2021 Mazda CX-3 SUV

　　

2021 Mazda CX-3 Review

byCameron RogersManager, News

　　Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at zzdcar include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).

　　Most automakers sell a single model in each SUV category these days. But do some research on Mazda and you'll find it sells a pair of extra-small SUVs: the CX-3 and the CX-30. So what's the difference? Well, both models exhibit the brand's penchant for sleek styling, exciting driving dynamics and upscale interior design. But ever since Mazda introduced the CX-30 last year, the CX-3 has taken more of a supporting role.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 Mazda CX-3 Sport 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$122/mo  for CX-3 Sport

　　CX-3 Sport

　　Sport 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A) - $20,790 MSRPSport 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $22,190 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　As the new star, the CX-30 has a more modern and high-tech interior as well as a more diverse trim lineup. As it stands, the 2021 CX-3 is only available in a single, albeit well-equipped, trim level. The only option — besides color choice — is all-wheel drive. We still like the CX-3. It's less expensive and more generously equipped than the base CX-30. But if you want a more up-to-date vehicle, the CX-30 is the way to go.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.7

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the CX-3 drive? Power is more than adequate for typical city driving, and the CX-3 has no issues merging with highway traffic. But once up to speed, passing on the highway, or even maintaining speed on longer uphill grades, requires near maximum throttle.

　　Despite the lack of power, the CX-3 remains one of the better SUVs to drive in the class. The CX-3's responsive steering makes it easy to guide through fast, flowing turns. But the tires howl even at very modest cornering speeds, putting a damper on how much fun you can have on a twisty road.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the CX-3? The Mazda distinguishes itself in the class with a firm but compliant suspension. Body control is excellent, and everything from speed bumps to high-speed highway dips are dispatched beautifully. Likewise, broken pavement doesn't really faze the Mazda.

　　Most people will find the front seats of the CX-3 agreeable and comfortable, though the seats come up a bit short on thigh and back support for larger-framed folks. Imperfect roads introduce a fair amount of road noise into the cabin. But that pales next to the noise the engine makes under hard acceleration.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below