Fun and practicality are a tricky combination in the world of crossovers, but the 2021 Mazda CX-3 could be the answer for those whose budget doesn’t stretch to Mercedes-Benz’s territory yet. While the GLA may blend engaging dynamics with its family-friendly form, the Mazda throws in unexpected attainability too.
The Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact SUV that has been in production since 2015. We recently test drove the CX -30 but rest assure that these are two different models and I believe this subcompact SUV will impress even the biggest sceptic. This 2021 model has a much shaper and more sleek front design compared to the previous models. The crossover design has a striking beauty that you really can’t contest.
For our long test of the Mazda CX-3 we received the car in Mazda’s newly developed paint called Polymetal Grey of which I’m a fan of. The colour is different and just helps you engage with the car more than you normally would, if that makes sense. Not much has changed on the exterior of the car expect the new pain colour that compliments the car exceptionally well.
The fun starts in the interior of the vehicle, as it sees the most change more so on the tech end. The vehicle has been updated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, the updated multimedia system and head-up display and blind spot monitoring. The car also has a rear cross traffic alert which lets you know of potential hazards when reversing. This uses the rear mounted radar sensors. Rear parking sensors and reverse camera have been installed with an audible alarm to assist the driver when reversing.
Our test vehicle was also fitted with a sunroof of which adds so much to the general aesthetic of the car of which I love. The interior design is definitely my favourite part of the car as it boasts a great BOSE sound system and well-designed leather seats and panels.
The use of high-end leather adds such great comfort and luxury to this subcompact SUV. I guess this is definitely something I enjoy about Mazda. Their uncompromised interiors. They understand that as a driver of the car you spend lots of time in it and the comfort and great design will go a long way.
The engine of the Mazda CX-3 is not the most desirable part of this vehicle as it to lack considerably when it comes to performance. Even with the 2.0L engine that produces 115kW is underwhelming. However, when you are pacing your travels it’s seems to manage very well especially in high traffic conditions. Other subtle features I like are the electronic parking brake, power fold mirrors and cruise control.
With the Mazda CX-3 the brand does live up to the notion “a tangible sense of quality and pleasure on tight city streets” and “It’s smoother to drive, quieter and more refined.” The car does live to this testament and the Mazda has stepped up its offering by introducing a high level of luxury in a car that starts from R346 700.
Mazda also gives you a 3-year unlimited kilometre warranty, 3-year Mazda care roadside assistance and a 3-year Mazda care unlimited kilometre service plan.
You might also like
More from Cars
Omoda & Jaecoo Confirm 2025 South Africa Model Line-Up
Chery Group brands Omoda and Jaecoo, which have taken South Africa by storm ever since their market introduction in 2023, …
Jetour spurs South African expansion with Super Group partnership
Jetour, a Chinese product from Chery group has announced a major expansion milestone wtih Super Group just weeks following its …
Lucas Radebe Partners with Volkswagen to Empower Young Girls
Volkswagen South Africa earlier today announced a new partnership with former South African national soccer captain Lucas Radebe. As of …