2023 mazda cx 3 gt review

Mazda’s fashionable-but-late crack at a ‘compact crossover’ – the jacked-up, bluff-faced supermini idea that’s been a runaway success for the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Vauxhall Mokka. So, it’s far from an original idea then, but there’s plenty of reasons not consequently to write the CX-3 off.

First off, the crucial donor car is a good ’un – the CX-3 borrows the platform, engines and drivetrains from the terrific new Mazda 2 supermini. It’s also a handsome little tyke – much smarter-suited than the polarizing Juke or Ford’s dog-awful Ecosport rival. And in this sector, look count for everything. Big win from the off, Mazda – and the rest of it stands up to scrutiny too...

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Our choice from the range

What's the verdict?

“Interior finish apart, the CX-3 is a winner. Straight to the top of the class.”

The Rivals

The Mazda CX-3 is one of the sportiest small SUVs on sale but its rather cramped back seats and fairly thirsty petrol engines mean it’ll always be a slightly left-field choice.

Buy or lease the Mazda CX-3 at a price you’ll love

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Check out real-world situations relating to the Mazda CX-3 here, particularly what our experts have to say about them.

• Should I buy a Mazda CX-3 or Kona Elite from 2020? Early this year, Hyundai issued a recall for some Konas built between 2020 and 2022 to deal with problems with the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission which could cause a loss of drive and, therefore, a dangerous situation on the road. So the first check would be to see if your car you're looking at is affected by that recall (a Hyundai dealer will be able to tell you by looking up the car's VIN). If the car is one of the affected ones but the recall's fixes have been applied, then you have less to worry about. The Kona's engine problems, meanwhile, were another cause for a safety recall after it was discovered that a batch of Konas had defective piston rings which could cause early engine wear and possibly even a fire. Again, these problems were being fixed by Hyundai, but you need to check whether the example you're looking at buying was one of the affected ones and what's been done about it by the previous owner. The Mazda CX-3 of the same era has not been without its recalls either, including one for a suspension joint that could fail, but overall, the experience of owners suggests the Mazda could be the less risky bet. Again, though, check the service and recall history of any car before handing over the money. Show more Show less
• What are the pros and cons of a 2018 MG ZS? ZS pros include cheap pricing, an easy driving experience and a comparatively spacious interior compared to other direct rivals like a Mazda CX-3. The dash is pleasant, there is a decent amount of equipment and the controls are all simple to use. It should also be fairly inexpensive to run and service, though earlier ZSs like yours require six-monthly rather than 12-monthly service intervals. There are two engine options - a 1.5-litre four-cylinder model with a four-speed auto on the base Excite, or a 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder version on higher-specification Excite Plus and Essence grades with a six-speed auto. Note that the latter powertrain is more expensive to service. Plus, there's still a fair chunk of the manufacturer's warranty left, which is seven years, while capped-price servicing is also offered. But the ZS does not offer AEB Autonomous Emergency Braking, so only rates a four-star ANCAP crash-test rating. Additionally, the ZS's suspension is on the firm side in terms of dealing with road bumps, which might upset some occupants, yet there is not much of the 'fun factor' in regards to steering and handling finesse that rivals like the CX-3, Suzuki Vitara, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Venue, Holden Trax, Ford EcoSport and Hyundai Kona offer in spades. We've also heard complaints about the interior's perceived quality being sub-par, cabin storage isn't generous and Android Auto isn't supported (though Apple CarPlay is). Finally, the ZS' resale value trails all of the aforementioned competitors by a significant margin, meaning it's on track to be worth less when the time comes to on-sell it. Show more Show less
• Which SUV should I buy? I can’t give you a specific answer to which has the lowest cabin noise, except to say that all the leading brands are relatively quiet. I would suggest you test drive each and decide which suits your needs the best. Show more Show less
• Mazda CX-3: Is it a good family car? Without knowing what you mean by casual weekend drives, I will assume they’re not off-road, so either one would be a good choice. Show more Show less

See All Mazda CX-3 Q&As

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

Mazda CX-3 2023 Fuel consumption

Fuel consumption for the 2023 Mazda CX-3 is dependent on the type of engine, transmission, or model chosen. The Mazda CX-3 currently offers fuel consumption from 6.3 to 6.7L/100km. The Mazda CX-3 is available with the following fuel types: ULP and —.

Mazda CX-3 Model Body Type Specs Fuel Consumption Akari (awd) SUV 2.0L,ULP,6 SP AUTO 6.7L/100km Akari (fwd) SUV 2.0L,ULP,6 SP AUTO 6.3L/100km G20 Akari SUV 2.0L,—,6 SP AUTO 6.3L/100km G20 Evolve SUV 2.0L,—,6 SP AUTO 6.3L/100km

* Combined fuel consumption See All Mazda CX-3 2023 Pricing and Specs

Mazda CX-3 2023 Towing capacity

The Mazda CX-3 has maximum towing capacity of 1200kg. Some models also offer heavy-duty or towing option packs which can increase towing capacity, as well as options which can hamper towing capacity. Towing capacities can vary wildly on a large number of factors. These include engine, transmission, model, and options chosen. Always check with the manufacturer or in your vehicles handbook before attempting to tow anything.

Mazda CX-3 Model Body Type Specs Braked Capacity NEO Sport (fwd) SUV 2.0L,ULP,6 SP MAN 1200kg NEO Sport (fwd) SUV 2.0L,ULP,6 SP AUTO 1200kg Maxx Sport (fwd) SUV 2.0L,ULP,6 SP MAN 1200kg G20 Sport SUV 2.0L,—,6 SP AUTO 1200kg

See All Mazda CX-3 2023 Towing Capacity

Mazda CX-3 2023 Wheel size

Wheel size for the 2023 Mazda CX-3 will vary depending on model chosen, although keep in mind that many manufacturers offer alternate wheel sizes as options on many models.The wheel size available will alter the range of tyres available to be fitted.

Is A Mazda CX

Mazda's entry in the mini-utility segment brings agile handling, a solid and substantial feel, and good fuel economy. The ride is firm but does a good job absorbing impacts, although noise levels can be high.

Is Mazda CX

A Mazda CX-3 will cost about $7,172 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular SUV models by $1,961. There is also a 21.93% chance that a CX-3 will require a major repair during that time. This is 0.43% worse than similar vehicles in this segment.

What is the best selling Mazda 2023?

Mazda CX-5 (115,855 units sold)

Is the Mazda CX

The CX-3 is one of the best-handling cars in its class. The steering could do with a bit more feel but it's quick and responsive, which complements the grippy and engaging chassis. While the ride isn't as soft as on rivals such as Citroen's C4 Cactus, the CX-3 is still smooth enough on the motorway.