Agree, but to me they have always driven very well. My wife has been a mazda can her whole life because she liked the way they steer and don't flop over in the corners. They are great to drive, our 2016 mazda6 GT is a blast with the paddles on a canyon road. Our mazdaspeed3 was just brilliant on track days and daily driving too.
+Raymond Newbill so true man....my family and I have only purchased Mazdas since 2000 (not including my brother's FD RX7, Precidia or my Camaro) and we loved them all....currently we have a 2010+ Mazda 6 V6, CX5, CX9 and Mazda 5. Great cars, IMO nothing in their classes compares as far as sportiness and driving dynamics go....and then there's the styling :D
". . . I don't really call that a crossover. . . " shhh, don't tell them it's a wagon, if you tell them these cars aren't SUVs people will stop buying them. you see everybody secretly wants a wagon but here in america wagons have a negative connotation for some reason, so we're progressively making more and more wagon like SUV "crossovers".
Mazda has always been about balance. Their engines are underpowered so that they don't overpower the chassis, which is turned to for crisp, light-footed handling without any harsh ride penalties. I love the look of this car but I would've liked it better as a standard height Mazda 2. It's a shame that Americans won't buy a hatchback or a wagon without 100 lbs of plastic cladding and a lift kit.
I bought a 2014 Mazda2, but man, if I could have grabbedthe restyled newer model I would have loved to. Was super disappointed they weren't bringing it back to the US. That Scion iA just isn't as cool with the fish face & sedan format. Oh well. :(
I was working in Peru for a few weeks and saw the new Mazda2 in hatch and sedan form and thought, why the hell isn't this car sold in the US??? I think they are facing pressure from Ford since they sell its platform-mate Fiesta, which in sedan form looks rather goofy.
I've watched allot of reviews on the CX3. And surprisingly even though I know this car isn't really your thing, this review is the most fair and honest I've seen! Thanks Matt. Well played.
Also to give an idea of size, surprisingly this CX3 at 168 inches long is about 4 inches SHORTER than my 94-01 Acura Integra 2-door coupe or my wife's 96 Corolla (both 172 inches). Being able to fit in our garage is very important and I was very surprised at its relative small size and weight. 2800 lbs is only about 275 lbs heavier than my Integra which is amazing.
+Peder Hansen CX-5 AWD 2.5L (because the 2.0 version feels underpowered) would cost a lot more than a CX-3 AWD 2L. CX-3 weighs like 300-400 pounds less too. Price is a lot lower. It all depends.
oh man oh man, fancy seeing this here in my feed. I was just at the Memphis Auto Show on Sunday, saw this thing, and immediately sent my wife a few pics of it. Now we want one BAD to replace her 96 Corolla with 278K miles that she's been driving since HIGH SCHOOL in the late 90's! Neither of us have bought a new car before. And I'm usually one who hates a car payment. But man, like Matt said it's got SO MUCH for the 24K-25K price!! The LED lighting package is my favorite feature. I've been something of an automotive lighting connoisseur over the years.
Lightweight, good chassis, brakes and steering. Underpowered and you have to flog it to have fun. So basically what you're saying is that is the 5 door, family version of a BRZ, with nicer interior amenities?
I admire that you appreciate cars at all prices, from lots of different makes. No snobbery at all and its one of the things that makes ST a joy to watch.
Generelly I at least try to spend as little time as possible inside the cargo space while driving ;) Seriusly though - don't see the problem. If you learn to reverse using the rear view mirrors it's a non issue. And you don't have to break your back every time you want to reverse :P
Roger Skagerström It just seems like a waste of glass. Metal could have been put there, which would increase structural strength, and would also be cheaper.
Ah yeah you mean in that sence. I think it would look stupid though. Never really liked how the Golfs look around that part for example. But that's a matter of taste :P Having both the C and D pillar so close to eachother will give plenty of rigidity though. And I thing glass is more ridigid actually - as long as it's fastened the right way.
"Who cares about throttle response when there's just not much power behind the throttle?" That's when you need throttle response most. It provides the feeling of more power, and I'm sure everyone who buys it and enjoys driving will appreciate it.
stopped by a mazda dealership to check out the ND miata when they first came out and ended up falling in love with the cx3, purchased one used 3 or 4 years later and i have nothing but good things to say. i think you nailed the review, low on power but for the price they're a great option for a daily car. i am a biased mazda fan boy tho
+xkrnxboix For about the same money you can get a Mazda3 which has about the same or better interior space and cargo room, has the option for a 2.5L engine with considerably more power, and the manual transmission. You get this car if you want a tall driving position and AWD, basically.
+zxbc That's definitely something to think about. Might be better to upgrade to a CX-5 if you want more room also. I wonder what are ground clearance of the CX-3 is compared to the Mazda3.
+Jeff K Of course I cross shopped the mazda 3 hatchback and the GTI and there is just no comparison when it comes to interior, handling, and performance. The mazda looses in every category including price if you get the sporty 2.5L version, still a nice car though.
Its small - but it's meant to be - and part of a new segment of sub-compact SUV's. Fast becoming the leader when compared to the HR-V, Trax, and others. I like it, and I know - I'm biased
Call it what you want, Matt, but this CX-3, like the Juke, HRV, Renegade etc. are all sub-compact SUV's. A Mazda2 would be a small car, this is an SUV version of the Mazda2 like a CX-5 is an SUV version of the Mazda3 and the CX-9 is a version of the Mazda6.
A juke, renegade, or HRV is noticeably bigger than the CX3. The CX3 stands less than 3 inches taller than our Fiesta. It may look like a CUV in photos, but this is a compact car on slightly oversized tires with body cladding.
+Brandon Friesen I would agree it's part of the mini-suv segment, something similar to what Chevy, Buick and a few others offer. Regardless on how you classify if, it's a neat little vehicle, not something I would want, but for the price it's pretty decent.
TheSmokingTire I worked for Mazda up until 2 months ago. It's a sub compact. That's the class Mazda even said it competes in, that's the class Motortrend and Car and Driver classify it as, and that's the class the EPA classifies it as. The Juke, HRV etc are all in the same segment. Trust me, I spent 1 straight week of training for this stuff, I know what I'm saying.
+Brandon Friesen I do not listen to manufacturers when it comes to classifying cars. I couldn't give less of a fuck what they call it or what they think we should call it. I call cars what they are based on common sense, excluding buzzwords or employee training programs. Mercedes calls the CLS a coupe, and it's not a fucking coupe because it has four doors. Ditto the 6-series "Gran Coupe" from BMW, which is also, not a coupe. Mazda can call this thing whatever it wants, but when the seat height is about at my knees and I have to duck to get in the thing, that's not a crossover, or a compact SUV it's a hatchback.
After watching this video a few times I made my choice in 2020 and I bought my 2017 "Wazda" cx3gt great little car. Good on gas ! Small enough to fit anywhere I live in LA parking sucks . 100000 miles later no issues what so ever. It does come with a hidden sport mode if you want a little more zoom zoom power .
I think the problem with this car is that it's clearly designed for the Europe market where handling is needed more than power. I think it's well suited to the UK for example but for the US market it isn't really even going to make a dent in the car market
I like that they still use the torque converter automatic, I'm not a fan of dual clutch because of the few annoying things about them and reliability issues...another great thing is that with no turbo, it has one less thing to break.
Its basically just a TALL compact hatchback car. Think of a 1990's Honda civic hatchback, but taller. With NO CVT, and a regular geared automatic transmission, it is one of the few small tall hatchbacks that is not DOG-SLOW with an automatic (like the Honda HR-V is.)
Listen for a few seconds with your eyes closed.....sounds like an econobox with a fart tube. Anyways, I love the way they're (Mazda) going with the looks and quality of the vehicles. But with this and the miata, the 'missing something' is (for me anyways) a minor increase in power that could be the deal MAKER for many people. Great episode as always, Keep em coming!
Im in the market for a new car, and this would have been my number 1 choice, but Mazda didn't give the option of a Manual!! I hope your reading this Mazda!!!... I want one of your cars... I was considering the Mazda6 too... But then you put a stupid electronic parking brake! Damit Mazda... =(
Haha same here! I replayed that part at least 6 times trying to find out what it was. First I thought it was a cyclist. Then I thought it was dying roadkill. Then I finally concluded that it had to be a seagull, but I'm honestly clueless, lol
I mean there was something on the road that I thought looked like an animal at that same moment, but it just seems weird that it would have been that clear on the audio.
I wonder how hard would it be to transplant the Mazdaspeed3's engine package into the 4wd version of this? Lower it and you'd have a Mazda version of the Subaru WRX wagon. With a nicer interior package. The downside would be that awesome transmission probably couldn't take more power than the current engine produces now.
Hey Matt, you ever think TST will get ahold of Larry's 964? Unless you've already reviewed it which could very well be the case because, well, I'm lazy and didn't really look.
I'm due for tires on my 2016 mazda cx 3 grand touring. Aside from the Yokohama tires(which are pricey) what other brand tires to you recomend(economic)??
I can imagine hundreds of cars that are more fun AND cheaper, but it sure is a good car. Although you say it drives best at 5-7k rpm I think it sounds awful in that range. It sounds like it's overstrained and will break after 50tkm and there's too much going on with the design that wouldn't make me happy for the 24k it costs.
My apologies for a "comment before I watched the video", but just saw these at the auto show and they are SMALL inside. The back seat is tiny and the trunk is tiny. It has less-than-hatchback utility, which renders this car utterly useless in my book (even though it's otherwise quite nicely done).
I was kinda disappointed to see this lil guy. . BUT, that was a damn good review. I was kinda routing for it by the end. can we get a fire breathing Hennessy Venom next plz? I'm sure everyone would
hey Matt would you recommend this for a young guy that has 25k to purchase as a gateway into liking cars? I'm trying to convince my friend this would be a good car for him. Also, if this is the skyactiv-g how come it makes less than the 2.0 in the Miata?🤔
I believe that Mazda has the torque converter lock itself out at higher speeds. They started this with the Mazda6 so its actually a lot better than most auto's with the paddles.
+jaynen Yeah I've been reading their sites for the SkyActiv auto transmissions and they really maximized the threshold at which the torque converter is locked out, and I think they even use two clutch packs for even and odd gears like DCTs do. I love a good manual but the autos that come in Mazdas these days are compelling.
If there were higher demand Mazda would put a manual in these which would be great I imagine. You can get the cx5 with one. I'll likely be opting for the cx5 with a manual for that exact reason.
Always had a soft spot for Mazda since my 1989 '121 LS Suntop' I had when I was about 13 to learn to drive/destroy on the farm. It was a well spec'd 1.3 with a good handbrake and an electric sunroof which went front to back. Needless so say they make much better cars these days.
2016 Mazda CX-3 or 2016 Subaru Crosstrek... I've been looking into the crostrek for a few months, still haven't had the time to go test drive, but I think it's going to be the one...
I have genuinely been looking at these as a budget "keep me awake on the commute to work but still be useful when I'm calling in sick". My current 2013 V6 MT Accord is really annoying as a daily. I've been thinking about relegating it to show car use and weekend fun. My 2004 SVT Focus has been completely stripped and pretty much only used for track and can only carry two at this point. I've been wondering about this CX-3 AWD for a long time. Never really thought much about the current Mazda line up other than "wow, pretty". Then my fiance got a 2015 Mazda3 base model automatic and holy cow that car is a blast to drive in a way that makes me miss the stock SVT Focus. It handled extremely well on Ortega canyon with a few other legit "fun" cars, it was comfy AF, and got 40 something MPG to LA. Now that I learned that this CX-3 is certified okay it seems like a fun purchase. 2800 lbs CX-3 vs 2800 lbs SVT Focus. 146hp/146lb-ft CX-3 vs 149hp/134lb-ft SVT Focus AT AWD CX-3 vs MT FWD SVT Focus Fully Independent Suspension CX-3 vs Fully Independent Suspension SVT Focus 30+ MPG CX-3 vs ~20 MPG SVT Focus Great Interior CX-3 vs Recaro Seats SVT Focus Mazda Legendary Chassis Tuning CX-3 vs Legendary Platform SVT Focus ~11" Front Brakes CX-3 vs 11.8" Front Brakes SVT Focus While I know it's not going to be the buckets of fun that the SVT Focus has been over the years, it seems like it's spec sheet is closer to the Focus than I originally thought. Plus it isn't a 2000 era Focus. It looks like the CX-3 would be a fun to own, take it to the mountains for snowboarding and enjoy the trip there kind of car. Maybe it could even survive a track day or two but would be great for the commute there and back.
My 2018 CX-3 has Corksport SRI, Remus Exhaust, Corksport springs, Hardrace rear sway bar, 17lbs OZ wheels, Pilot Sports, JBR catch can, and a 93+ OV tune. I would love to have Matt drive it too bad he's moved on to bigger things.
Nice video. I will stick with my CX7. While not screaming fast, It is lowered 2 " and has some basic engine mods and a mild tune on the turbo 2.3 engine. Best part of the tune was eliminating most of the nanny restrictions Mazda put on the Turbo Engine. As I am 6'4" and 230lbs many of the newer cars and I do not get along. I just do not fit in them. You can relate I am sure. I do fit much better in the CX7 than in my Turbo Baja. Love the way it handles and stops. Now with the engine mods it goes fast enough for me and has the room inside for big dogs, kids and stuff the wife requires... I have had it since 2006 and am still loving it and do not see letting it go. Maybe a few more engine mods/hotter tune in the future. Thanks for the great car videos.
+Greig300 has nothing to do with being busy and everything to do with the UK being the most expensive possible place in the world to travel from LA. I couldn't possibly film enough videos there that would make it worthwhile, which is too bad because I love visiting.
Absolutely love Mazdas. Not a whole ton of power or torque but really light and great handling. I'm on my second Mazda and already looking forward to my third :)
Another suprisingly fun and well sorted crossover is the Kia Sportage. An Uber driver i used had one and was a really neat package in and out. Sounded almost race car'ish too.
Hey Matt have you ever done a rx8 review or driven one? I've been wanting one for awhile now and it might be my next car. I'd like your feedback on it though, thanks!
Really great video of the CX-3 from strictly a driver's point of view. I own a CX-3 Grand Touring model, which I love, and I can definitely agree on the need for a little more power for spirited driving.
Glad to see matt appreciate Mazda for what it is. The brand has been very consistent on making good handling and good feeling cars. Some people just talk shit because they are not the fastest out there.
+TheSmokingTire It has nothing to do with the review itself, usually you mention something about the owner of the car and in this one you did not so I assume it is straight from Mazda. You also reviewed the 2016 CX5. Most of the other 177 One Takes are more enthusiast cars. I appreciate what you do here on TH-cam, don't let TH-cam commentors russle your jimmies, just stick to shit I cant just go up and buy anywhere in the US for $300/month.
+Zachary Thorpe reviewing press cars is nothing new. Manufacturers loan us cars to review all the time. It's part of the business. We've been reviewing press cars for over 5 years.
+Zachary Thorpe lol so when Top Gear reviews a brand new Ferrari or Lamborghini you think they're getting paid for that? You're hilarious. They go through pretty much the same process that TST does when it gets cars like this. Manufacturer gives them the car for a few days or longer and they expect media coverage of the vehicle. Whether that coverage is positive or negative is completely up to TST or Top Gear
+Roads Untraveled They didn't force him to take the car, he voluntarily chose to take the car and chose to film this. And I chose to watch it. When a manufacturer offers you a product to test, you don't have to take it if it is not in line with what brings people to your channel. Matt Farah should be driving unique/cool cars and he should leave crap like this to autoguide.com or whatever. Consumer reviews of extraordinarily average cars is not what /Drive has been historically about.
Only 2800 pounds? Go Mazda.
You should do more of these reviews with "normal" cars. This one was amazing, good job
Mazda is really trying here, I give props.
are they?
2800 pounds is very impressive for a new car
Mazda drive so well these days
Agree, but to me they have always driven very well. My wife has been a mazda can her whole life because she liked the way they steer and don't flop over in the corners. They are great to drive, our 2016 mazda6 GT is a blast with the paddles on a canyon road. Our mazdaspeed3 was just brilliant on track days and daily driving too.
+Raymond Newbill so true man....my family and I have only purchased Mazdas since 2000 (not including my brother's FD RX7, Precidia or my Camaro) and we loved them all....currently we have a 2010+ Mazda 6 V6, CX5, CX9 and Mazda 5. Great cars, IMO nothing in their classes compares as far as sportiness and driving dynamics go....and then there's the styling :D
+Ian Townsend I remember my -99 626 that i felt more comfortable in than in many new cars that have stability control etc.
+Raymond Newbill Mazda 6 what a beautiful car & so comfortable. My dads got a Mazda 3 he's on his 3 rd one & I'm looking into getting a new Mx5
+Towel1e Like I said in a different reply, my dads had 3 Mazda 3s they also had a 626 back in the late 80s
". . . I don't really call that a crossover. . . " shhh, don't tell them it's a wagon, if you tell them these cars aren't SUVs people will stop buying them. you see everybody secretly wants a wagon but here in america wagons have a negative connotation for some reason, so we're progressively making more and more wagon like SUV "crossovers".
Oh so true. Hahaha my wife is that way. Been looking at older legacy or wrx wagons. In order for her to consider it we have to call it a hatch back
Mazda has always been about balance. Their engines are underpowered so that they don't overpower the chassis, which is turned to for crisp, light-footed handling without any harsh ride penalties. I love the look of this car but I would've liked it better as a standard height Mazda 2. It's a shame that Americans won't buy a hatchback or a wagon without 100 lbs of plastic cladding and a lift kit.
I bought a 2014 Mazda2, but man, if I could have grabbedthe restyled newer model I would have loved to. Was super disappointed they weren't bringing it back to the US. That Scion iA just isn't as cool with the fish face & sedan format. Oh well. :(
I was working in Peru for a few weeks and saw the new Mazda2 in hatch and sedan form and thought, why the hell isn't this car sold in the US??? I think they are facing pressure from Ford since they sell its platform-mate Fiesta, which in sedan form looks rather goofy.
lower the cx3 and you're good to go hahaha
mazdas paint jobs are the best now...
I've watched allot of reviews on the CX3. And surprisingly even though I know this car isn't really your thing, this review is the most fair and honest I've seen! Thanks Matt. Well played.
Also to give an idea of size, surprisingly this CX3 at 168 inches long is about 4 inches SHORTER than my 94-01 Acura Integra 2-door coupe or my wife's 96 Corolla (both 172 inches). Being able to fit in our garage is very important and I was very surprised at its relative small size and weight. 2800 lbs is only about 275 lbs heavier than my Integra which is amazing.
i'm seriously considering one of these. 4wd though, as i live in finland. Gray with gray rims would be nice
i have never liked how the 5er looks for some reason. the seating position in it is pretty awkward too, feels like you're falling forward
+Peder Hansen CX-5 AWD 2.5L (because the 2.0 version feels underpowered) would cost a lot more than a CX-3 AWD 2L. CX-3 weighs like 300-400 pounds less too. Price is a lot lower. It all depends.
Did you get one? we have meteor grey with the 18 inch wheels, very nice
not yet! gonna work some more now in the summer and get me some money. thinking white and then wrap it matte grey
oh man oh man, fancy seeing this here in my feed. I was just at the Memphis Auto Show on Sunday, saw this thing, and immediately sent my wife a few pics of it. Now we want one BAD to replace her 96 Corolla with 278K miles that she's been driving since HIGH SCHOOL in the late 90's! Neither of us have bought a new car before. And I'm usually one who hates a car payment. But man, like Matt said it's got SO MUCH for the 24K-25K price!! The LED lighting package is my favorite feature. I've been something of an automotive lighting connoisseur over the years.
damn 2800lbs for a modern car
this surprise only overweight merica and they overweight cars
Lightweight, good chassis, brakes and steering. Underpowered and you have to flog it to have fun.
So basically what you're saying is that is the 5 door, family version of a BRZ, with nicer interior amenities?
+LordAthens Or a 5 door Miata with a roof LOL
I admire that you appreciate cars at all prices, from lots of different makes. No snobbery at all and its one of the things that makes ST a joy to watch.
Those useless side cargo windows. 😂
lol
Generelly I at least try to spend as little time as possible inside the cargo space while driving ;) Seriusly though - don't see the problem. If you learn to reverse using the rear view mirrors it's a non issue. And you don't have to break your back every time you want to reverse :P
Roger Skagerström It just seems like a waste of glass. Metal could have been put there, which would increase structural strength, and would also be cheaper.
Ah yeah you mean in that sence. I think it would look stupid though. Never really liked how the Golfs look around that part for example. But that's a matter of taste :P Having both the C and D pillar so close to eachother will give plenty of rigidity though. And I thing glass is more ridigid actually - as long as it's fastened the right way.
"Who cares about throttle response when there's just not much power behind the throttle?"
That's when you need throttle response most. It provides the feeling of more power, and I'm sure everyone who buys it and enjoys driving will appreciate it.
It's a cross-over in every other country except the one that has parking spaces that would fit tanks in their local super market.....
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stopped by a mazda dealership to check out the ND miata when they first came out and ended up falling in love with the cx3, purchased one used 3 or 4 years later and i have nothing but good things to say. i think you nailed the review, low on power but for the price they're a great option for a daily car. i am a biased mazda fan boy tho
It actually sounds good! Very impressed by this thing
I'll take one that has a 2.3L turbo under the bonnet.
I thought the CX-3 was based on the Mazda2? Seems like a well thought out car that might be a fun daily.
+xkrnxboix
For about the same money you can get a Mazda3 which has about the same or better interior space and cargo room, has the option for a 2.5L engine with considerably more power, and the manual transmission. You get this car if you want a tall driving position and AWD, basically.
+zxbc That's definitely something to think about. Might be better to upgrade to a CX-5 if you want more room also. I wonder what are ground clearance of the CX-3 is compared to the Mazda3.
+zxbc
Yes you buy this car if you want the "image" of an SUV. The 3 hatchback is basically better in every way.
+Jeff K
Of course I cross shopped the mazda 3 hatchback and the GTI and there is just no comparison when it comes to interior, handling, and performance. The mazda looses in every category including price if you get the sporty 2.5L version, still a nice car though.
+xkrnxboix The CX-3 is based on a Mazda 2 platform.
It seems like Mazda is the ultimate driving machine for its price
Its small - but it's meant to be - and part of a new segment of sub-compact SUV's. Fast becoming the leader when compared to the HR-V, Trax, and others. I like it, and I know - I'm biased
Call it what you want, Matt, but this CX-3, like the Juke, HRV, Renegade etc. are all sub-compact SUV's. A Mazda2 would be a small car, this is an SUV version of the Mazda2 like a CX-5 is an SUV version of the Mazda3 and the CX-9 is a version of the Mazda6.
A juke, renegade, or HRV is noticeably bigger than the CX3. The CX3 stands less than 3 inches taller than our Fiesta. It may look like a CUV in photos, but this is a compact car on slightly oversized tires with body cladding.
+Brandon Friesen I would agree it's part of the mini-suv segment, something similar to what Chevy, Buick and a few others offer. Regardless on how you classify if, it's a neat little vehicle, not something I would want, but for the price it's pretty decent.
TheSmokingTire I worked for Mazda up until 2 months ago. It's a sub compact. That's the class Mazda even said it competes in, that's the class Motortrend and Car and Driver classify it as, and that's the class the EPA classifies it as. The Juke, HRV etc are all in the same segment. Trust me, I spent 1 straight week of training for this stuff, I know what I'm saying.
***** Too bad I actually know what I'm talking about...got any proof otherwise? Because I have at least 10 solid sources to prove it.
+Brandon Friesen I do not listen to manufacturers when it comes to classifying cars. I couldn't give less of a fuck what they call it or what they think we should call it. I call cars what they are based on common sense, excluding buzzwords or employee training programs.
Mercedes calls the CLS a coupe, and it's not a fucking coupe because it has four doors. Ditto the 6-series "Gran Coupe" from BMW, which is also, not a coupe. Mazda can call this thing whatever it wants, but when the seat height is about at my knees and I have to duck to get in the thing, that's not a crossover, or a compact SUV it's a hatchback.
This is a neat car but my fav crossover of all time was my 2003 Matrix XRS. 2800 lbs. 180hp and 8,000+ rpm 2zz.
After watching this video a few times I made my choice in 2020 and I bought my 2017 "Wazda" cx3gt great little car.
Good on gas ! Small enough to fit anywhere I live in LA parking sucks .
100000 miles later no issues what so ever. It does come with a hidden sport mode if you want a little more zoom zoom power .
I think the problem with this car is that it's clearly designed for the Europe market where handling is needed more than power. I think it's well suited to the UK for example but for the US market it isn't really even going to make a dent in the car market
I like that they still use the torque converter automatic, I'm not a fan of dual clutch because of the few annoying things about them and reliability issues...another great thing is that with no turbo, it has one less thing to break.
Its basically just a TALL compact hatchback car. Think of a 1990's Honda civic hatchback, but taller. With NO CVT, and a regular geared automatic transmission, it is one of the few small tall hatchbacks that is not DOG-SLOW with an automatic (like the Honda HR-V is.)
Listen for a few seconds with your eyes closed.....sounds like an econobox with a fart tube.
Anyways, I love the way they're (Mazda) going with the looks and quality of the vehicles. But with this and the miata, the 'missing something' is (for me anyways) a minor increase in power that could be the deal MAKER for many people.
Great episode as always,
Keep em coming!
Im in the market for a new car, and this would have been my number 1 choice, but Mazda didn't give the option of a Manual!! I hope your reading this Mazda!!!... I want one of your cars... I was considering the Mazda6 too... But then you put a stupid electronic parking brake! Damit Mazda... =(
6:56... what the hell was that sound?! Seagull?
+uNkLeRaRa4 Seriously, I was looking through the comments hoping someone had an explanation.
Haha same here! I replayed that part at least 6 times trying to find out what it was. First I thought it was a cyclist. Then I thought it was dying roadkill. Then I finally concluded that it had to be a seagull, but I'm honestly clueless, lol
I mean there was something on the road that I thought looked like an animal at that same moment, but it just seems weird that it would have been that clear on the audio.
C'mon, it was Matt making tire sounds
+Gonçalo Ferreira I think so too.
I wonder how hard would it be to transplant the Mazdaspeed3's engine package into the 4wd version of this? Lower it and you'd have a Mazda version of the Subaru WRX wagon. With a nicer interior package. The downside would be that awesome transmission probably couldn't take more power than the current engine produces now.
Hey Matt, you ever think TST will get ahold of Larry's 964? Unless you've already reviewed it which could very well be the case because, well, I'm lazy and didn't really look.
I'm due for tires on my 2016 mazda cx 3 grand touring. Aside from the Yokohama tires(which are pricey) what other brand tires to you recomend(economic)??
I can imagine hundreds of cars that are more fun AND cheaper, but it sure is a good car. Although you say it drives best at 5-7k rpm I think it sounds awful in that range. It sounds like it's overstrained and will break after 50tkm and there's too much going on with the design that wouldn't make me happy for the 24k it costs.
My apologies for a "comment before I watched the video", but just saw these at the auto show and they are SMALL inside. The back seat is tiny and the trunk is tiny. It has less-than-hatchback utility, which renders this car utterly useless in my book (even though it's otherwise quite nicely done).
Used to sell Mazdas. Amazing cars for the money.
I was kinda disappointed to see this lil guy. . BUT, that was a damn good review. I was kinda routing for it by the end. can we get a fire breathing Hennessy Venom next plz? I'm sure everyone would
hey Matt would you recommend this for a young guy that has 25k to purchase as a gateway into liking cars? I'm trying to convince my friend this would be a good car for him. Also, if this is the skyactiv-g how come it makes less than the 2.0 in the Miata?🤔
I believe that Mazda has the torque converter lock itself out at higher speeds. They started this with the Mazda6 so its actually a lot better than most auto's with the paddles.
+jaynen Yeah I've been reading their sites for the SkyActiv auto transmissions and they really maximized the threshold at which the torque converter is locked out, and I think they even use two clutch packs for even and odd gears like DCTs do. I love a good manual but the autos that come in Mazdas these days are compelling.
Matt.. Any new modified smart cars you can review? Live in Manhattan and unfortunately may need one of them.
I would be sooo stoked to swap out the 2.0 for the 2.5 turbo in my 2016 cx3 sport,,, now that would be FUN... 👍
If there were higher demand Mazda would put a manual in these which would be great I imagine. You can get the cx5 with one. I'll likely be opting for the cx5 with a manual for that exact reason.
When they sell it with the Mazdaspeed6 powertrain, I'll be interested. Snobbery aside, not too bad for a $24k compact people carrier.
How cool would a Sport Model be with a 6spd manual and wider/better tires. I would buy that for say... 26K?
Always had a soft spot for Mazda since my 1989 '121 LS Suntop' I had when I was about 13 to learn to drive/destroy on the farm. It was a well spec'd 1.3 with a good handbrake and an electric sunroof which went front to back. Needless so say they make much better cars these days.
CX-3 looks really good, I am beggining to see them in Europe and they are great for the city. Maybe the price should be a bit lower
Is there any chance the US will get the manual option? I'd love an AWD base model in stick.
Mazda creates a wonder platform, give it a try, without the Chardonnay=) ~Peace
2016 Mazda CX-3 or 2016 Subaru Crosstrek... I've been looking into the crostrek for a few months, still haven't had the time to go test drive, but I think it's going to be the one...
+Erick Morales Crosstrek is stuck with a CVT trans, whereas the CX-3 has a really nice automatic.
Ohno! I don't like the new design language at all... More eyesores on the road....
Drives nice though.
more power, Mazda
You nailed it with the Mazda stuff...
Surprisingly good automatics paired up to loud, coarse, strained "skyactiv" engines.
Cyclist was having way more fun...
so what would this car become if you lower it? would it just be a slightly smaller 3?
You haven't seen Mini Countrymans that are lowered? Now hose things are confusing.
I believe the heads up display takes has that awkward design because it's made to work with polarized glasses.
GT is a wonderful car=).........owner 2016 =) ~Peace
I have genuinely been looking at these as a budget "keep me awake on the commute to work but still be useful when I'm calling in sick". My current 2013 V6 MT Accord is really annoying as a daily. I've been thinking about relegating it to show car use and weekend fun. My 2004 SVT Focus has been completely stripped and pretty much only used for track and can only carry two at this point. I've been wondering about this CX-3 AWD for a long time. Never really thought much about the current Mazda line up other than "wow, pretty". Then my fiance got a 2015 Mazda3 base model automatic and holy cow that car is a blast to drive in a way that makes me miss the stock SVT Focus. It handled extremely well on Ortega canyon with a few other legit "fun" cars, it was comfy AF, and got 40 something MPG to LA. Now that I learned that this CX-3 is certified okay it seems like a fun purchase.
2800 lbs CX-3 vs 2800 lbs SVT Focus.
146hp/146lb-ft CX-3 vs 149hp/134lb-ft SVT Focus
AT AWD CX-3 vs MT FWD SVT Focus
Fully Independent Suspension CX-3 vs Fully Independent Suspension SVT Focus
30+ MPG CX-3 vs ~20 MPG SVT Focus
Great Interior CX-3 vs Recaro Seats SVT Focus
Mazda Legendary Chassis Tuning CX-3 vs Legendary Platform SVT Focus
~11" Front Brakes CX-3 vs 11.8" Front Brakes SVT Focus
While I know it's not going to be the buckets of fun that the SVT Focus has been over the years, it seems like it's spec sheet is closer to the Focus than I originally thought. Plus it isn't a 2000 era Focus. It looks like the CX-3 would be a fun to own, take it to the mountains for snowboarding and enjoy the trip there kind of car. Maybe it could even survive a track day or two but would be great for the commute there and back.
Why are their so many winding roads? Why not go in a straight line?
LIterally weighs the same as a boxster. What are you doing Porsche.
I watch all the Mazda ones first thanks TheSmokingTire
My 2018 CX-3 has Corksport SRI, Remus Exhaust, Corksport springs, Hardrace rear sway bar, 17lbs OZ wheels, Pilot Sports, JBR catch can, and a 93+ OV tune. I would love to have Matt drive it too bad he's moved on to bigger things.
I wonder how the AWD version does... This was a FWD model correct?
They should give it a more powerful engine or a turbo in a upper trim with AWD
The CX3 is based on the Mazda 2 not the 3..that's why it's smaller..
I enjoy an occasional regular car one take like this that's affordable for the masses. Keep them coming:)
Nice video. I will stick with my CX7. While not screaming fast, It is lowered 2 " and has some basic engine mods and a mild tune on the turbo 2.3 engine. Best part of the tune was eliminating most of the nanny restrictions Mazda put on the Turbo Engine. As I am 6'4" and 230lbs many of the newer cars and I do not get along. I just do not fit in them. You can relate I am sure. I do fit much better in the CX7 than in my Turbo Baja. Love the way it handles and stops. Now with the engine mods it goes fast enough for me and has the room inside for big dogs, kids and stuff the wife requires... I have had it since 2006 and am still loving it and do not see letting it go. Maybe a few more engine mods/hotter tune in the future.
Thanks for the great car videos.
We all know matts a busy guy... But one takes in the UK would be something I'm sure everyone would like to see one day.
+Greig300 has nothing to do with being busy and everything to do with the UK being the most expensive possible place in the world to travel from LA. I couldn't possibly film enough videos there that would make it worthwhile, which is too bad because I love visiting.
this car doesn't get the 180hp/180tq motor? :(
i know that buzziness. i have a mazda 3s--it's a momentum car.
i wonder how fast fun this car could be if it has that 2liter 4 cylinder from the 228i
the paint on the mazda changes in sun..thats cool
I respectfully disagree with your respectively :P
Absolutely love Mazdas. Not a whole ton of power or torque but really light and great handling. I'm on my second Mazda and already looking forward to my third :)
lower the car and put some nice wheels and tires and this would just be a nice little hatch
there's a Mercedes that looks exactly like this. I even bet they use the same shassis!
That sounds really gruff...bit of a shame imo.
Another suprisingly fun and well sorted crossover is the Kia Sportage. An Uber driver i used had one and was a really neat package in and out. Sounded almost race car'ish too.
Hey Matt have you ever done a rx8 review or driven one? I've been wanting one for awhile now and it might be my next car. I'd like your feedback on it though, thanks!
Really great video of the CX-3 from strictly a driver's point of view. I own a CX-3 Grand Touring model, which I love, and I can definitely agree on the need for a little more power for spirited driving.
Glad to see matt appreciate Mazda for what it is. The brand has been very consistent on making good handling and good feeling cars. Some people just talk shit because they are not the fastest out there.
It's a fun somewhat practical AWD hatchback that goes well with my Miata. I'm a happy camper with almost 3k so far.
The weight is amazing, I DO wish they would put that 2.5 turbo motor that's in the cx9 in the cx3 though.
I think some Mazda's have looked great for years. Some more than others but generally they have always been fantastically styled Imo
You sound like you truly hated every minute in this car.
I love Mazda ... 2012 Mazdaspeed, and 2015 Mazda3 5 door.
very cool car, mazdaspeed trim looks even sicker.
they need a mazdaspeed version, i could see it being decently popular! also congrats on 500k i'm sure you'll hit that in the next day or so
I would swap the engine for a Mazdaspeed 3 engine and lower the suspension, ultimate practicality.
I prefer to see normal car go fast!!! Thank u TST
Great Review, it would be cool to see you do more reviews of "everyday cars "
LONG LIVE MAZDA
BRAKES AND WEIGHT PERFECT FOR TUNERS IN THE FUTURE
Boring review stick to old cars .....zzz
Best looking, best driving small crossover on the market IMHO..
Did Mazda pay you well for this?
+Zachary Thorpe it makes no sense when people do this. Give a bad review, and you're "being honest." give a good review, and you've been paid off.
+TheSmokingTire It has nothing to do with the review itself, usually you mention something about the owner of the car and in this one you did not so I assume it is straight from Mazda. You also reviewed the 2016 CX5. Most of the other 177 One Takes are more enthusiast cars. I appreciate what you do here on TH-cam, don't let TH-cam commentors russle your jimmies, just stick to shit I cant just go up and buy anywhere in the US for $300/month.
+Zachary Thorpe reviewing press cars is nothing new. Manufacturers loan us cars to review all the time. It's part of the business. We've been reviewing press cars for over 5 years.
+Zachary Thorpe lol so when Top Gear reviews a brand new Ferrari or Lamborghini you think they're getting paid for that? You're hilarious. They go through pretty much the same process that TST does when it gets cars like this. Manufacturer gives them the car for a few days or longer and they expect media coverage of the vehicle. Whether that coverage is positive or negative is completely up to TST or Top Gear
+Roads Untraveled They didn't force him to take the car, he voluntarily chose to take the car and chose to film this. And I chose to watch it. When a manufacturer offers you a product to test, you don't have to take it if it is not in line with what brings people to your channel. Matt Farah should be driving unique/cool cars and he should leave crap like this to autoguide.com or whatever. Consumer reviews of extraordinarily average cars is not what /Drive has been historically about.
Torque Steer......there isnt any haha
They should just put their 2.5L in this
$24k MSRP? For that money, just get a Mazda3, holy crap.
+ZCherish Except the 3 doesn't have AWD. And if you get the same options in a 3, it's $30K