Form meets function in the latest Mazda CX-3 that competes in the popular compact crossover SUV segment against brands like Toyota and Ford. Designed using the same principles introduced with the CX-5, the CX-3 is more than just another small SUV.
Mazda South Africa describes the CX-3 as being 'engineered to perfection', with a bit of Jinba ittai – the sensation of the bond shared between horse and rider – added to the mix. The CX-3 offers owners the chance to tackle almost any urban route or off-road track with ease while remaining in relative luxury and comfort.
According to NAAMSA's vehicle sales report, Mazda's approach to compact SUV motoring seems to be working. Their compact SUVs are listed as one of the automaker's top sellers. Does the new Mazda CX-3 have enough to win over its rivals though? Let's learn more about it.
The Mazda CX-3 was introduced in 2014 at a photo gallery and officially launched at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, with production commencing in 2016. In its relatively short lifetime, it has claimed several awards including the 2016 IIHS Top Safety Pick, the 2016 Thailand Car of the Year, and the 2015 Red Dot Design Award. It was also a finalist in the 2016 World Car Design of the Year awards.
The Mazda CX-3 boasts a sleek and sharp exterior design contrasted with rounded interior detailing. Its large grille stands central to sweeping headlights and lines flowing along its sides. Its interior is home to a modern and simplistic design approach with a few buttons scattered across the dashboard.
A large infotainment system display fills much of the fascia and takes centre stage, while the adjustable steering wheel resembles that of a spaceship control centre. Bluetooth connectivity is available and converts the car into a personalised entertainment centre that can be controlled via the steering wheel. Keyless entry, cruise control, and electronic park brake (EPB) also come standard.
Safety features include anti-lock braking system (ABS), emergency brake assist (EBA), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and dynamic stability control (DSC). The always-helpful hill launch assist (HLA) is at hand to help you climb inclines without rolling backwards.
The Mazda CX-3 SUV 2.0 L Active offers 115kW and 206Nm of torque through its front wheels. Power is transferred via a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Mazda CX-3 models are available at any Mazda South Africa dealership across the country and test drives can be booked online via the Mazda South Africa website. Mazda does not offer in-house financing, but you can get a quote for vehicle financing online at hippo.co.za. The entry-level Mazda CX-3 2.0 L Active retails from R320,100.
Mazda South Africa offers a unique Mazda Lifetime Parts Motor Warranty, a guarantee that Mazda will replace any part that fails to function as it should during the lifetime of ownership. This is in addition to the three-year/unlimited km factory warranty offered by Mazda South Africa. Various services plans are available as well.
You can find out more about these warranties by connecting with your nearest Mazda dealership or by contacting them via the Mazda South Africa website.
Mazda is not listed among the highest theft-risk vehicle brands in South Africa. This could be beneficial when applying for car insurance as risk is a major factor in any car insurance quote.
Mazda South Africa doesn't offer in-house insurance on its vehicles but you can get insurance quotes for Mazda CX-3 models online using the hippo.co.za car insurance comparison tool today. Compare quotes from car insurance companies across the country and see which one offers you the best deal and value for money.
| Vehicle Make & Model | Average Accepted Premium | Minimum Accepted Premium |
|---|---|---|
| CX-3 | R 1,449 | R 477 |
Prices quoted are correct at the time of publishing this article. The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or medical advice.
