Mazda’s best-selling light SUV is about to broaden its appeal with a comprehensive update that introduces new safety features, equipment enhancements and signature Mazda technology to the entire CX-3 model range.
For 2023, the line-up will comprise the entry-level Sport, Pure, Evolve, Touring SP and range-topping Akari grades. Pricing ranges from $26,800 for the Sport to $38,620 for the flagship Akari – both plus on-roads.
The latest update offers an exclusively front-wheel drive line-up, all powered by the 4-cylinder Skyactiv-G (G20) petrol engine, and paired with Mazda’s own Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission.
Replacing the Neo Sport trim, the new Sport specification adds a generous array of standard equipment over and above its forebear, including 16-inch alloy wheels, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
Wireless Apple CarPlay is also added as standard across the range, along with wired Android Auto, auto-folding power mirrors and remote window control. The Pure, which replaces the Maxx Sport, adds LED lights front and rear.
It also grabs daytime running lights with high beam control, lane departure warning and driver attention alert, as well as a head-up display. The generously equipped Evolve grade (superseding the Maxx Sport LE) represents the mid-point of the model range.
It adds 18-inch machined alloy wheels and front parking sensors. White leatherette and tan suede upholstery adds unique character to the Evolve’s interior. The CX-3 Touring SP (previously sTouring) introduces sportier styling with 18-inch black machined alloy wheels.
A black painted roof, and black leather and Grand Luxe suede interior, with blue highlights also features, along with a black chrome signature wing and gloss black front grille. Inside, the front seats offer two-position memory function for the driver.
That seat also features 10-way power adjustment (again, for the driver) and heating across both, while radar cruise control with stop/go is added to the existing advanced keyless entry and traffic sign recognition features.
At the very top of the range is the Mazda CX-3 Akari, which gains further luxury with immersive Bose premium audio, featuring seven speakers, and 18-inch black machined alloy wheels.
There’s also a power sliding glass sunroof, 360-degree camera and adaptive LED head lights. An attractive new Aero Grey paint hue also joins six other colours in a palette that can be specified regardless of grade.
The balance includes Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Machine Grey Metallic, Polymetal Grey Metallic, Platinum Quartz Metallic, Jet Black Mica and Snowflake White Pearl Mica. On the Touring SP, a contrasting black roof is offered with four colours.
These include Aero Grey, Platinum Quartz Metallic, Polymetal Grey Metallic or Soul Red Crystal Metallic. The updated Mazda CX-3 will go on sale in September 2023. If you’re keen on one and need finance, talk to CreditOne.
