2016 Mazda CX-3

When Mazda released news of the newest member to their crossover family, American automotive enthusiasts were excited. Now that the completely new 2016 Mazda CX-3 is here, the public is clamoring to get a closer look. The CX-3 is Mazda’s subcompact crossover, competing with the likes of Nissan’s Juke, and Chevrolet’s Trax. The all-new crossover comes in Mazda’s three trim level options: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. 

The exterior of the brand new 2016 Mazda CX-3 wears the newest version of the automaker’s “Kodo - Soul of Motion” design language, featuring a bold look with sweeping curves. The interior of the CX-3 is laid out for a user-friendly, comfortable driving experience. The 2016 CX-3 is an obvious close relative to the CX-5, but differs in many distinctive ways.

Aside from impressive features, and being semi-comparable to the CX-5, the Mazda CX-3 is setting the safety bar extremely high. Drivers will be happy with the long list of standard and available safety features incorporated into Mazda’s newest crossover. 

Introducing the Beautifully Small Mazda CX-3

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is a small crossover that is making a big first impression. With an edgy exterior front fascia, and sweeping curves to the rear bumper, everything about the CX-3 demands the attention of everyone on the road. Drivers will also appreciate the various trim levels, each offering a different level of luxury standard features. 

The 2016 CX-3 is the fifth vehicle in Mazda’s lineup with a full SkyActiv pedigree - which means a sportier ride, and increased fuel efficiency. All three CX-3 models come equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that achieves 146 horsepower, and 146 lb.-ft. of torque, when paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission.  Grand Touring models up the ante by offering paddle shifters as standard equipment. Drivers who want it all, including the most sporty ride possible, will be pleased with the 2016 CX-3 Grand Touring model.

The interior of the 2016 CX-3 is designed with the active-lifestyle driver in mind, and features a contemporary cabin with a long list of standard features, to help make life a bit easier for its drivers. The base Sport model features the Mazda Connect Infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, multifunction rotary control, and Bluetooth streaming phone/audio. Driver’s who opt for the highest-end model, the Grand Touring, can expect leather/suede upholstery, dual-zone climate control, a power moonroof, Bose audio system, and navigation. 

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 was designed to appeal to young, active drivers, who want the amenities and “feel” of a large SUV, with the sporty, fun performance of a car. 

What Makes the CX-3 Different from the Mazda CX-5

To begin with, the Mazda CX-3, and Mazda CX-5 have similarities, as well as many differences. The two vehicles are obviously close in relation, even sharing the “CX” in their name, which labels each vehicle as a crossover. The Mazda CX-5 replaced the CX-7 and the Mazda Tribute in 2012, and is considerably larger in size than the new CX-3. 

Dimensionally, the CX-3 is 10.4 inches shorter than the CX-5, and stands 2.2 inches lower. Both vehicles share the same 101.2 inch wheelbase. The main difference between the two crossovers lies in the central structure of the CX-3. Composed of 63 percent high-strength steel, the rigid core of the CX-3 anchors its suspension up front, with a new torsion beam rear axle. The overall weight of the CX-3 is twenty percent lighter than the CX-5. 

Where the Mazda CX-5 is slightly larger in size, and named a compact crossover, the CX-3 is classified as a subcompact crossover, and is the automaker’s smallest crossover vehicle. 

Setting the Safety Standard for its Class

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 features eight active safety features as a part of the i-Activsense Package on the Grand Touring model. Check out what features are part of this package, that helps the CX-3 lead its segment in active safety technology.

• Smart Brake Support - This advanced technology helps to minimize or prevent forward collisions when the vehicle is traveling at speeds over ten miles per hour. If the system senses an unavoidable collision, it will automatically apply the brakes.

• Smart City Brake Support - Helps make city driving less stressful. When the CX-3 is traveling at speeds between 2-18 miles per hour, the system will automatically apply the brakes when it sense an unavoidable collision.

• Distance Recognition Support System - By utilizing a radar sensor, this technology will alert the driver through visual and audio warnings, when they are following a vehicle in front them, too closely.

• Adaptive Front Lighting System - Makes driving blindly around corners in the dark, a thing of the past. This system works by moving the vehicle’s headlights with the motion of the steering wheel, to help drivers see around curves, and corners, more easily.

• Blind Spot Monitoring - This technology alerts drivers when another vehicle is in their blind spot, when trying to change lanes. 

• Rear Cross Traffic Alert - By alerting drivers when a vehicle is approaching while they are in reverse, this technology helps to avoid unnecessary collisions.

• All Wheel Drive - Helping drivers navigate all types of road conditions, this system is imperative for those living in a changing climate.

• Rearview Camera - This technology gives the driver a visual of what is behind their vehicle when backing up. 

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is an exciting addition to the Mazda family, and gives drivers a great, stylish option to other vehicles in its segment. Other automotive brands have tried to create a stylish subcompact crossover, but their overall style and aesthetic appeal always seems to fall flat. With the 2016 CX-3, Mazda got it right. The stylish crossover may be small, but it is sure to give tough competition a run for their money. 

Aside from being more stylish than alternatives like the Nissan Juke, or Chevrolet Trax, the Mazda CX-3 is also leading the way for safety innovation in its class. No other vehicle in its segment can say the same, and CX-3 drivers will definitely appreciate the time and effort dedicated to ensuring that the 2016 Mazda CX-3 is safer, and better equipped to handle emergency situations, than any other vehicle in its class.