2016 Mazda CX-3: An All New Compact Crossover

Mazda has unwrapped an all new Compact Crossover for 2016, the CX-3.

This will be the fifth model in the line-up to incorporate all of Mazda’s Skyactive technologies.

The CX-3 was designed following Mazda’s KODO, design philosophy- Soul of Motion.

It is hoped the new model will cater to all the essentials people look for in a new vehicle; quality and style, a well thought out and easy to use package, and the responsive driving feel Mazda tries so hard to convince us is in every one of it vehicles.

There will be one powertrain for North America, the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L gasoline engine. The standard transmission is a 6-speed automatic.

When mated to Mazda’s new-generation AWD system, it should be more than adequate to meet the all weather needs found throughout the continent.

To ensure the customer has a pleasurable drive, the model also offers a wide range of Mazda’s latest technologies, including the Mazda Connect infotainment system and i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety features.

In trying to describe the look of the CX-3, Mazda continually used words like beauty, sophistication and radical, all throughout the press release.

It is certainly striking, and will no doubt turn heads when it first arrives on streets, but I will stop well short of calling it the embodiment of vehicular beauty.

The narrow front end gives a sporty feel, and the lines around the whole vehicle do blend nicely.

While this vehicle is small, its design should allow for easy entry and egress, as well as provide an unencumbered view from the drivers seat.

The 168.3 inch over all length, promises to make the CX-3 a nimble city run about, easy to park and maneuver.

The cockpit was designed in such a way as to enable the driver to keep their eyes on the road. It incorporates the latest Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for hands free use of ones phone, and texting.

The Active Driving Display,  features a 7 inch screen which can provide information the driver requires. The devices for controlling the display are  positioned for safety.

True to form, Mazda has refined the chassis, steering and brakes, to provide confidence and feed back.

The use of light weight torsion beam rear suspension, which features compact size and efficient damping front and rear, should deliver a comfortable ride.

The steering system provides a light and agile feel in the city without sacrificing stability on the open road.

The Skyactive-Body architecture makes use of high tensile steel at varying points through out, to provide a lightweight body that is rigid and strong.

This new contender in the compact cross over competition offers a lot in a small package.

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 will hopefully put some fun into an otherwise dull segment.



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Author Profile: Consumer Expert Robert Nichols

Robert is a lifelong car nut. He works as a Technician with 16 years experience and has multiple trade licenses. Having worked on vehicles ranging from Porsche's, fire trucks, trains, and industrial/mining equipment, he has a varied and broad knowledge base to draw on. But his favorite thing to do is drive, be it on two or four wheels.

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