Mazda reveals CX-3 19 | 11 | 2014
MAZDA HAS UNVEILED its new CX-3 crossover, which will go head-to-head with the likes of the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Vauxhall Mokka.
Shown for the first time at the Los Angeles Motor Show, the CX-3 draws heavily on the recently launched Mazda2. In addition to using one of its engines, the CX-3 also retains many of the Mazda2's styling cues. The crossover even gets a version of the hatchback's cabin.
Expected to go on sale in Scotland in April, prices are expected to start around £15,000 for the entry-level front-wheel drive versions.
Due to be offered in both front- or four-wheel drive formats, the CX-3 gets the 2's prominent front grille, slim tail-lights and the same crisp surfacing as seen along the hatchback's flanks.
It's worth highlighting the CX-3 is 21.5cm longer and 5.5cm taller than the Mazda2, though it sits on the same wheelbase, at 2570mm.
Related: New Mazda2 unveiled
And in addition to prominent plastic wheelarch cladding, reminiscent of the CX-5, the new CX-3 also gets a blacked-out C-pillar that's designed to make the roof appear like it's floating.
Inside the cabin of the CX-3, it's all very similar to the Mazda 2, with the same slim fascia architecture and a central screen which is controlled by a dial between the front seats. Expect satellite navigation and internet-streamed services to be offered.
It's also likely — according to the initial images released by Mazda — that the head-up display offered in the 2 will also appear in the CX-3. Likewise, the safety technology — including lane departure warning system, blind spot monitoring and city emergency braking — which appears in the 2 should also appear in the CX-3.
Mazda is remaining tightlipped on specific of the engine range, other than to say the CX-3 will all have SkyActiv technology and be available a 2.0-litre petrol, in two states of tune, and a 1.5-litre diesel. Standard cars will come with a six-speed manual, though a six-speed automatic will also be available.
The 4WD versions — which will be available on all engine and gearbox combinations — get the same torque vectoring technology found on the CX-5.
Related: Mazda unveils new MX-5
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Jim McGill