The Mazda CX-3 has been facelifted and updated, seemingly for the last time in this model’s product cycle. Also introduced to the line-up is a flagship 2.0 Hikari derivative, which is the subject of this review. Is the CX-3 still a leading small crossover/compact family car, or has the segment moved on? Let’s find out.
Eyeing out the Mazda CX-3? This review will help you make an informed buying decision!
We like: Still an attractive car, engaging to drive, good safety and convenience features
We don’t like: Impractical small load bay, starting to feel its age, expensive
Fast Facts
- Model Tested: Mazda CX-3 2.0 Hikari
- Price: R509 300 (May 2022)
- Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol
- Power/Torque: 115 kW/206 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Fuel Consumption: 6.7 L/100km (Claimed)
- Acceleration 0-100 kph: 9.5 seconds (Claimed)
- Load Capacity: 264–1 260 litres
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Where does it fit in?
Although the Mazda CX-3 has been on the market for 7 years, its exterior design is still very attractive.
Mazda appears to be evolving into an “SUV brand” quite quickly. While the Japanese firm rolls out a slew of new CX models, it’s worth revisiting the entry-point to its crossover range – the CX-3. Market trends suggest customers are foregoing B- and C-segment hatches in favour of their high-riding siblings, which is why the Mazda2 and Mazda3 are sadly falling by the wayside; you’ll now find those models’ customers in the CX-3 or CX-30.
The CX-3 has been around for a while (this author was present at the model’s introduction in November 2015), but, like most of Mazda’s products, the compact family car’s product cycle has been extended through the introduction of numerous update programmes over the years.
The most recent upgrade included a bigger infotainment screen (from 7- to 8-inch), rear seatbelt warnings, as well as a wireless charging pad. As for the flagship Hikari derivative, it now comes with a comprehensive array of advanced safety tech, but more about that later.
At this lofty price point (just north of R500k – in May 2022), there’s a tremendous variety of models to choose from. The Korean brigade is well represented with Hyundai offering the Venue, Kona and Creta, while Kia offers the Sonet and Seltos. Volkswagen’s line-up will soon comprise the T-Cross, Taigo and T-Roc. You could also consider the cool Opel Mokka.
Of course, you’d be foolish to forget about the very keenly priced Haval Jolion and H6, plus the latest Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Tiggo 7 Pro appear to offer commendable value. Interestingly, for the price of this flagship CX-3 (R509 000), you could also get into a newer, more spacious CX-30…
Compare the Mazda CX-3 to the Volkswagen T-Cross and Kia Seltos here.
How the Mazda CX-3 performs in terms of…
Kerb Appeal
The top-of-the-range 2.0 Hikari derivative features adaptive LED headlamps as standard.
Like so many of Mazda’s models, the CX-3’s design has dated remarkably well – it still looks reasonably fresh, but we feel it needs the right – preferably metallic – exterior finish to “pop”. We’d recommend Soul Red (in which the test unit was finished); it’s simply sensational.
Compared with some newer rivals, the CX-3 wasn’t styled to resemble a shrunken SUV – it presents as a “hatchback on stilts”, which, given its 155-mm ground clearance, is what it is.
In Hikari trim, you get quite a few extras that distinguish your top-rung CX-3 from its lesser siblings. These include eye-catching 18-inch alloy wheels and adaptive LED headlamps.
From a packaging point of view, the CX-3’s 246-litre load bay is its biggest drawback.
Interior features and Practicality
Mazda doesn’t skimp in terms of standard features. Even the entry-level Active comes equipped with niceties such as cruise control, electric parking brake, push-button start, USB ports and so forth.
The CX-3’s instrumentation and fascia layout betray the model’s advanced years, yet the build quality is still top-notch.
In flagship 2.0 Hikari guise, however, it’s easier to mention what features are left out than which ones are fitted, but we’ll list the most major standard features here: leather trim, sunroof, head-up display, 7-speaker Bose audio system (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible with two USB ports), reverse-view camera, as well as front/rear parking sensors.
Meanwhile, the comprehensive safety package includes (but is not limited to) blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning and smart city brake.
The 2.0 Hikari derivative is pricey (at R509 000 – in May 2022), but its advanced safety equipment set it apart.
At low speeds (between 4 and 30 kph), the latter can detect a risk of collision, warn the driver and prepare the braking system to deliver maximum stopping power when the driver brakes.
If the driver does not take evasive action, smart city brake simultaneously applies braking effort and reduces engine output to avoid a collision – or reduce the severity of an impact.
Rear legroom is tight, it’s only acceptable if the rear occupants are small children.
As far as practicality in concerned, the CX-3 is one of the smaller models in its segment and it shows in the snug interior packaging. The load bay has a claimed capacity of just 264 litres (although you can fold the rear seatback down) and it won’t hold a family-sized cooler box on account of its low height. And, unless you’re transporting children, rear legroom is limited.
Performance and Efficiency
As with other petrol-engined Mazda products on the local market, the CX-3 utilises a direct injection naturally aspirated (non-turbocharged) 4-cylinder engine. The Hikari derivative’s 2.0-litre unit produces peak outputs of 115 kW and 206 Nm, which seem reasonably potent. Power is directed to the model’s front wheels via a 6-speed torque-converter automatic ‘box.
In the past, a 2.0-litre engine would have given a small crossover a clear advantage; in the age of turbocharging, it no longer does.
Now, while the CX-3’s proven engine/transmission combination is likely to prove very reliable, its performance is rather… workmanlike. Perhaps we’ve become accustomed to the low-end urge of turbocharged motors, but the less powerful 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol in the Opel Mokka, for example, feels way more energetic – plus it offers a bit more torque. In fact, almost all the Mazda’s segment rivals feel a bit more engaging and punchier to drive.
The engine tends to get quite vocal as it reaches the upper end of its rev range… and it’s not a pleasant noise. It makes the CX-3 sound as if it’s struggling, even though it’s not lethargic. Mazda says it’ll hit 100 kph from standstill in just under 10 seconds, which is about on par for this segment.
The CX-3’s torque-converter-type automatic transmission shifts slickly, but if you want more performance from the Mazda’s drivetrain, don’t expect eager responses.
To the 2.0 Hikari’s credit, however, the test unit indicated an average fuel consumption of 7.4 L/100 km, which, if not highly frugal, compared well with the claimed figure (6.7 L/100 km).
Handling Ability and Ride Quality
It’s a pity that a product that is as sporty-looking as the CX-3 doesn’t have a more engaging drivetrain. Granted, compact family cars are usually unexciting to drive, but considering Mazda’s long-held brand philosophy (to build fun-to-drive cars), it’s a bit of a letdown.
If you want more driver engagement, you can utilise the steering wheel-mounted paddles to actuate manual gear shifts.
The 2.0 Hikari does redeem itself in the steering-, handling- and ride quality stakes, however. It tips the scales at just under 1 300 kg and feels sufficiently planted and wieldy. Like all of Mazda’s passenger cars, the steering setup is admirable – drivers are likely to appreciate the light and direct feel. There are gearshift paddles located on the ‘wheel, which are nice to use.
The ride quality is fair too. Despite the fitment of sporty 18-inch wheels, the suspension strikes a good balance between sportiness and ride comfort (the profiles of 215/50 R18 tyres aren’t too low – which means that their sidewalls offer a little more absorbency, or “give”, when traversing potholes). Therefore, those who will use the Mazda on the daily commute (the overwhelming majority of owners, we suspect) will find it adequately refined and forgivingly damped.
The top-of-the-range Mazda CX-3 comes fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels shod with .
Price and after-sales support
Prices of the Mazda CX-3 derivatives start from R373 400 and go up to R509 300, for this flagship 2.0 Hikari derivative. The vehicle is sold with a 3-year/unlimited km warranty and a 3-year/unlimited km service plan.
See specification details of the Mazda CX-3 range here
Buy a used Mazda CX-3 on Cars.co.za
Verdict
The flagship Mazda CX-3 has its merits, but it competes with its newer, roomier CX-30 sibling on price.
The CX-3 has had a good run over the past 7 years; we’ve tested it on a few occasions and know of several owners who adore the compact family Mazda (despite its known practical shortcomings). It’s interesting to note that the model has been discontinued in Europe and the ‘States; rumours abound that an all-new 2nd-gen model will be unveiled later this year.
Compared to the market it entered in 2015, the CX-3 now competes with a glut of smartly packaged small crossovers, many of which are laced with features and attractively priced.
While the Mazda’s 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine is old-school, it’s not a deal-breaker, but the limited luggage space and lofty asking price of the 2.0 Hikari (R509 000 – in May 2022) are drawbacks, considering what else is on the market. This derivative’s added safety features are nice-to-haves in this segment, but buyers are looking for value first and foremost.
The CX-3 is simply too small and too expensive to best the current crop of fashionable and turbocharged compact family cars. If you can get an excellent deal on a demo unit, it’s worth a look, but, the newer and bigger CX-30 just makes far more sense at a similar price point. Also, consider one of the many models featured in the 2022 Crossovers Buyer’s Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mazda CX-3 still sold new in South Africa?
The Mazda CX-3 was officially discontinued in South Africa in the first quarter of 2024. While it may still be available as a new vehicle on some dealership floors until stock is sold out, it is primarily available on the used car market.
What engine was used in the Mazda CX-3 in South Africa?
The Mazda CX-3 in South Africa was powered by a 2.0-litre, naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G petrol engine. It produced 115 kW of power and 206 Nm of torque, and was available with both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission.
What are the key features of the Mazda CX-3’s interior?
The Mazda CX-3 was known for its stylish and well-built interior. Key features included a MZD Connect infotainment system with a rotary dial controller, a head-up display on higher-end models, and high-quality materials, giving it an upmarket feel.
What are the main competitors of the Mazda CX-3?
The Mazda CX-3 competed in the compact crossover segment against rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Toyota C-HR, and Volkswagen T-Cross. It was praised for its sharp handling and premium design.
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