Test Mazda CX-3 2.0 Skyactiv-G 120 CV, an SUV-B with its own identity

SUVs entered the market for the highest and most expensive segments, but over time their popularity is such that they have spread to all segments of the automobile, even the smallest. Now the boom is in the B-segment SUVs, derived from utility vehicles. Our test of the week corresponds to one of the most striking SUV-Bs, the Mazda CX-3 with the motor 2.0 Skyactiv-G 120 hp, the lowest powered gasoline.

With the Mazda CX-3, those from Hiroshima do the first foray into the SUV-B and contrary to what we might think, it is not a derivative of the Mazda 3 but of the Mazda 2. The Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Citroën C4 Cactus have a new somewhat risky classmate, since mechanically it bets on the Skyactiv philosophy, which is against downsizing and supercharging practiced by the rest of the rival brands. The personality of the Mazda CX-3 goes beyond its appearance.

Kodo design language

Started with the Mazda CX-5, the Kodo design language marks the stylistic trend of Mazda, with bodies with sharp and sporty features that give all its models a dynamic and striking appearance. The Mazda CX-3 is no less, also achieving a robust appearance with a high belt line and little glass surface.

In addition, our test unit corresponds to the Luxury finish, intermediate in the range and that looks 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, well proportioned for the body of 4,27 meters long, and it is that in Mazda it is common that the smaller wheels do not visually fill the wheel arches. The led headlights they also provide a much more interesting look at this compact SUV. The adventurous touch is given by the plastic moldings that protect the fins from possible scratches.

Simple interior with appeal

The cabin of the Mazda CX-3 has a fairly minimalist design, but no less attractive. Behind the multifunction steering wheel is the dashboard, with a generous central rev counter in which the speed is shown on a digital display, which could be larger, although that fault is corrected with the practical head-up display that there is on the chapel of the picture. To the sides of the rev counter we find the odometer and the gear change indicator, as well as the on-board computer.

The rest of dashboard spreads out like an airplane wing, a feeling reinforced by the three aeration outlets that look like turbine engines, with an attractive red outline that adds a touch of style to the cabin. The passenger's central air vent is camouflaged in the strip with a chrome detail that joins the two turbines on the right side of the dashboard.

In a raised position we find the multimedia screen of the equipment 7-inch MZD Connect. This screen is touch only when stationary, with good response and it looks great in all kinds of conditions. Behind the gear lever there are joystick controls With which you can also control all the functions of the screen, a preferable option to touch controls, although the controls are located in a somewhat delayed position, not entirely comfortable to handle. The central armrest between the front seats is missing (neither is there in the rear seats).

In the lower part of the dashboard we find the three wheels of the single zone air conditioner, as well as USB, 12 V AUX and SD card sockets for the browser, along with the CD changer and a small storage compartment in which large mobiles do not fit well.

Being the Mazda CX-3 a B-segment SUV, derived from the Mazda 2, we cannot expect a waste of materials. All plastics are hard, albeit with solid fits and no creaking, besides with good presence. Yes, it is true that the console between the seats moves when pressing with the leg or exerting lateral pressure with the hands. Only the central area of ​​the dashboard is padded, upholstered in synthetic leather and with contrasting black and red stitching, providing an interesting quality detail.

On the steering wheel and on the doors there are some decorative plastics that imitate (badly) carbon fiber, while the door armrests and the center console side panels are upholstered in Redskin. Mazda has been able to play very well with colors and contrasts to bring a touch of perceived quality to the interior of the Mazda CX-3.

A fair cabin

It is very likely that the Mazda CX-3 seems attractive to us, but the truth is that if we look for its more practical side, from the outset we will find a smaller cabin than desired. In the front seats there is no major problem and the driver's seat can be placed very low (it has no lumbar adjustment).

In the rear seats, the space for the legs is correct (except if we put the seats back a lot), as well as the head space up to 1,85 meters high, but three adults will not fit comfortably. In addition, the central seat is very narrow and harder and higher. That third passenger in the middle will have to deal with a transmission tunnel and the sides of both seats, which protrude more than the central part, reducing longitudinal space for the legs. Access to the rear seats is not entirely comfortable, since the space to access through the door hole is reduced.

Virtue is not in the trunk either

Continuing with the interior, we will not find in the trunk of the Mazda CX-3 the best volume in the B-SUV segment. cube 350 liters and it is smaller than that of its main rivals, although not by much difference. The Luxury and Luxury Premium versions have the subwoofer from the Bose sound system, which subtracts 63 liters of capacity and practically disables the removable tray for the double bottom of the trunk. There is no spare wheel, instead we find a puncture repair kit.

The rear seats fold 60:40 and the entire cargo area is flush when we put the removable floor in its highest position. The gap left in that double bottom is practically useless, although in our test it served to store the rigid trunk cover, since we had to load the trunk to the roof to be able to carry the luggage of four people (two large suitcases, one cabin and a backpack).

Skyactiv Philosophy: Contrary, and Rightly so

I was particularly keen to try a Mazda Skyactiv-G (petrol) engine. At a time when all manufacturers are betting on smaller, turbocharged engines, Mazda has gone for the atmospheric and large displacement mechanics, a completely opposite trend. With 2.0 litres, the 3PS Mazda CX-120 petrol and the 150PS premium version are the largest displacement SUV-Bs in their segment.

When we start the engine cold we perceive the sound of the engine somewhat accelerated, but as soon as it reaches temperature its refinement at idle is absolute, being completely silent and without transmitting any kind of vibrations. To know if the Stop & Start has come into operation we will have to look at the rev counter.

With 120 HP of power, this block of 2.0 liters of direct injection offers good performance in the Mazda CX-3. Declare a 0-100 of 9 seconds and it is certainly an agile car thanks to its 1.230 kilos of weight. the engine is very progressive and that can make the sensation of thrust less than that of a turbo engine. Also, when we go up a lot of revolutions the engine is not noisy.

We cannot forget that it is a naturally aspirated engine and that entails stretching the gears more. On the road, a turbo engine may be more comfortable, but where this engine takes advantage is in the city, since its lower area is quite full and makes the Mazda CX-3 a lively car. It is noted that the maximum torque of 208 Nm is reached at just 2.800 revolutions. When we drive on the road, the Mazda CX-3 is a silent car, well isolated, with inaudible mechanics.

The gearbox is six-speed manual (optionally there is a six-speed automatic transmission) and front-wheel drive. The gearbox offers a pleasant feel, with short, precise and well-staggered travel. The clutch is smooth-acting, like the brakes are easily dosable.

If we talk about dynamic behavior, we find in the Mazda CX-3 of our test that dynamism that characterizes the vehicles of the Japanese brand. It is an agile car and with a firm suspension which contains the body rolls. In addition, the suspension filters irregularities well, except when they are very fast potholes, resulting in something dry. It is also noted that in expansion the suspension bumps easily, which at very high speeds on irregular roads reduces driving safety and pleasure.

A fuel with low consumption

At this point we have verified that the 3 hp Mazda CX-120 Skyactiv-G gasoline moves freely and is a refined car. Now we have to see the part that many users value the most: consumption. Here Mazda returns to show that downsizing does not have to be the solution at the problems. The Mazda CX-3 has been one of the gasoline cars that has consumed the least of all that I have tried, at the level of segment A utility vehicles.

On a Madrid-Vitoria trip, with four passengers and, as we have mentioned, the trunk fully loaded, the consumption obtained was only 6,1 liters at 100 kilometres. On the reverse journey the figure was 6,3 litres.

Driving around the city is where consumption will rise the most, but we have not reached 8,0 liters. The Stop & Start contributes to this greater efficiency in the urban cycle, with a smooth and adequate operation, except when the engine stops and immediately after we want to start. In those situations, the car has a hard time reacting to restart the engine.

Concluding

In short, there is no doubt that the Mazda CX-3 is one of the most interesting B-segment SUVs in many respects. Whoever is looking for an attractive car, well finished, very equipped and with good dynamic behavior, has a great candidate in the Mazda CX-3. In addition, the 2.0 hp 120 Skyactiv-G petrol engine is highly refined and uses little fuel.

However, the Mazda CX-3 not for those people who go to price (it is not cheap) nor for those who seek great amplitude in the rear seats and especially in the trunk. In terms of finishes, it is a model far superior to rivals such as the Renault Captur or the Nissan Juke.

Equipment Mazda CX-3

Mazda CX-3 Style

• 16″ alloy wheels
• Adjustable driver's seat height
• 60:40 folding rear seats
• Climate
• Radio CD 6 speakers with Bluetooth, AUX and 2 USB
• Leather steering wheel and gear knob
• Four electric windows
• Cruise control
• Power folding heated mirrors
• automatic emergency braking

Mazda CX-3 Luxury

• Style Equipment
• 18″ alloy wheels
• Leather and fabric upholstery
• Head-Up Display
• MZD Connect 7″ with Navigator and DAB radio
• Bose sound system 7 speakers
• keyless access
• Lane departure warning
• Tinted rear windows
• paddle shifters (automatic)
• rear parking camera
• rain sensor and lights
• LED fog lights
• Full LED headlights
• LED taillights

Mazda CX-3 Luxury Premium

• Luxury Equipment
• heated front seats
• Leather upholstery

Mazda CX-3 price in Spain

Prices do not include discounts or aid such as the PIVE Plan.

Editor's opinion

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