“My Maxda CX3 is an amazing vehicle. I love everything about it. The smaller size, the great cargo space, the comfortable seats and the integrated sound system. I would buy one again in a heartbeat!”
2016 Mazda CX-3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is an all-new model and the first CX-3 sold in the U.S. It launched below the CX-5 as Mazda’s smaller crossover.
About the 2016 Mazda CX-3
1st generation (2016-2021 U.S.), first model year.
Mazda positioned the CX-3 as a city-friendly small crossover for people who wanted SUV usefulness without giving up a car-like driving feel. The main draws were sharp styling, easy maneuverability, good fuel economy, available all-wheel drive, and an interior that felt nicer than many rivals. Compared with other subcompact crossovers, Mazda leaned more on design, driving enjoyment, and cabin quality than on maximum cargo space.
The CX-3 lineup starts with the everyday-focused Sport, while Touring adds heated seats, richer seat trim, and blind-spot monitoring. Grand Touring has the more upscale setup, including LED headlights, navigation, Bose audio, leather-and-suede seat trim, and a head-up display.
What changed, by category
Structural
The CX-3 debuts as an all-new subcompact crossover below the larger CX-5, with Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims.
Powertrain
Every 2016 CX-3 uses a 146-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Tech
A 7-inch touchscreen system with voice control and a console controller is standard on every trim, along with push-button start.
Safety
Every trim has a rearview camera. Touring and Grand Touring add blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
2016 Mazda CX-3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.0L | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.0L | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd Spt Manual | Auto, 6-Spd Spt Manual | Auto, 6-Spd Spt Manual |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 35 mpg | 35 mpg |
| Horsepower | 146 hp | 146 hp | 146 hp |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 44.5 cu-ft | 44.5 cu-ft | 42.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| LED Tail Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2016 the first U.S. model year for the Mazda CX-3?
Yes. The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is the model’s first U.S. year and launched as an all-new subcompact crossover below the CX-5.
What engine and transmission does the 2016 Mazda CX-3 have?
Every 2016 Mazda CX-3 has a 146-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Does every 2016 Mazda CX-3 have a touchscreen and rearview camera?
Yes. Every 2016 CX-3 has a 7-inch touchscreen system, voice control, a console controller, and a rearview camera.
Which 2016 Mazda CX-3 trims have blind-spot monitoring?
The 2016 CX-3 Touring and Grand Touring have blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Sport does not include those features.
How do the 2016 Mazda CX-3 trims differ?
Sport covers the core equipment, Touring adds heated seats, upgraded seat trim, and extra driver assistance, and Grand Touring adds features such as LED headlights, navigation, Bose audio, leather-and-suede seat trim, and a head-up display. All three use the same engine and automatic transmission.
2016 Mazda CX-3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Mazda CX-3.
4.2
2016 Mazda CX-3
(177 reviews)
“I love this vehicle. I spend a great deal of time in my vehicle and I find it to be comfortable, practical, and sporty all at the same time.”
“Great gas mileage, average of 33 mpg. It has a very small gas tank and poorly placed cup holders. Overall a fun car to drive.”