The Mazda made quite an impact to the mid-range sedans and SUVs with its CX-5, CX-7, Mazda 3 and 6 models, which feature a stunning design, as well as amazing performance. Now, we will see another member added to the family and it will be named 2017 Mazda CX-3. The model itself will slot beneath the CX-5 size-wise, but that doesn’t mean it is doomed from the start, as many people would want to own a CX-5, but will be happy to save some money and purchase a CX-3 instead, keeping the design, performance, but getting slightly smaller vehicle. Much is expected from this little guy and we hope it will succeed.
Engine and Performance of 2018 Mazda CX-3
The 2017 Mazda CX-3 will feature a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, with direct injected fuel delivery, capable of outputting of 146 horsepower, at 6000 rpm, with the maximum torque output of 146 pounds-feet, at 2800 rpm. The model will be coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission system. The model will be available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configuration. The fuel economy of this model is rather impressive.
Considering the front-wheel drive configuration the EPA ratings are 34 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city, with a combined mileage of 31 mpg. The cruising range in the city is 368 miles, while on the highway the number is 431 miles. The all-wheel drive will have slightly worse results and the results are 32 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in the city, with a combined mileage of 30 mpg. Although the engine is not very powerful and is almost unfitting for this new model, we feel that this model will be very interesting to the buyers who would prefer the fuel economy over power.
2016 Mazda CX-3 Engine – Source: autoguide.com
Design of the Exterior
The new Mazda CX-3 is a real head turner. At the front, famous chromium plated grille with horizontal stripes and Mazda sign positioned at the center, just like we have the chance to see on all current Mazda models. The 2017 Mazda CX-3 will feature sharp, edgy and slightly inclined headlights that resemble machete, featuring LED technology. The fog lights are mounted just beneath the headlights and feature interesting design.
The front bumper will have a single large air intake opening, with a horizontal split in the center. At the back, the new CX-3 looks great as well and consistent with the front and the rest of design philosophy. The model is 168.3 inches long, 69.6 inches wide and 60.7 inches tall, with a wheelbase length of 101.2 inches. The new CX-3 will have 18×7 wheels both rear and front featuring aluminum alloy as the primary material.
Interior design
On the inside, the new Mazda CX-3 will have many safety and entertainment features, such as a 7-inch LCD touchscreen with infotainment system, Modular Audio System signed by Bose, MP3 capability, aux audio input jack, Bluetooth hands free phone and audio connectivity, multi-function commander control, USB connectivity, integrated roof antenna, Internet Radio, SiriusXM Satellite radio, voice commands, real-time traffic display, etc. Safety features will include electronic stability control, ABS, side impact beams, blind spot monitoring, front and rear collision warning, low tire pressure warning, dual stage airbags, back-up camera and much more.
2017 Mazda CX-3 Pricing and Release Date
The 2017 Mazda CX-3 is scheduled for release this fall, when we will able to see exactly how well the new CX-3 handles the competition. The prices aren’t official yet, but it is safe to assume that the starting price point for the base model will be around $20,000. Although sounds pretty expensive, especially considering the cheaper competition, the new CX-3 will have much to offer, the price seems justified.
Video of 2016 model:
