2018 Mazda CX-3 Facelift

Published Date: 6th Sep 2018

Mazda have updated the CX-3 with updates to the interior, styling plus revised suspension and engine line-up.

The CX-3 is Mazda’s smart looking, small SUV/Crossover vehicle competing with similar vehicles in a popular class like the Renault Captur, Nissan Juke and Skoda Karoq.

Mazda CX-3 Exterior Styling Updates

From the outside exterior styling changes are subtle with new pillar trims and an updated Grille.
 

Mazda CX-3 Interior Updates

The first thing that jumps out at you in the cabin is the omission of the manual handbrake, Mazda have removed it and updated the vehicle with an electronic parking brake.

The space vacated by the manual handbrake has been replaced with a centre armrest unit with some handy storage and there are also new controls for the updated and improved infotainment system. The new infotainment system is the centre-piece of the updated and ergonomically improved dashboard. 

The front seats benefit from new/improved materials that provide better comfort and lumber support than the outgoing model’s seats.

There are also some more subtle updates inside with new roof lining material and improved insulation for a quieter ride. In the rear of the vehicle passengers get a new centre armrest with cup holders.
 

Mazda CX-3 New Engine Line-up

The CX-3 is the first in it Mazda’s model line-up to get their new 1.8 diesel engine which will replace the 1.5 diesel. This continues Mazda’s trend of using larger engines in its line-up when some rivals are going the other way. Mazda are to keen to point out that their engines benefit from their widely acclaimed SKYACTIV technology which is an advanced combination of efficient engines and a lighter chassis/body (without compromising safety). The new 1.8 Skyactiv-D diesel engine for example offers fuel economy of around 64mpg and emissions of 114g/km whilst offering more power than the outgoing 1.5 engine (around 10bhp more).

The new 1.8 1.8 Skyactiv-D diesel engine should make an appearance in other models in the Mazda line-up in the coming year or two.

The petrol engine line-up remains the same with 119bhp and 148bhp petrol units but they do get a tweak to the pistons and injectors resulting in a little more torque whilst at the same time delivering improving fuel economy. The more powerful petrol has the option of all-wheel drive for more demanding terrain/conditions.
 

Mazda CX-3 Improved Handling

The new CX-3 gets a revised chassis, suspension and new power steering and the quality of ride also benefits a redesigned roll-bar and new dampers.

Order books are open now for the all-new revised Mazda CX-3, if you’re in the market for a small SUV then it should be on your short-list.