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The redesign of the 2021 Mazda CX-3 will make the subcompact model more attractive to buyers. The crossover came out in 2015, and ever since its sales are jumping. The mini SUV is especially popular in Europe, where it exploits a diesel engine. Now, it also offers a hybrid drivetrain, but as the CX-30. The different nameplate is not hiding where it has found inspiration. The CX-3 is the first crossover in Mazda’s lineup with such an engine, and the technology should spread on larger CX-5 and CX-9.
The new 2021 Mazda CX-3 will be updated, but the platform remains the same. That means the size of the vehicle will be still under 170 inches. However, the new look is going to sharpen up the appearance and refresh the interior. We need to wait for the end of coronavirus pandemic to see changes under the hood. Novelties will definitely make the CX-3 more interesting. However, the priority market is not the US, where the compact class is dominating. On the other hand, such vehicles are more popular in Europe. Sales in the past few years will tell enough. Mazda sold 55k units last season on the Old Continent, more in other largest markets together.
2021 Mazda CX-3 Engines
The US version of the 2021 Mazda CX-3 is powered by a 2.0-liter engine. It is making 150 hp, which is slightly more than the class average. Still, it won’t help this vehicle to commit more buyers seeking for extra power. On the other hand, it is always good to get a bit more energy on such models. The advantages of the mini crossovers start with the fuel economy. The CX-3 with a 2.0 engine is going to return 31 mpg combined. It is a perfect vehicle for a city ride. 29 mpg is the fuel economy, but let’s not forget the great agility because of its subcompact size. You can park it easily at spots in tight lots.
This is the powertrain for other markets as well. But, buyers in Europe, Asia, and Australia can purchase the subcompact SUV with a diesel unit. SkyActiv technology is making both 1.5 and 1.8 unit cleaner. Still, not green enough for the United States. A lighter configuration is able to produce 105 hp and 200 lb-ft, while the other diesel mill adds 10 hp. Compared to the US model, these two are not mated to an all-wheel drive and a possible transmission is a six-speed manual. Automatic is the only power router for US buyers.
Pros and Cons
The new design will definitely make the 2021 Mazda CX-3 one of the most attractive crossovers in the subcompact tier. Other companies are focusing on bigger vehicles. So, it will be worth of waiting for the CX-3. We already mentioned extra power and exceptional gas mileage of the four-cylinder SkyActiv engine. These units are more efficient, since engineers in the Japanese company are combining technologies, so the petro engine can work as a diesel, but without emitting too many gases. Another advantage is also pointed – the city drive. Well, the interior is pretty elegant. We cannot say comfortable – this is one of the smallest crossovers you will find in the market. But, even the base version is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upper trim levels are offering advanced technologies, which are not going to put passengers at risk by distracting a driver.
We expect the space to be shred, but the Mazda CX-3 is really small, and the upcoming model can hardly fix that without a larger platform. The engine is pretty noisy for its size and it won’t promise you too much fun off the road. We can add the lack of diesel engine and manual transmission to the list of downsides.
CX-30 Hybrid
The all-new CX-30 is riding on the same architecture as its petrol sibling. But, the new model is using a hybrid engine to improve efficiency. It is also slightly larger than its sibling. Combine these elements, and you will get a subcompact crossover that delivers 122 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque, while improving the mileage. This could be the first step towards the complete electrification of the lineup.
In 2015, Mazda left the partnership with Ford and turned to its compatriots – Toyota. These are two leaders in the hybrid market, delivering the most efficient crossovers. So, Mazda could benefit from these joint projects. We hope soon.
2021 Mazda CX-3 Release Date and Prices
The 2021 Mazda CX-3 should come out by the end of the year. The sales will probably start immediately, so the company has time to prepare for the next projects in 2021. The price will go up a bit, but the CX-3 is going to remain one of the most affordable units in the market. The MSRP will start just above $20,000 and the hybrid unit will add about $3,000.
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