2019 Mazda CX-3 – Review and Road Test

In the popular sub-compact SUV/crossover segment the 2019 Mazda CX-3 is without a doubt the sportiest and least SUV-like contender. While fun can the CX-3’s superior handling and sharp styling make up for a cozy cabin and less than stellar cargo space? In this video Kelley Blue Book’s Micah Muzio examines the pros and cons of owning a Mazda CX-3.

For the latest Mazda CX-3 pricing and information:

[timcongrove]

Just bought a 2018 Mazda cx-3 Grand touring with premium package certified piano with 14, 000 miles traded in my Nissan Sentra for it. I love this car it's so much fun to drive and I don't need a lot of room just me and two puggles

[MrMazda-ihcw]

In the compact SUV segment, the CX-3 is right up there with the best of them, and for driving experience, sitting at the top!

[AC-gwqu]

You're right that both the Mazda 3 and the CX-3 have a similar ground clearance--Edmunds has the 3 at 6.1" and the CX-3 at 6.2". However, that's not all there is to the SUV quality of the CX-3 ride. The bigger difference between the two is the overall height (and visibility) that the vehicles provide. The 3 is 57.3" tall while the CX-3 is 60.9" That's ~4" taller without any significant increase in roll-over risk--the seat is 4" higher. I'm 6'3" but my wife's 5'6" and this difference in height is one major reason we went for the CX-3 over the 3. She drives like she's 5'10": more confident with greater visibility that the CX-3 provides. If you're doing reviews, a good rule to follow is to measure twice, edit once. Cheers.

[DerekJamesMandy]

What I’m surprised no one ever seems to cover or mention is the raised seating position versus the Mazda3. It’s also a 10 way power seat with memory position versus the 3s 6-8 way power seats.

Ground clearance might be similar but your legs will actually be more at a 90 degree chair seating position more commonly associated with mid size SUVs.

I’m just shy of 6’2” and I’m much more comfortable sitting in this than a 3. A Mazda3 sits much lower and typically my knees are higher than my hip point (pointing towards the sky). Still comfortable just not ideal for someone of my height.

It all depends on preferences. If storage is more a concern than the Mazda3 from front to back is better. If you primarily care about sitting higher and having AWD. Get the CX3.

[christianj]

I'd take a CX-3 over a Toyota C-HR any day.

[sportsMike]

I've had my Mazda 3 since 2016. Never have I longed for Android Auto or Apple Carplay. Bluetooth is sufficient enough for me

[lawrenceyy]

The HRV looks cheap. CX-3 has better style even though it's smaller inside.

[sportsMike]

Yeah in 2016 I was choosing between this and the Mazda 3. Acceleration is a problem when merging onto highways in this car when I test drove it. If you don't care about AWD go with the Mazda 3

[bradnorrad]

I have one. its great for 2 quite responsive and great on fuel. also awd is great in the winter

[skypeters]

I need this lil thing. Perfect first car

[hnnotyy]

Nothing to see here 2019 model has improved more than the 2018 it would be a waste to get the 2018 since it is the same as the 2016-2017 models. 2019 improved interior, better ride, improved sound dampers, 2 more hp to engine, center console improved. Nothing reported on the infotainment system if it has been improved since the current is very laggy and buggy and Nav system is not detailed as others in class. CX3 is still worth a look at also among standard features, there is the Smart Brake Support, Mazda Radar Cruise Control . As well, the manufacturer has added a few more options which include power driver’s set with memory, a heated steering wheel, and full-color driving display.

[edwardfrancis]

Worthy to note my insurance quotes for different cars:
Ford Mustang GT = $230.00 / month
Ford Mustang Ecoboost = $230.00 / month
Honda Civic Sedan = $195.00 / month
Mazda Hatch = $195.00 / month
Mazda CX-3 = $100.00 / month


I also spend 5 days a week getting stuck in hours-long traffic. In the end, baby SUV and low insurance captured my heart!

[thecarelectronicguy]

The whole subcompact SUV thing doesn’t make much sense to me. Many of them aren’t that much cheaper than the compact SUV that sits above them, and pretty much all of them are ridiculously underpowered. Not to mention that cargo space is rather small compared to a compact SUV or even a mid sized sedan.

[emilybangar-martinez]

I have this car and I absolutely love it. Very sporty looking and fun to drive. I get so many compliments 😊

[coejbee]

I like all the vehicles in this class, but the Mazda is one of, if not _the_ best looking & driving "sub compact" CUVs out there. It may not be the most practical, but who cares? I don't.

[nicologarcia]

I really love the CX-3. There's really no bad angle to this car.

[connormcnicol-day]

Great review as always, Micah. You always put the fun into motor journalism. Also, if you're ever in Scotland, say hi!

[Sneakypetevaporizers]

you guys do such great videos, always enjoy watching them!

[juliansantos]

mazda 3 and cx3 2 different cars. I encourage anyone to drive a cx3 love it

[islandtoisland]

In 2016, I looked at the CX-3 but ended up getting an used Mazda5. I saved $12k, got sliding doors, spacious 2nd row, emergency 3rd row and 71 sq ft max cargo space. The CX-3 has too many deal breakers.