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Mazda CX-3 1.5 SE-L Nav review: super supermini SUV

Mazda CX 3 1.5 SE L
Mazda enter the fray into an already crowded small crossover market

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30 June 2015

What is it?

MAZDA’S new small Crossover SUV rival for the Ford Ecosport, KIA Sportage, MINI Countryman, Nissan Juke, Peugeot 2008 and Renault Captur. Based on the underpinnings of the Mazda2 supermini, the CX-3 is 215mm longer, 70mm wider and is a little bit taller.

The Mazda CX-3 is available with 118 and 148bhp SKYACTIV-G petrol engines or the 103bhp, SKYACTIV-D diesel review car driven here.

What’s hot?

  • The Mazda CX-3, like the Mazda2 before it, is a bit of a looker, with the latest version of Mazda’s ‘KODO’ design theme. Highlights include the coupe-like roofline, slashed flanks, plus the latest family face with its chrome edged grille and distinctive front lights.
  • The interior design of the Mazda CX-3 is identical to the Mazda2; this is a good thing as it equals a dashboard that’s pleasingly uncluttered by buttons and dominated in the Nav model we’re driving here, by the seven-inch touch screen display, controlling features such as the Sat-Nav.
  • The 103bhp 1.5-litre SKYACTIV D diesel engine is surprisingly revvy, generally refined, has progressive power delivery and despite the taller stance, the MazdaCX-3 is still capable of an impressive 70.6mpg.
  • Like the Mazda2 before it, the CX-3 has a fine gearchange. Best described as slick and sporty, it has an impressively short throw. Acceleration to 62mph is dispatched in 10.1 seconds, while the top speed is 110mph.
  • The CX-3 is taller than the Mazda2, but still feels surprisingly sporty to drive, with precise steering and body roll kept well under control in corners.
  • Mazda has stretched the Mazda2’s wheelbase by 215mm and the result is impressive rear legroom. The deep 350-litre boot is competitive when compared to rivals and can be increased to 1,260 litres with the rear seat folded down.
  • The 105g/km CO2 emissions and 70.6mpg consumption are almost class-leading and equal a 22% company car tax band for 2014
  • Standard equipment is generous; our SE-L Nav review model included rear parking sensors, heated front seats, climate control and rear privacy glass.
  • On top of all the CX3’s standard equipment, it has plenty of useful safety kit including a lane departure warning system, Smart City Brake Support that will reduce insurance premiums, plus rain-sensing front wipers and dusk sensing headlights

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