“Best looking in its category. Slightly underpowered but well handling. Noisy inside the cabin and a bit cramped.”
Mazda CX-3: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 13, 2026
The Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact SUV sold in the U.S. from 2016 through 2021. It is known for city-friendly size, responsive road manners, and a cabin that feels more upscale than many small SUVs.
The CX-3 has always blended small-SUV practicality with Mazda’s focus on contemporary design and engaging handling. Rather than feeling like a bare-bones entry model, it emphasized a richer cabin and useful standard features. Updates over its run made it quieter and smoother while gradually expanding its standard safety technology.
Strengths
- Its small footprint makes it easy to place on crowded streets and in tight parking spaces.
- The steering and suspension were tuned to make everyday driving feel responsive rather than dull.
- Its design and cabin have a more upscale feel than many entry-level small SUVs.
- Safety equipment grew stronger over time, with automatic emergency braking standard from 2018 and a broader driver-assistance suite standard by 2020.
- Fuel economy is well suited to commuting; the 2021 front-wheel-drive model was rated at 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Who it's for
The CX-3 best fits a solo driver, couple, or small household that spends much of its time in town. Its compact footprint suits tight streets and parking spaces, while its five-seat layout still leaves room for occasional passengers. Buyers who regularly carry adults in back or need generous family cargo space may prefer a larger SUV.
Mazda CX-3 lineup
Sport is the core CX-3 and the trim to pick when straightforward value matters most; by 2020, it was also the only trim and came with a much broader set of standard comfort, connectivity, and safety features. On earlier models, Touring is the middle step for added everyday comfort and convenience. Grand Touring sits at the top of those earlier lineups and is the better fit for shoppers seeking the CX-3’s most upscale presentation. The differences are mainly in features and cabin finish because the trims shared the same basic engine and automatic transmission.
Mazda CX-3 generations
From 2016 to 2021, the CX-3 spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2016.
1st Generation (2016–2021)
The CX-3 arrived as Mazda’s subcompact crossover with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic, and front- or all-wheel drive. A 2019 refresh revised the styling, cabin, ride, and engine tuning, but the basic design remained unchanged through its final U.S. model year.
42 In Stock
2021
Night pedestrian detection was added to the standard low-speed automatic emergency braking system, and the LED headlights gained improved automatic operation.
2020Trim changes
The range was reduced to one Sport trim. The driver-assistance suite, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a head-up display, automatic climate control, LED exterior lighting, and rain-sensing wipers became standard.
2019Mid-cycle update
Refreshed exterior details joined a quieter cabin, a redesigned center console, revised steering and suspension, and a retuned 148-hp engine.
2018Trim changes
Low-speed automatic braking became standard across the lineup. Mazda also revised the steering, suspension, throttle response, and sound insulation for a smoother, quieter drive.
2017
The original three-trim lineup and 146-hp engine carried over. Touring received 18-inch alloy wheels.
2016New generation
The all-new CX-3 launched in the U.S. as a subcompact crossover with a 146-hp 2.0-liter engine, six-speed automatic, 7-inch touchscreen, push-button start, and rearview camera.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Mazda CX-3.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle is the Mazda CX-3?
The Mazda CX-3 is a four-door subcompact crossover SUV. It seats five and is sized for easy city driving, with up to 42.7 cubic feet of cargo room when more space is needed.
Is the Mazda CX-3 a hybrid?
No. Every U.S. Mazda CX-3 uses a gasoline 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Does the Mazda CX-3 come with AWD?
Yes. Used CX-3 listings include both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive examples. Check the individual vehicle because the drivetrain varies.
What is the Mazda CX-3 known for?
The CX-3 is known for its city-friendly size, responsive handling, stylish design and a cabin that feels more polished than a basic small crossover. Later examples also bundle in substantial safety and convenience equipment.
Is the Mazda CX-3 roomy enough for a family?
It seats five, but it is better suited to solo drivers, couples or small families than to buyers needing generous rear space. The latest model has 35 inches of rear legroom and up to 42.7 cubic feet of cargo room.
Was the Mazda CX-3 discontinued in the U.S.?
Yes. The 2021 CX-3 was the final U.S. model year. Used shoppers will find U.S. examples spanning the 2016 through 2021 model years.
Are all used Mazda CX-3s basically the same?
No, although every U.S. CX-3 belongs to one generation. A 2019 refresh brought 148 horsepower, a quieter cabin, revised steering and suspension, updated styling and a redesigned center console. The lineup and standard features changed again for 2020.
Mazda CX-3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the Mazda CX-3.
4.2
Mazda CX-3
(799 reviews)
“The Mazda CX-3 is a very safe and dependable vehicle. I love the rear camera and the sensors. I just wish the back seats had a little more room.”
“The CX-3 is a smooth, fun ride. The Grand Touring package offers some nice safety features such as blind spot monitoring.”
“Great car for someone looking to use it to drive a lot. I am 6'2 and fit in it comfortably. It is fun and is a great new car for someone who is used to purchasing used cars.”
“I bought the vehicle for my son. It is his first car. I love the safety features and he loves the car!”
“I love my Mazda 3! It drives really smooth, and it is perfect for commuting and shopping.”
Sources
- news.mazdausa.com — 2020 08 11 2021 Mazda CX 3 Dynamic Driving In A Subcompact Package
- news.mazdausa.com — 2021 CX 3 Spec Deck
- news.mazdausa.com — Vehicles 2020 Cx 3
- news.mazdausa.com — 2021 05 21 Statement on Mazda6 and CX 3
- news.mazdausa.com — 2015 05 01 2016 Mazda CX 3 Overview
- news.mazdausa.com — 2018 05 02 2019 Mazda Cx 3 Compact Dimensions Big Ambitions
- news.mazdausa.com — 2020 01 09 2020 Mazda CX 3 Equipped To Explore
- news.mazdausa.com — 2019 Mazda CX 3 Spec Deck Version 1
- news.mazdausa.com — 2017 08 28 2018 Mazda Cx 3 Added Refinement Features
- mazdausa.com — 2019 / Cx 3 / 2019 Cx 3 Brochure
- news.mazdausa.com — 2018 Mazda CX 3 Spec Deck
- mazdausa.com — 2018 / Cx3 / 2018 Cx 3 Brochure