Mazda CX-3: Know What This Crossover Has To Offer

MANILA: Subcompact crossovers are gaining popularity not only in the Philippines but, across the globe. As these cars are practical, compact yet spacious, inexpensive to operate and offers a rugged image than a contemporary hatchback, they have started gaining the trust of customers in an effective manner. Recently the Philippines has been bestowed with the much-awaited crossover from the house of Mazda, the brand which has been gaining consistent hike in terms of market share in the country. Yes, Mazda CX-3 has finally arrived in the Philippines and will be on display in the upcoming PIMS 2016 from September 14-18. Mazda 2, Mazda 6, Mazda 3 and Mazda CX-5 have already maintained a strong position in the market and now Mazda is gearing up for the subcompact crossover segment with CX-3.

In this article, we will explore some aspects of the newly launched Mazda's crossover, which you should know before making your buying decision.

Kodo - Soul Of Motion Design

Just like any other recently revealed model of Mazda, the CX-3 also follows the Kodo - Soul Of Motion Design theme, which grants the best aspects of the brand’s styling cues to the crossover, providing a muscular yet not giving a defined look of what a crossover should be like. Along with this, this Mazda crossover is way different from what a Mazda hatchback looks like and this is quite evident from the big fenders with plastic cladding, rocker panels and a significant ground clearance of 155 mm. The overall dimensions of the crossover measure 4,275 mm X 1,765 mm X 1,550 mm (L X W X H) and the wheelbase measure 2,570 mm that hints towards a significant cabin space for the occupants.

SkyActiv Power

Under the hood, the all-new Mazda CX-3 is equipped with a 2.0-litre, four cylinder SkyActiv- G gasoline engine which is good to produce a maximum power output of 146 hp and peak torque of 192 Nm. Available in three variants: Pro, Sport and AWD Activ, all of them are coupled with 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system in the top variant. Though the engine output figures are on a bit higher side, the Japanese automaker has ensured that the crossover does not lag much on the fuel efficiency front, and one can expect a mileage ranging approximately between 12 - 13 kmpl depending on the driving conditions.

Feature Loaded

Mazda knows well how to sustain in a competitive market and take lead in the segment. This is clearly reflected by the kind of features Mazda has offered in its new crossover. At the exterior, all the three variants come equipped with front fog lamps, shark’s fin antenna and dual exhaust pipes with finisher. The difference making features of Sport and AWD Activ trims include LED headlamps with daytime running lights, automatic-folding side mirrors and LED rear combination lamps.

In the cabin, the standard features include push start/stop button, leather steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth controls, paddle shifter, and leather shift knob. Even the seven-inch touchscreen LCD comes standard with MP3, auxiliary, USB, Bluetooth functionality, and command controller for the entertainment system. The other standard features are Bluetooth hands-free system, power windows, 12V power outlet and GPS navigation system.

Features like automatic single-zone climate control, overhead console with sunglass holder, heads up display and leather seats with suede makes Sport and AWD Activ trim a bit costlier than Pro. Further, the owners of AWD Activ enjoys the music of Bose audio setup which is not offered in the other two variants. To further add is the DVD player which is replaced with CD player in the Sport and Pro variants.

Class Leading Safety

Without ensuring the safety of the occupants in an optimal manner, no brand can compete in a segment which is already stuffed with other prominent options for the customers. All the three variants are fitted with passenger and driver airbags, ABS, stability control, immobilizer and a rear view camera. The side and curtain airbags being additional in Sport and AWD Activ variants, keyless entry system and rear parking sensors are offered only in the top variant.

With a starting price of PhP 1,280,000 the CX-3 crossover is surely a complete package for someone who is looking to have a power-packed performance without compromising on the features front. The particular off-roader will surely grab a lot of eyeballs at the upcoming PIMS 2016 from September 14-18. Stay tuned to CarBay for latest updates on the upcoming 6th Philippine International Motor Show.