PIMS 2016: Mazda brings subcompact crossover CX-3

Mazda Philippines has brought the CX-3 at the 6th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS). It features the brand's Kodo: Soul of Motion design and SkyActiv engine.  

Set to rival the likes of the Nissan Juke, Chevrolet Trax, and the Ford EcoSport, the Japan-made CX-3 features an aggressive and bold exterior. Overall, it looks like the little brother of the CX-5.

Up front, this subcompact crossover is fitted with a wide grille, a large bumper, and sharp-looking headlights with LED lighting assembly. Turning at the side, the CX-3 is characterized by smooth lines, prominent wheel arches, a sloping roofline, and a blacked out D-pillar.

On the other hand, the rear has distinctive wraparound taillights, a roof-mounted spoiler, a shark-fin antenna, and dual exhaust pipes. It is finished off with a set of 5-spoke 18-inch wheels (on top-of-the-line variant).

Inside, the CX-3 has a two-tone interior trim along with piano black and metallic accents. The interior also features a 3-spoke steering wheel with multi-function buttons, leather seats, a 7-inch touchscreen, MZD connect system with rotary knob which allows the driver to control the infotainment system.

In addition, the CX-3 is equipped with a Bose entertainment system with 7 speakers and an Active Driving Display (or Heads Up Display), placed at the top of the instrument cluster. It is a pop-up display that indicates the vehicle’s speed. Through this, the driver would be aware of its current speed without shifting his/her focus away from the road. Safety-wise, it has Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), and 6 airbags.

The CX-3 is powered by a 2.0L SkyActive gasoline engine that delivers 148 hp and 192 Nm of torque. It is then mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It also comes with an i-STOP engine (start/stop) system to yield better fuel economy according to Mazda. Of note, the top-of-the-line CX-3 variant is the only subcompact crossover in the local market to feature an All Wheel Drive (AWD) system, designed to provide better traction on varying road conditions.

The CX-3 is available in 3 variants – Pro (P1,280,000), Sport (P1,380,000), and AWD Activ (P1,480,000). The Pro variant comes in Crystal White Pearl and Dynamic Blue exterior paint; while the Sport in Crystal White Pearl, Soul Red, Jet Black, and Titanium Flash; and the AWD Activ adds Ceramic finish to its 5 exterior paint palette.   

For more information about the Mazda CX-3, visit the AutoDeal Car Guide.