The Mazda CX-3 is based on the Mazda2 platform. Front and all-wheel drive versions and greater versatility. 105 hp diesel engine announces consumption of 4l/100 km.
The Mazda CX-3 is the Japanese brand's new compact crossover and one of the members of its triumvirate that competes for this edition of the Essilor Car of the Year/Crystal Wheel Trophy 2016, together with the Mazda2 and the Mazda MX-5.
The new Mazda CX-3 shares with the brand's new generation of models the same values, visual identity and SKYACTIV technology – the construction and mechanical philosophy that is embedded in its new products.
With 4.28 meters in length and low weight, thanks to the use of light materials in its construction, the CX-3 is a compact crossover based on the Mazda2 city car platform that adds versatility and new features to compete in one of the fastest growing segments of the European market.
The KODO design philosophy imprints on the Mazda CX-3 lines a dynamic and modern stamp, which emphasizes aerodynamics, without sacrificing habitability and functionality.
The interior is designed in keeping with these design strengths, with an emphasis on the high waistline, glazed surfaces and unobtrusive pillars, which Mazda says ensure a spacious feeling. The occupant's shoulder and leg room are, according to Mazda, at the top of its segment. The flexible luggage compartment with a capacity of 350 liters is expandable up to 1,260 liters with the rear seats folded down.
Quality of life on board was another of the central concerns in the development of this crossover and that's why Mazda has endowed the CX-3 with a complete range of equipment and connectivity features, geared towards the driver. Highlight for the following elements: Active Driving Display, one of the first heads-up screens in this segment, showing real-time driving data (eg speed, directions, active safety warnings) directly in the driver's field of vision; “7-inch touch screen for controlling infotainment and communication functions; MZD Connect smartphone connectivity system “ensuring easier and safer access to the internet.”
Driving aid technologies were not forgotten either, and elements such as the parking camera, full LED optics with light-directing technology are part of the Mazda CX-3 equipment.
In the mechanical chapter, the CX-3 is available in front or all-wheel drive versions, combined with six-speed manual or automatic and with a range of engines featuring the new 105 hp 1.5 SKYACTIV-D Diesel block, distinguished by its low consumption , with announced averages of 4 l/100 km. It is precisely with this engine that the Mazda CX-3 competes for the Essilor Car of the Year/Trophy Crystal Steering Wheel and for the class reserved for the Crossover, where it will compete with: Audi Q7, Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda HR-V, KIA Sorento and Volvo XC90.
Text: Essilor Car of the Year Award / Crystal Steering Wheel Trophy
Images: Diogo Teixeira / Ledger Automobile