If the Honda HR-V has not successfully attract you, it is then time to take a look at the Mazda CX-3. Yes, it is smaller and more expensive than the highly successful HR-V, but Mazda is not in a rush to overtake its competitors, yet it is here to offer the best of the B-Segment SUV, which is equipped with a 2-litre Skyactiv-G engine, mated to a 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive gearbox. With 146hp/192Nm of power, it is the best in class.
| Mazda CX-3 | Honda HR-V | Peugeot 2008 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 146HP/192Nm | 140HP/172Nm | 120HP/145Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | CVT | 4-speed |
| Engine Capacity | 2.0 | 1.8 | 1.6 |
| Length (mm) | 4275 | 4294 | 4159 |
| Width (mm) | 1765 | 1772 | 1739 |
| Height (mm) | 1550 | 1605 | 1556 |
| Wheel | 18" | 16" | 16" |
| Price (with insurance) | 135k | 121k | 120k |
The CX-3 is based on the Mazda 2's platform, thus its compact size. The design of the CX-3 is among the best, carrying the Mazda's "Kodo - Soul of Motion" language. If it could hit the selling chart, CKD version will be considered and could bring down the price to enable it direct competing against the HR-V.
The worry now is that the low selling price of the CX-5 (basic model start from RM129k), could be the CX-3 biggest competitor. Though the CX-3 are equipped with better specifications, such as combination leather seats, LED headlamps with AFS (Adaptive Front Lighting - that enhanced nighttime illumination by moving up to 15-degree in the direction of your turn), head-up-display, sunroof, and the MZD Connect 7" Infotainment system, the CX-5 is still a larger SUV, if size matter for those looking at a new car. The boot space of the CX-3 is pathetically tiny, in which the HR-V is a better design, especially the Honda Ultraseat is part of the HR-V package.
The interior of the CX-3 are similar to the Mazda 2, as well as the new MX-5, with the nicely hidden aircon vents in the center, with classic "aircraft-engine-look" round vents. Quality is always high for a car imported from Japan, and Bermaz is wise not to bring in units from the Tomyam-land. However, if it were from the border, the CX-3 could sell at a lower price. For now, it is a premium B-Segment SUV.
Some might think will the 18" wheels be too huge for a car of such size? But no, the CX-3 looks fabulous in its large size shoes, and the full 48-litre fuel tank could easily propel for 600km. The Skyactiv-G vehicles are categorized as EEV, but can Bermaz passes down the incentive to the consumers instead! The sunroof though not too suitable for our weather, is part of the highly equipped CX-3. There is always a cover to block off the sun, or tint it to extreme dark with good protection if you prefer to see the sun during the day.
One important feature that is lacking in the CX-3 is the auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The conventional rear-view mirror here does make the car feel incomplete, especially the ugly night mode flip-style-switch. The big black dotted patch behind the rear-view mirror is a plus point for those that want to have the SmartTag mounted. Make sure you do not tint this portion to avoid disappointment while passing through the toll gate. The black dotted patch is design for such purpose, yet most tinting "sifu" will cover it up as well. By the way, for those not good in parking, it is equipped with a rear-view camera and sensors.
Waiting time is low, and the CX-3 could be available with less than 2 months of wait time. Mazda offers 3-year manufacturer warranty and 3-year service package with the purchase price. Having dilemma right? The CX-3 looks good, highly-equipped, yet some some missing features. It is small, yet more expensive than its sibling CX-5. So how? It is not a car for big family, and it is a lifestyle mini-SUV. Would suggest you arrange a test drive, feel it for yourself. CX-3 shall not disappoint for those who like to drive and feel the car. In fact, Mazda's Jibba-Ittai has always present in its vehicles, not limited to the MX-5!
Some might think will the 18" wheels be too huge for a car of such size? But no, the CX-3 looks fabulous in its large size shoes, and the full 48-litre fuel tank could easily propel for 600km. The Skyactiv-G vehicles are categorized as EEV, but can Bermaz passes down the incentive to the consumers instead! The sunroof though not too suitable for our weather, is part of the highly equipped CX-3. There is always a cover to block off the sun, or tint it to extreme dark with good protection if you prefer to see the sun during the day.
One important feature that is lacking in the CX-3 is the auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The conventional rear-view mirror here does make the car feel incomplete, especially the ugly night mode flip-style-switch. The big black dotted patch behind the rear-view mirror is a plus point for those that want to have the SmartTag mounted. Make sure you do not tint this portion to avoid disappointment while passing through the toll gate. The black dotted patch is design for such purpose, yet most tinting "sifu" will cover it up as well. By the way, for those not good in parking, it is equipped with a rear-view camera and sensors.
