2016 Mazda CX-3
One Stylish Crossover Vehicle
Until recently, purchasing a crossover SUV meant driving around in a vehicle that was bulky, largely inefficient, and not very fun to drive. If you valued thrilling driving dynamics you were out of luck. If you sought relief at the pump you were out of luck. And if you didn’t want to park a big bulky bruiser every time you drove, well, you were out luck.
Enter the 2016 Mazda CX-3. This svelte subcompact crossover delivers virtually all the benefits of crossover SUV but without many of disadvantages commonly associated with the segment. It’s a new take on the crossover segment, and one we think deserves your attention.
Powertrains and Performance
Nestled comfortably beneath the Mazda CX-3’s hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This peppy powertrain can scoot from 0-60 mph in just 8.5 second, and 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 2016 Mazda CX-3 such a winner is its excellent fuel economy. EPA-estimated fuel economy sits at 31 mpg combined (29 city/ 35 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 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 CX-3 manages to provide that feeling.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is a five-passenger subcompact crossover with a starting price of $21,210.** It’s available in three trim levels: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring.
Even at its entry point the 2016 Mazda CX-3 delivers a generous amount of content, which is sure to impress drivers with budgets both big and small. Standard exterior features include 16-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, and a rear roof spoiler.
Adding to this robust list of standard features are interior highlights such as push-button ignition, cruise control, and for tech lovers, Bluetooth® audio connectivity, a rearview camera, a six-speaker audio system, and a gorgeous seven-inch touchscreen.
Step up to the Touring trim and things get even fancier. This trim amenities such as heated mirrors, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alter, 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, so you can really feel like you’re driving a car from the future. 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 2016 Mazda CX-3 is one smart-looking subcompact crossover. The design is typical Mazda throughout, with its highly sculpted fenders and styling language that conveys motion even when fully stopped.
Inside, the designs shows excellent execution once again. 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 look and are easy to use.
Despite being a subcompact crossover, the 2016 CX-3 delivers outstanding comfort for its segment. Seats are pleasantly firm and the cabin is surprisingly room.
While you’ll find less space than a traditional crossover SUV, the CX-3’s modest rear cargo gold is more than enough for trips to the grocery store and weekend getaways.
Safety
Every 2016 Mazda CX-3 comes standard with antilock 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-ACTIVESENSE package that includes advanced technologies like a forward collision mitigation system.
Bottom Line
Fun, functional, and with dynamite looks, the 2016 Mazda CX-3 delivers big despite its diminutive frame. It’s a whole new spin on the crossover SUV segment, and one we anticipate seeing a lot more of once drivers get behind the wheel.
For more information, 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.
**Starting at $19,960 MSRP plus $880 destination (Alaska $925) for 2016 Mazda CX-3 Sport FWD. Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD model shown, $26,240 MSRP plus $880 destination (Alaska $925). MSRP excludes taxes, title and license fees.
Image: Mazda