“My Mazda CX-3 is a very reliable vehicle. It has smooth acceleration and a quickness in maneuvering through traffic. Great safety features.”
2020 Mazda CX-3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
For 2020, the Mazda CX-3’s biggest change is that its full driver-assistance suite became standard as the U.S. lineup shifted to a single Sport trim. This is a trim and equipment update rather than a redesign, and the engine and transmission carry over.
About the 2020 Mazda CX-3
1st generation (2016-2021 U.S.), post-2019 refresh; 2020 was the second-to-last U.S. model year.
Mazda positioned the CX-3 as a city-focused subcompact crossover with a small footprint, flowing exterior design and more engaging road manners than a typical small utility vehicle. Its core appeal was combining easy urban use with a premium-feeling cabin and straightforward driving position. For 2020, broad standard safety and convenience equipment strengthened that identity, while FWD and AWD versions served commuters who wanted either efficiency-focused simplicity or added foul-weather traction.
The sole Sport trim serves as the complete 2020 CX-3 rather than a stripped-down entry model. It pairs a 148-hp 2.0-liter engine with a six-speed automatic and includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a head-up display, automatic climate control and a broad set of driver aids. Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions use the same engine and transmission.
What changed, by category
Styling
LED headlights, taillights and daytime running lights became standard, along with rain-sensing windshield wipers. The body design did not change.
Safety
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning and automatic high beams became standard.
Tech
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a head-up display and automatic climate control became standard.
2020 Mazda CX-3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive w/Manual & Sport Modes |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 29 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 148 hp |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 42.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Alarm System | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Navigation System | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2020 Mazda CX-3?
The biggest change is that the full driver-assistance suite became standard. The U.S. range was also reduced to one well-equipped Sport trim.
How many trims does the 2020 Mazda CX-3 have?
The 2020 Mazda CX-3 has one U.S. trim: Sport. The Base, Touring and Grand Touring trims from 2019 are no longer in the lineup.
Which safety features became standard on the 2020 Mazda CX-3?
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning and automatic high beams became standard for 2020. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also standard equipment on the Sport trim.
Does the 2020 Mazda CX-3 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard on the 2020 CX-3, along with a 7-inch touchscreen and a head-up display.
Did the 2020 Mazda CX-3 get a new engine or redesign?
No. The 2020 CX-3 keeps the 148-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic, with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Its body and underlying structure did not receive a redesign.
2020 Mazda CX-3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Mazda CX-3.
3.9
2020 Mazda CX-3
(51 reviews)
“To have a good, reliable, dependable, clean and attractive car is one of the greatest delights of my life. Thanks Mazda.”
“Very comfortable, great handling and gas mileage. I love it despite that awful cup holders.”