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2017 Mazda CX-3 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
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Mazda CX-3 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Sporty handling
  • Attractive interior
  • Comfortable front seats

Cons

  • Small rear seat
  • Not much cargo space
  • No manual option

Mileage (EPA estimate)

27 city, 32 highway, 29 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

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Price
Year

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Fun-to-drive subcompact crossover

In most cases, subcompact crossovers are more appliances than they are fun to drive, but Mazda flips this generalization its ear with the 2017 Mazda CX-3. This subcompact crossover has plenty of power for its tiny footprint, as its 2.0L four-cylinder engine delivers 146 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque. The area where the CX-3 does its best work is dealing with curvy back roads. Its suspension makes short work of sharp corners while its precise steering system gives you excellent feedback, making it a thrill to drive. 

All Mazda CX-3 years

What is new for the 2017 Mazda CX-3?

  • CX-3 trims have been upgraded with Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment this year.
  • Parking Sensors features are now available as options on select trims.

Mazda CX-3 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2017 Mazda CX-3

1. Well-balanced powertrain 

The 2017 Mazda CX-3’s 2.0L engine delivers only 146 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque, but with a 2,952-pound base curb weight, this is ample power. This powertrain is also well-balanced, as its EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings check in at 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined with front-wheel drive.

Opt for all-wheel drive, and these numbers dip slightly to 27 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined.

2. Quite an agile crossover 

Mazda is known for its “zoom-zoom” persona, and this transcends its entire lineup, including the 2017 CX-3. This subcompact crossover boasts tight and responsive steering and suspension systems that keep it glued to the road in the corners while giving you excellent steering and suspension feedback so you feel in complete control. On top of all, it offers excellent handling without sacrificing comfort.  

3. Quiet cabin 

Despite a small footprint, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 does a great job in sound absorption in the chassis and sound deadening in its cabin. This helps keep road and wind noise minimal, ensuring the 2017 Mazda CX-3’s cabin is impressively quiet at highway speeds. With this peaceful cabin, you’re sure to have a more pleasurable daily commute.  

4. High-quality interior 

Mazda has done a great job balancing its cost while ensuring the 2017 CX-3 still delivers an upscale look and feel inside. The Mazda CX-3 skips much of the cheapness of other small crossovers so you can enjoy high-quality materials and a sleek, sophisticated dashboard. The latter boasts a standard seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an optional digital speedometer to give it an even more upscale look and feel. On top of this premium look, the 2017 CX-3’s front seats offer loads of support and cushioning, adding to its already impressive interior.  

5. Features and options aplenty 

The 2017 Mazda CX-3 continues going against the subcompact grain with a long list of standard features. In addition to its seven-inch touchscreen, the 2017 CX-3 will impress you with its standard rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity with streaming audio, cruise control, power windows and locks, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, keyless ignition, and more. Do you need more features? The CX-3’s higher trims offer you even more, including blind-spot monitoring, rear traffic alert, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, suede seat inserts, Bose audio, automatic climate control, a head-up display, and more. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4
1
2
Excellent

RepairPal gave the Mazda CX-3 an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks Mazda CX-3 2nd out of 8 among Subcompact SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Mazda CX-3

Mazda CX-3 features and specs

Grand Touring 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • BOSE Sound System
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Head Up Display
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Parking Sensors
  • Remote Start

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

146

Torque (ft-lbs)

146

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

12.7

Wheelbase

101.2"

Overall length

168.3"

Width

69.6"

Height

60.7"

Leg room

F 41.7"/R 35"

Head room

F 37.6"/R 37.2"

Front tires

P215/50VR18

Rear tires

P215/50VR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2017 Mazda CX-3 FAQ

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