Mazda’s CX-3 is another addition to the small crossover scene. Does it add anything new, asks Al Suttie?
1 – Standing out in the competitive crossover market requires good looks and the CX-3 is one very sharp-suited contender.
2 – Sport Nav trim helps with the looks thanks to its 18-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels and rear privacy glass.
3 – Big wheels make the ride a little niggly at lower speeds, but the CX-3 is smooth and flat at motorway pace.
4 – There’s a little more cornering lean than I would have expected of a Mazda, but that controlled ride is the compensation.
5 – Steering, brakes, clutch, gear shift and throttle are all ideally weighted, giving the CX-3 a cohesive feel missing in some rivals.
6 – The sense of cohesion is furthered by the Sport Nav’s half leather upholstery and the detailing of the stitching on the dash.
7 – I’m not normally a fan of head-up displays, but the CX-3’s works well and is needed as the dash’s digital speedo can be hard to spot at a glance.
8 – Driving position is very good, but no steering reach adjustment means it’s not as fine tune-able as some rivals’.
9 – Rear seat space is merely adequate compared to similarly priced small hatches, but much the same as other crossovers’.
10 – The SUV-alike looks can only work so far and they run out when it comes to boot space, even with the false floor removed.
