I've had a 2018 Sport version for a little over a year.. Best car I've ever owned. Has everything I want and nothing I don't. Have the ceramic color. Awesome car!
How many km when you purchased it? I'm looking at one now, 2019 gt just like the one in this video (and colour) in excellent condition. Has 89,000km. Carefax report is excellent...but still nervous because of the km. Also looking at a 2020 Kona Preferred . Do you still love your purchase?
The Ceramic looks SO good. That's the color I was going to buy. I almost bought one before I leased my current car. I wasn't feeling the sales team at all, so I walked away.. In a way, I'm glad I waited because this refresh is sweet. I'm definitely still considering it. The style inside and out, small size mixed with AWD are almost unbeatable for the price. It's really a stunning vehicle to look at. Thanks for the review !
That paint colour is spot-on! Really digging it. I'm really glad Mazda continues to improve their models, our episode on the 2019 CX-9 Signature goes live on Dec 31st, we get to see how they've made it better since our time with it back in January.
That's what we thought too. Some cars we did prior to the 2018 season of TestDrive were pretty rough, but we've had idiotic complaints from commenters before about the engine bay being dirty, or the carpets having some snow on them.
Just bought a 2019 mazda cx3 and love it. I do wish the navigation system was standard. I do not like having to pay an extra 530.00 for the sd card. It hugs the curves and turns on a dime. Zoom zoom
I'm surprised the rear windows are not tinted in this fully load trim. Here in Europe even middle range trims have them tinted. Plus the highest trim has parking sensors.
Was looking for this model. I went to a Mazda dealer yesterday and they only had two of these. But lots of CX-5's and 30's. I like those alloy wheels on this one though.
The CX-3 hasn't been a huge seller for Mazda, most people have taken the other subcompact crossovers in the segment due to pricing and interior space, which is why they came out with the CX-30 to fix some of those issues while keeping this on their fleet.
this car is based on mazda 2 not mazda 3 apple car play/android auto is currently available for new production model, BUT is also possible upgrade older cars at mazda dealership for 250€
We still need to take our CX-5 in for the CarPlay upgrade, seems like it's almost more work than it's worth. We had the CX-9 with factory Android Auto/CarPlay and I personally hated it.
I suspect they'll add more with the next full update for this. Mazda finally got their camera's to look good with the 2021 Mazda3 GT we just published.
This is already a very good car in this segment and price point and the Apple car play and Android auto is coming but there is one thing they need to improve in the next iteration, that is the space it's the only thing holding other buyers not to consider this car, at least an inch and a half in the leg room and same thing in the luggage area that would be a great improvement and Mazda fans will be happy for that...but I really love this car.
We're expecting to see a new CX-3 within the next model year or so. Space was the reason we went with the CX-5 over this originally, but then again we haven't driven a subcompact crossover that really had the space we needed. Kia Niro might be the only one we've driven so far that we'd actually buy.
Best SUV in the segment, hands down. Can't wait to get mine once my financing backup is approved. Mazda3 is pretty much superior in every way, BUT the CX3's AWD is the best option for areas with heavy mud or snowy conditions (like Canada), or hideous, war zone-like roads like in my country. Both are great cars, but they intended for different needs.
Now that the 2019 Mazda3 has the option for AWD could make for a very interesting rivalry between it and the CX-3 again. I prefer cars, so the Mazda3 would definitely be my pick with the AWD setup.
@@PRNTestDrive I also prefer cars, but since I drive my parents around quite often (they're very old), SUVs with higher seats are the way to go for me. By the way, have you driven the Chevy Trax before? What do you think of it?
They've been producing some excellent vehicles, and they've really been able to change our opinions/biases about the brand in general since starting TestDrive.
Not sure if thats a compact crossover or just a hatchback 🤔 still a great review sir my brother just purchased the 2019 Mazda cx9 it’s an awesome car and loaded with the latest technology Mazda are building great reliable car and they’re selling well worldwide
That they are! We had the CX-9 Signature a couple weeks back, and filmed an episode on it to wrap up 2018. We're looking forward to get it published on the 31st!
They don't feel like they'll hold anything very well. Much like the 360º cameras on the CX-9, the cup holders here feel like a feature to look good only on paper.
@@PRNTestDrive i have had zero issues with the cup holders and the fact that t gives you the option for 3 size cups is huge plus compared to some cars thats only one size, i use it for my shaker bottle, coffee cup or big mug and holds all of them just fine no issue
Sure someone else mentioned this, but this has exact same ground clearance as the Mazda3. What could they do to improve it? Lots. Fix the armrest/cupholder situation. Give it more space (however you have to unless they're committed to 2 seat sports CUV.) Offer the manual on more than the base (I know sales don't support it, but aside from hill assist it's a good tranny). I nearly bought one but I went down a different path instead.
We're sorry to hear that, do you know how it was stolen? We've watched a number of videos about thieves using code scanners to intercept the vehicle's remote codes, but usually that's on high value vehicles like Escalades.
@@PRNTestDrive they scanned the key using special box for it. It was parked by home. It happened last Month. I had installed some tracker under seat so company n Police tracked it but too late. It was already in pieces. :( my seats was found at some buyer..
Good going-over. This car is a good daily driver candidate going from Point A to Point B. If you have more pressing needs, then this small mover is not for you or was it intended to be.
What Brand/Size Are Those Winter Tires On That Mazda? I'm Looking To get One Of These Or a 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring AWD Once My 2016 MX-5 Gets Paid Off, Thanks In Advance...
I believe they were Bridgestone Blizzaks as Mazda usually uses those on their press vehicles. We did publish a video last year about winter tires for the CX-5 and CX-9 if you're interested: th-cam.com/video/p7Ej0Pb_kYM/w-d-xo.html
@@PRNTestDrive I just got a CX 3 Grand Touring WITH Premium Package yesterday and it doesn't have that :(, however my CX 5 from 2016 had it, so now I have issue opening the garage door, looking on Ebay stuff...
The CX-3 and out-going Mazda3 both use this setup, I think it's more affordable over the windshield projected versions which is likely why they went this route.
Driving it for 2 months now and loving it except for: - the central console (between the front seats space) that is just not convenient: no space for a big phone, no rubbish bin receptacle, useless cup holder, too small armrest - defogging takes really a lot of time - at high speed the water spread is useless on the windshield - very nice tick rubber map (in the booth) bought extra (Mazda product) but too tight fit (in the corners) to lift with one hand when you want to use the space below.
The centre area has been the weak spot for the CX-3 since it launched, we're glad they improved it by adding the arm rest, without it things were even worse.
now that 2019Mazda3 will be offered with AWD and will have more HP, better fuel economy, and a larger interior for a similar price. I wonder how mazda will change the cx-3 in future generations to compete with themselves lol.
That's certainly a good question, but people seem to want crossovers even if they're just in-name-only. The Hyundai Kona we featured earlier this year wasn't the best in the segment, but they sell well, especially the FWD-only models here in Quebec. I personally would take an AWD Mazda3 over the CX-3 every day of the week.
@@PRNTestDrive I agree, especially considering the cx-3 has what 1/4 - 1/2 higher ground clearance? I've heard a rumor that the new CX-3 will be based off the mz3 platform, to compete with the crosstrek. Now that would be on my short list of test drives as my main issue with the crosstrek is the low hp plus bad transmission, both in manual and cvt. 190HP 6speed manual lifted mazda 3 hatchback would be the king of my jobsites
PRN_TestDrive, agree with your opinions about the CX3 vs the Kona...we were in market for subcompact CUV and came down to Kona and CX3...didn’t like the others due to CVT or no AWD available (C-HR) and halogen headlights (come on its already 2019). Ended up buying CX3 due to its looks, handling, nimbleness and features plus reliability (being a Mazda owner already) also got a good deal from dealership. Kona was nice too with tons of features and good value for money but too much hard plastics inside and couldn’t take the weird headlight design and halogen headlights on the luxury trim we were considering.
It's definitely on the snug side, but similar to the Hyundai Kona, Honda HR-V, or Toyota C-HR in terms of interior space. We've got the Volvo XC40 this week, although it's in the luxury class, the interior space makes this CX-3 feel like a shoebox.
nice little crossover, but for such a size, the price and the interior space is not so good for my opinion, the only worth version is the ultra basic trim, with manual 2wd 120hp engine, for sale around 16500 € in germany back then, i considered it for a possible car to buy
That often happens when we film, especially in the winter where we have to leave the car running during the hour+ it takes us to film all the b-roll we need.
People seem to feel that the CX-5 is on the smaller end of the compact segment, it's a good step up for those looking for more power and extra space over the CX-3, though I believe the Japanese CX-4 is a coupe style crossover, so I don't think Mazda will introduce something in between.
It wasn't/isn't ideal to film there, but we're trying to cram in as many new vehicles as we can before the 3 week break, had to do another run-and-gun style shoot this morning with a car up in Laval.
No android auto or apple car play?! Really? Common mazda. An easy fix. Get with the program. Btw, those of us in the states bordering ont and que also pronounce it maazda. It’s a regional accent, eh?
Android Auto & Apple CarPlay are technically available, it just requires an install from the dealer. We had the 2019 CX-9 the week after we filmed this and it came included. We talk about it quite a bit in that episode, it goes live on December 31st!
Most people can't fit in the back seat to be honest. We had it for a weekend back when the first model launched and getting our daughter's car seat in the back was pretty tight.
I've had a 2018 Sport version for a little over a year.. Best car I've ever owned. Has everything I want and nothing I don't. Have the ceramic color. Awesome car!
This paint colour looks really good on the CX-3!
The shot of the CX-3 driving in the snow is fantastic.
Credit to Mazda Canada for those excellent video clips provided to us journalists, they looked great with the content we filmed ourselves.
I just bought a used 2019 cx3 gt and I absolutely love it!
Glad to hear it!
How many km when you purchased it? I'm looking at one now, 2019 gt just like the one in this video (and colour) in excellent condition. Has 89,000km. Carefax report is excellent...but still nervous because of the km. Also looking at a 2020 Kona Preferred .
Do you still love your purchase?
The Ceramic looks SO good. That's the color I was going to buy. I almost bought one before I leased my current car. I wasn't feeling the sales team at all, so I walked away.. In a way, I'm glad I waited because this refresh is sweet. I'm definitely still considering it. The style inside and out, small size mixed with AWD are almost unbeatable for the price. It's really a stunning vehicle to look at. Thanks for the review !
That paint colour is spot-on! Really digging it. I'm really glad Mazda continues to improve their models, our episode on the 2019 CX-9 Signature goes live on Dec 31st, we get to see how they've made it better since our time with it back in January.
Are you Serious? People complaining about a car being dirty in the winter? REALITY FOLKS.
That's what we thought too. Some cars we did prior to the 2018 season of TestDrive were pretty rough, but we've had idiotic complaints from commenters before about the engine bay being dirty, or the carpets having some snow on them.
Ikr. I thought the presenter was joking! Dirty or clean...I AM GOING TO BUY THIS CAR WHEN I GET MY TAX REFUND!!!!
Only Mazda gets dirtier in the winter compared to other brands :) .... people are crazy. They talk nonsense just because they hate the brand
Just bought a 2019 mazda cx3 and love it. I do wish the navigation system was standard. I do not like having to pay an extra 530.00 for the sd card. It hugs the curves and turns on a dime. Zoom zoom
Glad to hear you’re enjoying yours!
I'm surprised the rear windows are not tinted in this fully load trim. Here in Europe even middle range trims have them tinted. Plus the highest trim has parking sensors.
We seem to get less features over here, likely in order to keep the cost/MSRP at a certain point.
Was looking for this model. I went to a Mazda dealer yesterday and they only had two of these. But lots of CX-5's and 30's. I like those alloy wheels on this one though.
The CX-3 hasn't been a huge seller for Mazda, most people have taken the other subcompact crossovers in the segment due to pricing and interior space, which is why they came out with the CX-30 to fix some of those issues while keeping this on their fleet.
this car is based on mazda 2 not mazda 3
apple car play/android auto is currently available for new production model, BUT is also possible upgrade older cars at mazda dealership for 250€
We still need to take our CX-5 in for the CarPlay upgrade, seems like it's almost more work than it's worth. We had the CX-9 with factory Android Auto/CarPlay and I personally hated it.
I think I would buy steel rims and winter tires if I still lived in Québec. Change the in late November and early April.
I like it, I wish they had more cameras, i.e. like the Honda Accord's lane change camera, or the Nissan's 360 cam
I suspect they'll add more with the next full update for this. Mazda finally got their camera's to look good with the 2021 Mazda3 GT we just published.
This is already a very good car in this segment and price point and the Apple car play and Android auto is coming but there is one thing they need to improve in the next iteration, that is the space it's the only thing holding other buyers not to consider this car, at least an inch and a half in the leg room and same thing in the luggage area that would be a great improvement and Mazda fans will be happy for that...but I really love this car.
We're expecting to see a new CX-3 within the next model year or so. Space was the reason we went with the CX-5 over this originally, but then again we haven't driven a subcompact crossover that really had the space we needed. Kia Niro might be the only one we've driven so far that we'd actually buy.
Best SUV in the segment, hands down. Can't wait to get mine once my financing backup is approved. Mazda3 is pretty much superior in every way, BUT the CX3's AWD is the best option for areas with heavy mud or snowy conditions (like Canada), or hideous, war zone-like roads like in my country. Both are great cars, but they intended for different needs.
Now that the 2019 Mazda3 has the option for AWD could make for a very interesting rivalry between it and the CX-3 again. I prefer cars, so the Mazda3 would definitely be my pick with the AWD setup.
@@PRNTestDrive I also prefer cars, but since I drive my parents around quite often (they're very old), SUVs with higher seats are the way to go for me. By the way, have you driven the Chevy Trax before? What do you think of it?
The Trax hasn’t been on the press fleet here, but if I see it offered I’ll try to book it!
Does it have paddle shifters?
I don't believe so.
I LOVE that you love Mazda. 😣
They've been producing some excellent vehicles, and they've really been able to change our opinions/biases about the brand in general since starting TestDrive.
Not sure if thats a compact crossover or just a hatchback 🤔 still a great review sir my brother just purchased the 2019 Mazda cx9 it’s an awesome car and loaded with the latest technology Mazda are building great reliable car and they’re selling well worldwide
That they are! We had the CX-9 Signature a couple weeks back, and filmed an episode on it to wrap up 2018. We're looking forward to get it published on the 31st!
@@PRNTestDrive i can't wait for that to happen thanks i hope you can review some pick up truck someday maybe the all new Ram Rebel
Cup holder under the armrest is a fail for me. This is the set up in my car and I will never have that again.
They don't feel like they'll hold anything very well. Much like the 360º cameras on the CX-9, the cup holders here feel like a feature to look good only on paper.
@@PRNTestDrive i have had zero issues with the cup holders and the fact that t gives you the option for 3 size cups is huge plus compared to some cars thats only one size, i use it for my shaker bottle, coffee cup or big mug and holds all of them just fine no issue
Nice video man! Its based on a Mazda 2 not a 3 btw.
That I think is going to be added to my collection soon ...
It's a really good little crossover!
Sure someone else mentioned this, but this has exact same ground clearance as the Mazda3.
What could they do to improve it? Lots. Fix the armrest/cupholder situation. Give it more space (however you have to unless they're committed to 2 seat sports CUV.) Offer the manual on more than the base (I know sales don't support it, but aside from hill assist it's a good tranny). I nearly bought one but I went down a different path instead.
Out of curiosity what path did you end up taking, another subcompact crossover or something completely different?
hey man good stuff amazing review
Glad you liked it! Wanted to give some light to some of the less 'exciting' cars.
I love this car. I was driving this car last 1.5 year till it was stolen :( the best car i ever had but security bad...
We're sorry to hear that, do you know how it was stolen? We've watched a number of videos about thieves using code scanners to intercept the vehicle's remote codes, but usually that's on high value vehicles like Escalades.
@@PRNTestDrive they scanned the key using special box for it. It was parked by home. It happened last Month. I had installed some tracker under seat so company n Police tracked it but too late. It was already in pieces. :( my seats was found at some buyer..
@@DeeDee-kv2lj Where are you from? Here in Poland Mazdas get stolen too.
Good going-over. This car is a good daily driver candidate going from Point A to Point B. If you have more pressing needs, then this small mover is not for you or was it intended to be.
Fair enough! It definitely is on the smaller side of the segment, one of the reasons Mazda brought the CX-30 into the market.
What Brand/Size Are Those Winter Tires On That Mazda? I'm Looking To get One Of These Or a 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring AWD Once My 2016 MX-5 Gets Paid Off, Thanks In Advance...
I believe they were Bridgestone Blizzaks as Mazda usually uses those on their press vehicles. We did publish a video last year about winter tires for the CX-5 and CX-9 if you're interested: th-cam.com/video/p7Ej0Pb_kYM/w-d-xo.html
I don’t get why all the reviews on the 2019 say there’s no Apple CarPlay when I own a 2019 and I have Apple CarPlay
Some of them shipped without Apple CarPlay from the factory, meaning you have to go to the dealer to get it installed.
FYI, the rear view mirror that doesn't have the garage door opener, even on GT with premium package! :(
Some manufacturers seem to have it on their subcompacts, some don't. It's still a premium feature it seems.
@@PRNTestDrive I just got a CX 3 Grand Touring WITH Premium Package yesterday and it doesn't have that :(, however my CX 5 from 2016 had it, so now I have issue opening the garage door, looking on Ebay stuff...
Mazdas do have stop start technology, (i-Stop) but it's just not offered in North America.
It’s probably the one feature we don’t get here that can stay that way!
@@PRNTestDrive 😁
omg he is flying in that snow
Wonder why they didn't do the heads up display projected onto the windshield (like the cx5)
The CX-3 and out-going Mazda3 both use this setup, I think it's more affordable over the windshield projected versions which is likely why they went this route.
$
How is the frontseats in 2019 cx3 touring?
I had no complaints about it, tight for someone like me but comparable in the segment.
Driving it for 2 months now and loving it except for:
- the central console (between the front seats space) that is just not convenient: no space for a big phone, no rubbish bin receptacle, useless cup holder, too small armrest
- defogging takes really a lot of time
- at high speed the water spread is useless on the windshield
- very nice tick rubber map (in the booth) bought extra (Mazda product) but too tight fit (in the corners) to lift with one hand when you want to use the space below.
The centre area has been the weak spot for the CX-3 since it launched, we're glad they improved it by adding the arm rest, without it things were even worse.
RE: defogging
Have you tried turning on your AC with your heat cranked? It defog the cabin faster.
now that 2019Mazda3 will be offered with AWD and will have more HP, better fuel economy, and a larger interior for a similar price. I wonder how mazda will change the cx-3 in future generations to compete with themselves lol.
That's certainly a good question, but people seem to want crossovers even if they're just in-name-only. The Hyundai Kona we featured earlier this year wasn't the best in the segment, but they sell well, especially the FWD-only models here in Quebec. I personally would take an AWD Mazda3 over the CX-3 every day of the week.
@@PRNTestDrive I agree, especially considering the cx-3 has what 1/4 - 1/2 higher ground clearance? I've heard a rumor that the new CX-3 will be based off the mz3 platform, to compete with the crosstrek. Now that would be on my short list of test drives as my main issue with the crosstrek is the low hp plus bad transmission, both in manual and cvt. 190HP 6speed manual lifted mazda 3 hatchback would be the king of my jobsites
PRN_TestDrive, agree with your opinions about the CX3 vs the Kona...we were in market for subcompact CUV and came down to Kona and CX3...didn’t like the others due to CVT or no AWD available (C-HR) and halogen headlights (come on its already 2019). Ended up buying CX3 due to its looks, handling, nimbleness and features plus reliability (being a Mazda owner already) also got a good deal from dealership. Kona was nice too with tons of features and good value for money but too much hard plastics inside and couldn’t take the weird headlight design and halogen headlights on the luxury trim we were considering.
Hopefully they make more room in the back seats and trunk
Nice looking but seems small. I would probably move to a larger vehicle.
It's definitely on the snug side, but similar to the Hyundai Kona, Honda HR-V, or Toyota C-HR in terms of interior space. We've got the Volvo XC40 this week, although it's in the luxury class, the interior space makes this CX-3 feel like a shoebox.
It is small. It is a mazda 2, really. Just lifted
Beautiful
We think so too!
nice little crossover, but for such a size, the price and the interior space is not so good
for my opinion, the only worth version is the ultra basic trim, with manual 2wd 120hp engine, for sale around 16500 € in germany
back then, i considered it for a possible car to buy
They're pretty popular here, I think Mazda is leading the sales for the segment, likely only being beaten by Hyundai with the Kona.
@@PRNTestDrive except the Kona looks absolutely hideous.
I agree, personally I don't understand how it's selling so well, the CX-3 would be my pick before the Kona, and the Kia Niro being my top pick.
This is sort of like a raised corolla
8:30 Did he just say he had "Joker homo" tyres on the car?
no
@@PRNTestDrive Well, it sure sounded like it. Maybe work on your pronunciation mate.
It is indeed Mazda, only Americans say Marzdar ...
"Big man in a little Car".... lol some of you will get it ;)
17:47 - AVG 17,9L/100km? :O
That often happens when we film, especially in the winter where we have to leave the car running during the hour+ it takes us to film all the b-roll we need.
Woah this car hard as fck for a mazda is thus car in USA ?
It should be! I believe Mazda has the same models throughout North America.
Little more room inside and about 180hp to 220hp and it would sell like hotcakes. 2.0 turbo...
People seem to feel that the CX-5 is on the smaller end of the compact segment, it's a good step up for those looking for more power and extra space over the CX-3, though I believe the Japanese CX-4 is a coupe style crossover, so I don't think Mazda will introduce something in between.
It sort of looks like the south shore, not the island of Montreal.
This was in Pointe-Claire actually!
10tenman10 yeah. Looks like autoroute 20 or there abouts
It wasn't/isn't ideal to film there, but we're trying to cram in as many new vehicles as we can before the 3 week break, had to do another run-and-gun style shoot this morning with a car up in Laval.
No android auto or apple car play?! Really? Common mazda. An easy fix. Get with the program. Btw, those of us in the states bordering ont and que also pronounce it maazda. It’s a regional accent, eh?
Android Auto & Apple CarPlay are technically available, it just requires an install from the dealer. We had the 2019 CX-9 the week after we filmed this and it came included. We talk about it quite a bit in that episode, it goes live on December 31st!
PRN_TestDrive Will the apple CarPlay available to install in US Mazda dealer?
Sam Tarly
Do not like the side protector
Too large
I wish mazda could improve it
Fair enough
I own this car... the ride is very very nice and the audio is very very nice, but the space is very very tiny. fat guy cant fit in the back seat.
Most people can't fit in the back seat to be honest. We had it for a weekend back when the first model launched and getting our daughter's car seat in the back was pretty tight.
PRN_TestDrive i live in asia. People are smaller here so... yeah it will be tighter there.
TG
True
B
Z
Terrible review!! Get your facts right
LOL alright pal.