bins

Small rear door bins

No console bin

Big glovebox, but no lock

Two-part sun visors

Blind spot monitor

Heated, power mirrors

Wow Factors:

Styling mimics handsome Mazda CX-5

Cargo space is good with the split rear seats folded.
Cargo space is good with the split rear seats folded.

Nicely integrated Skyactiv functions

Whines:

No center armrest for back seat

No console bin

No preset buttons for radio

Bottom Line:

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is all-new and stands to be a leader in the compact SUV market segment. Styling resembles the larger CX-5. Versatile seating adjustments allow ample room for four adults. Cargo space is good with the second row folded. The excellent Skyactiv features provide a good mix of performance and fuel economy.