The 2021 Mazda CX-3 retains many signature technologies from the previous year, including the SKYACTIV-G powertrain. Voted the IIHS Top Safety Pick+, this model has lots of sophisticated technologies with the i-ACTIVSENSE label. The MAZDA CONNECT multimedia system has also received minor updates for a better driving experience.
Style
The 2021 CX-3 is a subcompact crossover SUV with four standard doors and an adjustable liftgate. Available only in the Sport edition, this urban-optimized vehicle has five seats. Up to seven paint colors are optional for this lightweight family car, including Soul Red and Deep Crystal Blue. All five seats are covered in black cloth that's easy to clean. This sporty model also has a black center console with knee pads to protect the driver and front occupant.
Designed to mimic the appearance of a shark's fin, a slanted antenna is mounted on the car's rooftop. A rear roofline spoiler also accentuates the car's sporty profile. Featuring a bright finish, the dual-exhaust outlets also emphasize the vehicle's sporty character. Additionally, the side body garnish has a black finish to contrast the body paint.
Performance
The 2021 CX-3's 2.0 L turbocharged engine includes the latest SKYACTIV-G technology. Paired with variable valve timing, the turbo powertrain generates up to 148 horsepower at 6,000 RPM. Using Advanced Direct Injection, the I-4 gas engine delivers 146 pound-feet of peak torque at 2,800 RPM.
This subcompact Mazda crossover SUV offers best-in-class handling thanks to the SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS technology. With a boost from the G-Vectoring Control function, the vehicle navigates corners and makes sharp turns with precision. Rain or shine, the i-Activ All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system keeps the 2021 CX-3 balanced on the road.
Fuel Economy
When rolling on a front-wheel drive system, the 2021 CX-3 gets up to 34 MPG on the highway and 29 MPG in the city. A 12.7-gallon fuel tank is paired with the FWD configuration. When equipped with the i-Activ AWD system, the vehicle's gas mileage decreases by up to 2 MPG in the city and on the highway. The advanced AWD is paired with an 11.9-gallon fuel tank. Additionally, this athletic crossover SUV meets the latest federal ULEV125 regulations for emissions.
Interior
The 2021 CX-3 has an automatic climate control system with a cabin air filter that removes pollen and dust. It's also possible to ventilate the cabin by opening the power windows, which include one-touch up/down controls on the driver's side. Rear heating ducts keep up to three rear passengers comfortable on a chilly day. A timer also automatically turns off the rear window defogger.
This five-seat Mazda crossover SUV has lots of other convenient amenities, such as front cupholders, a center armrest and cargo area lighting. A glove compartment and seatback pocket on the front passenger's side provide additional storage space for small items. An electronic key fob supports the Remote Keyless Entry function, which automatically turns on the welcome lighting upon the driver's approach.
Electronic Technology
Measuring 7 inches wide, a color monitor with a touch-responsive interface is installed inside the 2021 CX-3. This crisp display is part of the MAZDA CONNECT multimedia console, which is designed for smartphone users. Thanks to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, it should be easy to view external mobile apps on the infotainment screen. Anyone with the latest iPhone can also import custom apps into the Apple CarPlay suite.
This subcompact Mazda model comes with the Multifunction Commander Control in the center console for easy browsing of the infotainment software. It's also possible to access the MAZDA CONNECT platform through simple voice commands. The 2021 CX-3 offers more than 1,000 total music channels that can be played on a six-speaker audio system. From Aha and Pandora to SiriusXM and Stitcher, there are seemingly endless entertainment options inside the cabin. Songs can also be imported through an auxiliary jack, a USB data port or Bluetooth streaming.
Conveniently positioned in the driver's field of view, the Active Driving Display is another sophisticated visual technology that's installed inside this sporty Mazda model. Black instrument gauges with white letters and silver accents are optimized for good visibility during the day or at night.
Exterior
The 2021 CX-3 boasts front LED headlights, which are adjusted by the Auto-Leveling function. The High Beam Control immediately reacts to any lighting from oncoming vehicles. Thanks to the class-exclusive Adaptive Front-Lighting technology, the driver will see corners and curves better at night. Additionally, this subcompact Mazda crossover SUV has power side mirrors with integrated turn signals to alert other motorists.
Safety
Designed to prevent sudden rolling on a steep slope, the Hill Launch Assist is standard on the 2021 CX-3. Some other mechanical functions that balance this subcompact Mazda car on the road include the Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control. The driver will also get lots of accident-prevention features from the i-ACTIVSENSE group.
This five-seat crossover SUV has the Smart City Brake Support, which may prevent front-end collisions with cars on urban streets. In fact, the forward-facing camera and other sensors are sophisticated enough to detect pedestrians at night. The 2021 CX-3 includes the Mazda Radar Cruise Control that adjusts the following distances in response to real-time traffic patterns.
Available in a single model, the 2021 Mazda CX-3 is a lightweight crossover SUV that's designed for urban drivers. From the turbocharged SKYACTIV-G engine to the i-Activ AWD system, this subcompact model has several high-performance features.
Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:
Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here.)
Note: All Mazda CX-3 MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.
A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.
