Mazda has updated the CX-3 subcompact
crossover in Japan by introducing a new engine and a new available body color. In
addition to the existing 2.0-liter gasoline and 1.8-liter turbo diesel engines,
the Mazda CX-3 can now be had with a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G
gasoline four-cylinder engine.
Hooked to a six-speed automatic
transmission that sends power to the front wheels as standard (AWD is an
option), the base engine produces 111 PS at 6,000 rpm and 144 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Unsurprisingly, the Mazda CX-3 is more
economical when equipped with this engine than with the 2.0-liter unit.
According to the automaker, the CX-3 Skyactiv-G 1.5 front-wheel-drive model
averages 17 km/L (equal to 5.9 l/100 km / 40 mpg) on the combined WLTC test
cycle.
New engine aside, the Mazda CX-3 is now
available with the Polymetal Gray Metallic paint that debuted on the Mazda3 and
was recently added to the MX-5 lineup as well. Other updates include the
addition of new-generation seats as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
connectivity. The updated Mazda CX-3 will launch on June 4 in Japan with a
starting price of 1,892,000 yen (US$ 17,600).
Mazda also announced details about the
CX-3 100th Anniversary, which will debut in the automaker’s home market in late
July. The 1.5-liter engine will be available on the commemorative model, which
will combine a Snowflake White Pearl Mica exterior paint with a red leather
interior. Other special features will include 100th Anniversary badging on the
front fenders, hubcaps, headrests, floor mats and key fob.
The Mazda CX-3 100 Anniversary will be
available in Japan from late July 2020 until the end of March 2021 for a base
price of 2,653,000 yen (US$ 24,700).
