Mazda CX-3
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a small SUV that drives like a sports car? The Mazda CX-3 could be exactly what you need. This compact crossover brings together the practicality of an SUV with the engaging handling that Mazda is famous for. It’s designed for drivers who want something different from the usual family-friendly approach, offering a more spirited driving experience without sacrificing everyday usability.

From the outside, the CX-3 catches your eye immediately. Its bold KODO design language gives it a dynamic, almost coupe-like profile that stands out from rivals like the Nissan Qashqai or Kia Sportage. The interior continues this premium theme with high-quality materials and Mazda’s signature attention to detail. You’ll notice the difference in build quality the moment you sit inside.

What really sets the CX-3 apart is how it drives. While most small SUVs prioritise comfort over excitement, the CX-3 delivers genuine driving pleasure. The steering is precise and communicative, the chassis is beautifully balanced, and the whole car feels eager and responsive. It’s the kind of vehicle that makes even mundane journeys feel engaging. Yes, it comes with a premium price tag, but you’re getting a uniquely sporty small SUV that feels special every time you drive it.

What's the Mazda CX-3 Like to Drive?

The Mazda CX-3 lineup focuses on naturally aspirated engines that deliver smooth, linear power delivery. The 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine produces around 121 horsepower and provides adequate performance for most situations. It’s not the fastest small SUV on the market, but it feels lively and responsive in real-world driving. The 0-60 mph time of around 10 seconds is respectable for the class, and the engine note has a pleasant, sporty character that encourages you to rev it.

The real magic happens when you start cornering. The CX-3 handles like a much smaller, lower car thanks to its excellent chassis tuning and precise steering. Turn-in is sharp and immediate, body roll is minimal, and the car feels planted and confident through twisty sections. The suspension strikes an impressive balance between comfort and control, soaking up everyday bumps while maintaining excellent body control. It’s genuinely one of the most entertaining small SUVs to drive, feeling more like a raised hot hatch than a traditional crossover.

Inside the Mazda CX-3: Comfort & Features

Step inside the CX-3 and you’re greeted by one of the most upmarket interiors in the small SUV class. The dashboard design is clean and driver-focused, with high-quality soft-touch materials throughout. The fit and finish rivals much more expensive vehicles, with everything feeling solid and well-assembled. The central infotainment screen is intuitive to use, and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard on most models.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable, offering good adjustment range for different body sizes. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, creating a refined cabin atmosphere even at motorway speeds. The seating position strikes a good balance between the commanding view you want from an SUV and the low, sporty feel that makes the CX-3 special. Climate control is effective, and the overall ergonomics are excellent, with all major controls falling easily to hand. Higher trim levels add premium touches like leather upholstery and heated seats that enhance the upmarket feel.

The Mazda CX-3 succeeds brilliantly at being different. In a world of sensible, practical small SUVs, it offers genuine driving excitement without completely sacrificing everyday usability. The handling is genuinely impressive, the interior quality is excellent, and the distinctive styling ensures you’ll stand out from the crowd. It’s a car that makes you smile every time you drive it.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Mazda CX-3?

The CX-3’s naturally aspirated petrol engine delivers solid fuel economy figures, typically achieving 44-47 mpg in mixed driving conditions. This translates to reasonable fuel costs, especially considering the performance and refinement on offer. Insurance groups are moderate for the class, though they may be slightly higher than for some mainstream alternatives due to the car’s sporty nature and premium positioning.

The main consideration is the initial purchase price, which sits at the higher end of the small SUV market. You’re paying for Mazda’s premium build quality, engaging driving dynamics, and distinctive styling. Reliability has generally been good for the CX-3, with most owners reporting trouble-free ownership when regular maintenance is followed. Service costs are reasonable, and car finance options can help spread the cost of ownership. While it’s not the cheapest small SUV to buy or run, the CX-3’s strong residual values and engaging character help justify the premium.

Is the Mazda CX-3 Practical for Everyday Use?

The CX-3’s sporty character comes with some practical compromises. The 287-litre boot is on the smaller side for the class, limiting its appeal for families who regularly need maximum cargo space. However, the rear seats do fold flat to expand the load area when needed. Inside the cabin, you’ll find reasonable storage solutions including door pockets, cupholders, and a useful centre console compartment for everyday items.

Rear seat space is adequate for children or smaller adults on shorter journeys, but taller passengers may find legroom tight on longer trips. The CX-3 works best as a couple’s car or for small families with young children who prioritise driving enjoyment over maximum space. For buyers who need more practicality, used Mazda cars like the larger CX-5 might be worth considering. However, the CX-3’s compact dimensions make it excellent for urban driving, parking easily in tight spaces where larger SUVs would struggle.

The Mazda CX-3 carves out a unique position in the small SUV market by prioritising driving enjoyment over pure practicality. It delivers exceptional build quality, engaging handling, and distinctive styling in a compact crossover package. The premium interior and refined driving experience make every journey feel more special than it would in a conventional small SUV.

You choose the CX-3 because you want a small SUV that doesn’t drive like one. It’s ideal for buyers who appreciate fine engineering and want their daily driver to put a smile on their face. While it may not offer the most space or the lowest running costs, it provides something increasingly rare in today’s market genuine driving character. For those seeking an engaging small SUV with premium appeal, the CX-3 deserves serious consideration, especially with cars under £10,000 available on the used market.