Good news awaits consumers visiting Mazda dealerships in search of a small SUV that’s affordable and fun to drive: the Mazda CX-3 has just been spruced up with its first true update and offers an upgraded list of equipment. But the best news is that a new manual-transmission base version has been added with a price point of just $19,995.
In response to aggressive new players in the market, for example the Nissan Qashqai (also available at under $20,000), the 2018 CX-3 now offers as a standard feature Mazda’s Smart City Brake Support system, which helps avoid collisions by automatically applying the brakes in emergency situations when traveling under 30 km/h.
The intermediate GS version of the CX-3 now comes with standard Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (both previously only optional) for added safety. Also included for the first time are a heated steering wheel and automatic climate control.
The new i-ACTIVSENSE package adds the latest roster of Mazda safety equipment, such as Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC), Smart Brake Support (SBS), Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), High Beam Control System (HBC), Distance Recognition Support System (DRSS), LED headlights with auto levelling, Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), LED rear combination lights with signature lighting, and colour Active Driving Display (ADD).
Other notable changes to the 2018 Mazda CX-3 become apparent when driving it, like the improved suspension bushings, new front lower control arms, recalibrated dampers and new engine mounts. For its part, the 146-hp 4-cylinder engine has not changed, although the accelerator pedal and gearbox have been reworked to offer more responsiveness. In addition, the car now features improved door seals, thicker rear glass and sound suppression mats installed beneath the floor for a more refined driving experience.
Pricing for the 2018 Mazda CX-3:
