Mazda CX-3

I bought over a 2nd hand 2.0 CX-3 deluxe that launched in 2018. Only a week with the car, I would really have to say that the acceleration is quick enough for me (spirited drive) given that my former car was an old 1.5 Honda city. The car does not feel underpowered for me. It is quick with good responsive steering. As my son is only in primary two now, I don't need much rear legroom. I'm at 1.78m and at my driver's seating, I am still able to sit at the back although seat is almost touching my knees. Boot is small but manageable since I don't carry much stuff. Technology such as auto park, hold, cruise control and LED lights and the best part is very dated to me. Best part is that the bose speakers are fantastic. So I'm really happy with this car. Although I have considered other Korean brands that are spacious with dated tech, but I don't think 1.6cc is sufficient for me given the specs and weight.

I've owned the Mazda CX-3 Deluxe for about a year now. I was previously driving the Mazda RX-8 and bought into the trend of owning an SUV. At the time, I test drove the new Mazda 3 and the Mazda CX-3. Even though the new Mazda 3 is undeniably good-looking and well put together, what it ultimately boiled down to for me was that the Mazda CX-3 felt more powerful due to its 2L NA engine - overtaking is never an issue. Further, I didn't need such a large car and it suits my needs perfectly. Overall, it's a great vehicle for city-driving.

Time for a brief first hand review.

For the first 10,000km of mileage.

Been driving a mixed of MIJ/ MIK sedans & SUVs for the past two decades.

However the 2019 CX-3 is definitely a tad different from the rest of its class.

It's not exactly a huge rough-it-out SUV or cute nippy quickly Hatch.

CX-3 is a CUV as in "Cross-Over-Utility-Vehicle".

And that's the way Mazda design it to be since its first version launched in 2016.

Great handling, good NVH. Sufficient space inside. Small but just ample for 1.7m and below. 3 adults in rear will be a squeeze. Smooth and effortless acceleration.

Was impressed that they fitted a 2L engine on a sub-compact SUV, which provide an excellent city drive. Mazda has tried to bring down the price of the car through the standard variant, ensuring that the car still drives as well but without the additional features. Definitely a competitor to challenge the Vesels and Qashqais in this car segment. However this car will not be recommended for bigger families as the car frame is relatively small.

A previous owner of CX-3 1.5 diesel (brought in by PI), I went to Eurokars to test the new CX-3. I was impressed by the design language of the CX-3. The CX-3 seemed to have "Grown up" From the previous generation. It looks much bigger on the exterior. However, i was slightly dismayed when i checked out the rear seats. It was still cramped.

The cockpit of the CX3 is simple and clear, no fancy technology, a digital speedometer with analog tachometer. Saw a simple description of automatic braking system in the brochure, it is not highlighted by the specification or salesman during the test drive. Hence, not sure if it is available.

The CX3 back passenger seat is small. The height and foot space is okay for my height of 1.75m, just that it will be uncomfortable if you want to fit 3 fit man behind.

The CX3 boot space was a shock, it is smaller than the boot space of Mazda 3 and 3 HB. It seem like the CX3 will only fit 2 large luggage if the boot cover is removed and the luggage are placed in standing position.

Test drive the CX3 to have a feel of a 2 litre engine. Engine is smooth and quiet below 2000rpm. Quick and responsive acceleration when push to about 3000 to 4000rpm and engine noise is audible, but not irritating.