2018 Mazda CX-3

Crossover to the sporty side

Looking for a sporty crossover SUV that's fun to drive, easy to park, and fuel-efficient? You want the 2018 Mazda CX-3. The diminutive crossover debuted last year to critical acclaim, and while it might not sport the same interior space as its bigger brother (the Mazda CX-5), the Mazda CX-3 is sure to win you over with its dynamic handling, excellent fuel economy, and all-around high-quality interior. 

Performance

Nestled comfortably beneath the Mazda CX-3’s hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This peppy powertrain can scoot from 0 to 60 mph in just 8.5 seconds, and it produces 146 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a standard six-speed automatic transmission, although all trims are available with all-wheel drive.

Part of what makes the 2018 Mazda CX-3 such a winner is its excellent fuel efficiency, with EPA-estimated fuel economy that sits at 31 mpg combined (29 city/34 highway) with front-wheel drive,* and 29 mpg combined (27 city/32 highway) with the added assurance of all-wheel drive.*

Even more impressive than any fuel economy numbers, though, is the Mazda CX-3’s confidence on the road. Handling is simply superb, with the Mazda CX-3 cutting and carving through turns and traffic with incredible ease. It’s hard to imagine tackling a work commute with any level of enthusiasm, but believe us when we say the Mazda CX-3 manages to evoke that feeling.

Features

The 2018 Mazda CX-3 is a five-passenger subcompact crossover with a starting price of $20,110.** It’s available in three trim levels: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring.

Even at its entry point, the 2018 Mazda CX-3 impresses with its long list of standard features, all of which are sure to impress drivers with budgets both big and small. Standard exterior highlights include 16-inch wheels, automatic headlights, and a rear roof spoiler.

Adding to this robust list of standard features are interior highlights like a push-button ignition; cruise control; and for tech lovers, Bluetooth® audio connectivity, a rearview camera, a six-speaker audio system, and a gorgeous 7-inch touchscreen.

Step up to the Touring trim and things get even better. This trim adds amenities such as heated mirrors, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, keyless ignition/entry, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

The Grand Touring trim really hits a home run in terms of content, adding 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights/foglights, and head-up display. We've already praised the Mazda CX-3's interior, but it's important to mention that the Grand Touring trim blurs the line between mainstream and premium vehicle. We're perfectly fine with that, and we imagine drivers will be too. 

Grand Touring models also boast leather and synthetic suede upholstery, a navigation system, and an upgraded seven-speaker Bose® audio system.

Design

With its long hood and small coupe-like cabin, there is no denying that the 2018 Mazda CX-3 is one smart-looking subcompact crossover. The design is typical Mazda throughout, with highly sculpted fenders and styling language that conveys motion even when at it's standing still.

Inside, the design shows excellent execution. Even in its base form, the Mazda CX-3 boasts high-quality materials and a sleek dashboard. Grand Touring models get a large central tachometer that adds an additional element of sportiness, while the gauges and buttons are easy to use.

Despite being a subcompact crossover, the 2018 Mazda CX-3 delivers outstanding comfort for its segment. Seats are pleasantly firm, and the cabin is surprisingly roomy.

While you’ll find less space than in a traditional crossover SUV, the Mazda CX-3’s modest rear cargo hold is more than enough for trips to the grocery store and weekend getaways.

Safety

Every 2018 Mazda CX-3 comes standard with anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, and a rearview camera. As noted, the Touring adds a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, while the Grand Touring can be equipped with an i-ACTIVSENSE package that includes advanced technologies like a forward collision mitigation system.

Verdict

The 2018 Mazda CX-3 delivers big results despite its diminutive frame. It'll invigorate your commute while providing all the benefits of a traditional crossover. This is one compact crossover you can't afford to pass up. 

For more information about this or any other new model in our inventory, or to schedule your test drive, contact us online or visit Heritage Mazda Bel Air, Catonsville & Towson at 1 Olympic Place Suite 1120, Towson, MD 21204.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions. Use for comparison purposes only.

**MSRP excludes tax, title, license fees and $975 destination charge (Alaska $1,020). Model shown priced higher.

Image Credit: Mazda