Mazda's Subcompact Crossover Gets a Mild Refresh
The 2019 Mazda CX-3 made its debut at the 2018 New York Auto Show and you’ll have to look closely to see all the changes.
Subtle updates were made to the exterior of the 2019 Mazda CX-3 as part of its refresh, with a new front grille that Mazda says “provides a stronger presence with a greater sense of depth.” There’s also the addition of new chrome accents that start up front and continue along the profile of the vehicle. In the rear, the LED tail lights get a new design, while new 18-inch wheels adorn each corner.
More significant changes take place inside the cabin, with the CX-3 getting a newly redesigned center console and armrests. The Japanese automaker switched to an electronic parking brake, allowing its designers to rethink the center console, which now features relocated cupholders, storage in the center console, and an integrated armrest. The front seats have also been redesigned and are now wider with high-density, vibration-absorbing urethane foam. And for the first time, higher-trim models are available with full leather seat surfaces.
Rear-seat passengers haven’t been forgotten with the addition of a center armrest with built-in cupholders. Helping make the cabin quieter are thicker door panels, rear-door glass, headliner, and upgraded door seams.
2018 New York Auto Show Coverage
Under the hood, performance of the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine has been refined. Mazda says the engine has been retuned to increase torque across its entire RPM range, resulting in improved fuel economy and reduced internal friction. On paper however, figures increase by two for both horsepower and torque, resulting in 148 hp and 148 lb-ft of twist. There’s also the addition of Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control technology to the CX-3, while the suspension and power steering have also been fine tuned for enhanced responsiveness.
Pricing information for the 2019 Mazda CX-3 was not announced at its debut, but it should come soon since it will go on sale in the U.S. this spring.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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