The 2016 Mazda CX-3 proves it can be OK to have less of a good thing. The smallest crossover in the Mazda line, the vehicle sticks to the automaker’s now well-established blueprint of sharp looks intersecting with strong fuel economy and a fun driving experience.
During a week-long test drive, it didn’t take long to figure out that the CX-3 fits in snugly in front of the larger CX-5 and the top of the line, max passenger sized CX-9.
It’s not difficult to see Mazda’s strategy in introducing the CX-3. First of all, they killed off the CX-7 a couple years ago. At that time, Mazda offered essentially three mid-sized crossovers — with the CX-9 knocking on the door of the SUV class. That was a business plan headed in the wrong direction because, while sales numbers show crossovers as the hottest selling class in automotive, trends show buyers favor smaller crossovers.
So, Mazda scrapped the middle of their midsize lineup and added a CX-3 – basically a smaller version of the CX-5. They call it a “subcompact crossover,” and it’s clearly intended for the urban driver with a need to carry a couple passenger and their kit. The CX-3 is a more convenient size for maneuvering in urban traffic and less of a hassle to park amidst competition.
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This subcompact crossover comes with a tiny-ish price to match, considering you can pick it up starting under 20 large. With an opening MSRP of $19,960 for the introductory Sport trim level, the price-point climbs gradually through the Sport AWD, Touring, Touring AWD and Grand Touring Editions – topping out at a still reasonable $24,990.
The CX-3 employs a 2.0 liter, 146 horsepower, in-line four cylinder engine. Mazda prides itself on squeezing the maximum MPG our of its gas engines, and the CX-3 promises to pull out 29 in the city, 35 highway. You can expect to see a SKYACTIV version of the car that will bump those numbers even higher not too far down the road, though that’s not officially announced yet.
While Mazda does offer all-wheel-drive options for this small crossover, it’s not to be confused with an off-roader. That AWD will help the machine navigate in bad weather and master different pavement and ground conditions, but its four-wheel independent suspension is built for urban use.
Also, to keep the MPG up, Mazda must keep the weight down. Adding structural stiffening and off-road tuning packs on the pounds. As built for city use, the CX-3’s curb weight is only 2,809 lb.
In keeping with the primary philosophy behind all Mazda vehicles, the CX-3 is tight, light and fun to drive. It’s not a performance vehicle by any means, and it’s not intended to be. But, Mazda doesn’t build a vehicle that doesn’t make the experience of being behind the wheel enjoyable. This little crossover fits right in with its bigger Japanese sisters.
If the analysis is correct and smaller crossovers is a segment set to explode, the 2016 Mazda CX-3 should prove another strong contender for Japan’s little automaker that could and can and is.
