2021 Mazda CX-3 Gets New Fuel-Friendly Engine

New 2021 Mazda CX-3 will gain a couple of essential refreshments. The subcompact crossover-SUV will introduce a new engine in Japan, along with new exterior paint. CX-3 is present for five years now and despite the new subcompact CX-30 model, CX-3 remains Mazda’s smallest SUV.

The Japanese manufacturer will introduce a couple of minor exterior and interior updates. However, a new engine is the highlight of the 2021 model. The sales will start in the coming weeks in Japan. On top of that, CX-3 will arrive in the United States in the first quarter of 2021.

2021 Mazda CX-3 design

Mazda CX-3 Facelift

As we said, the upcoming 2021 Mazda CX-3 is the brand’s smallest SUV. It comes with an athletic design but exterior upgrades are very minor for 2021. Whatsoever, the only visible update is the new Polymetal Gray Metallic paint that debuted on the new Mazda3 model. Besides that, the crossover will visually remain. The front end comes with the same pentagonal grille with horizontal bars.

Moreover, wide front air intake provides a sportier look. The front part looks premium, especially with the round headlights. To the sides, wheels are looking very upright and fenders are relatively high. The curvy roofline is another great styling cue. The rear looks bulbous and it hosts two exhaust outlets and wrap-around taillights.

2021 Mazda CX-3 facelift

Interior Provides Better Comfort

The interior of the 2021 Mazda CX-3 will also introduce minor updates. That includes new-gen seats that should provide a higher level of comfort. From what we know, both standard and optional upholstery should remain. Moreover, Mazda will deliver a new infotainment system and the latest phone connectivity features. The design of the cabin is simple and it hosts larger dials for the HVAC system.

Buttons are smaller and are perfectly placed. On the other hand, the infotainment system sits on top of the dashboard and is hard to reach. Tech-wise, new CX-3 SUV comes with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and numerous USB ports. If you want more premium features, upper trim levels are the answer.

2021 Mazda CX-3 interior

New Engine Option

The highlight of the 2021 Mazda CX-3 will be a new powertrain option. In Japan, this model will get a new 1.5-liter naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission and a standard front-wheel-drive system. This engine will deliver only 110 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. However, the new drivetrain option has been rated at 40 mpg combined, which is impressive.

Besides a new fuel-friendly engine, CX-3 can be had with either 2.0-liter gasoline or 1.8-liter turbodiesel engines. To compare, 2.0-liter gasoline generates 148 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. However, its fuel efficiency is significantly lower.

2021 Mazda CX-3 Price and Release Date

The forthcoming 2021 Mazda CX-3 will now cost $17,500. It is a small jump in price over the outgoing model. The CX-3 SUV will go on sale in the coming weeks, in Japan. As for the United States, Mazda’s smallest SUV will hit the markets early in 2021. The competition includes Kia Soul, Hyundai Kona, and Nissan Kicks.

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