Comparing from our recent test drive with the 2021 Mazda 3, the 2021 Mazda CX-3 offers subtle differences that places it between the Mazda 3 and the CX-30. The CX-3 sits slightly higher, making it more suitable for SUV practicalities, and the interior cabin gets upscaled treatments similar to the Mazda 3. A standard 146 horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.0 engine is the only engine configuration available and while it doesn’t offer the peppy acceleration that the lower ground-hugging Mazda 3 has to offer with the more powerful 2.5L engine, it will still come standard with G-Vector control which promises improvements for better cornering and handling.
No changes have been made this year versus last for the 2021 Mazda CX-3. It is still offered in three trims – the GX, GS and GT. The entry level GX trim will come with optional 6-speed manual or automatic transmission in front-wheel drive only while the GS and GT trims receive upgradeable configurations to all-wheel drive. GS trims receive leatherette upholstery, Rich Tan Grand Luxe Suede on the door trim and side-panels with gloss black exterior mirrors and front grille finishing. The GT trim adds navigation, safety tech including rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control and a BOSE premium audio surround sound system.
Compared with the more basic CX-30 the CX-3 is offered with similar upscaled treatments to the Mazda 3 with leatherette seats and Rich Tan Grand Luxe Suede on the door trim and side-panels. Front seating position is low and offers more of a rally race-car type ergonomics, but good visibility is still well maintained.
While the 2021 Mazda CX-3 offers good headroom, the cargo space falls a bit short amongst its competitors with the rear seats. Still, the 60/40 rear folding seats offer additional cargo space when needed.
A 7” infotainment display handles all smartphone and multi-media access control. It’s not as slick as the latest and greatest Mazda Connect software running on an 8.0” display, but all the functionalities are there with only a slight dated look and feel to the Graphical User Interface system. The BOSE premium sound system included in our GT tester model offers an excellent audio experience as well.
Powering the 2021 CX-3 is Mazda’s smaller naturally aspirated 2.0L Skyactiv engine producing 146 horsepower and 146 lb.ft of torque. Despite the lower power ratings, the engine enjoys keeping its revs up helping deliver that driving enthusiasm for which Mazda vehicles are known. Front-wheel drive configurations available in the GX and GS trims are offered with an engaging 6-speed manual transmission while the all-wheel drive option will be equipped with a 6-speed automatic. It is worthy to note that the 6-speed manual transmission gets a slightly diminished fuel ratings of 8.8L/100km whereas the 6-speed automatic gets 8.3L/100km while the all-wheel drive scores in the middle at 8.6L/100km.
Standard across all trims in the CX-3 lineup is G-Vector Control, which delivers added torque to the outside rear wheels by applying braking force on the inner wheels through its ABS system.
The 2021 Mazda CX-3 rightfully fills the gap offering buyers a good entry into the SUV segment with good interior quality treatments and driving enthusiasm. All-wheel drive is preferred for better traction in slippery and wet conditions but may be a concern with the limited 146 horsepower output from the 2.0L Skyactiv engine.
Nevertheless, the entry price point starting at just $21,600 for the base GX trim configured with a 6-speed automatic transmission makes for an attractive choice for young couples and families starting out. Our tester GT trim came fully equipped with i-Activ all-wheel drive, larger 18” wheels Bose premium sound system safety tech and navigation and was priced at $31,100.
