2019 Mazda CX-3 Review

Name: 2019 Mazda CX-3
Brand: Mazda

Price Range: $16,451 - $21,990

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Edmunds' Expert Review

by Mark Takahashi

Pros

Attractive and comfortable interior
Engaging driving experience
Impressive fuel economy for a crossover
Good selection of available driver aids and active safety features

Cons

Below-average cargo space
Cramped rear seat
Suspension tuning may be too firm for some

What's new

Mild styling updates
Slightly more powerful engine
A center armrest and bin are now standard
Advanced safety features are available across all trims
Part of the first CX-3 generation introduced for 2016

Admittedly, we have somewhat low expectations for the subcompact crossover class. For the most part, this new segment is associated with awkward styling and lukewarm performance. Yet the 2019 Mazda CX-3 is a standout for its evocative exterior design and sporty driving dynamics. Holding it back, however, is its relatively small backseat accommodations and limited cargo capacity.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

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2019 Mazda CX-3
Sport 4dr SUV
$16,451
good price
$1,459 below market
- 31,599 miles
- 5 Seats, 27 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- 16 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
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Located in Manassas, VA
Features and Specs:
29 Combined MPG (27 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
JM1DKFB7XK1453919
Stock:
SMC453919
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
05-13-2026
New Listing
2019 Mazda CX-3
Touring 4dr SUV
$16,623
fair price
$489 below market
- 75,366 miles
- 5 Seats, 27 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- 390 mi away
- Home delivery*
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Farmington Hills, MI
Rare Find,Back-Up Camera,Blind Spot Monitor,Bluetooth,Brake Assist,Heated Seats,Keyless Start,Premium Sound,Satellite Radio,Sunroof / Moonroof,Sunroof...
Features and Specs:
29 Combined MPG (27 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
JM1DKFC74K0449028
Stock:
K0449028P
Certified Pre-Owned:
No

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For the 2019 model year, the CX-3 gets a minor refreshening that adds a center armrest bin and electronic parking brake that result in more space for your personal items. There's also a slight increase in power, and Mazda claims to have reduced noise and vibrations, too. Combined with strong fuel economy numbers and a comprehensive list of available advanced safety features, the 2019 Mazda CX-3 deserves your consideration in an ever-growing class.

Notably, we picked the 2019 Mazda CX-3 as one of Edmunds' Best Small SUVs for this year.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

7.6 / 10

We're fans of the Mazda CX-3 for its engaging performance and sharp styling. Its comparable lack of rear-seat and cargo space could be a concern for some, though. A slight update for 2019 adds some interior storage and promises a quieter and calmer cabin.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring (2.0L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).

Scorecard

Overall	7.6 / 10
Driving	7.5
Comfort	8.0
Interior	8.5
Utility	6.5
Technology	7.0

Driving

7.5

No one expects a small, entry-level crossover to be a performance machine, but Mazda has imbued the CX-3 with exceptionally sharp steering and a nice balance of attributes. Only its too-tall gearing and meek tires prevent a more engaging drive.

Acceleration

7.5

Power is more than adequate for typical city driving, and the CX-3 has no issues merging with highway traffic. But passing on the highway, or even maintaining speed on longer uphill grades, requires near maximum throttle.

Braking

7.5

The brakes are smooth around town, and the pedal is easy to modulate for harder stops. Panic stops during testing revealed a very noisy anti-lock braking system. Braking distance from 60 mph was 127 feet, which is on par for the class.

Steering

9.5

The CX-3 has nearly ideal steering. It's well-weighted and direct. Steering effort builds just off-center and gets incrementally weightier as the steering angle increases, but it's still manageable at slow speeds. The steering wheel rim is nicely contoured, too.

Handling

8.0

Mazda's compact crossover is agile and communicative. Turn-in is crisp and accurate, and the CX-3 is easy to guide around turns. But the tires protest audibly even at very modest speeds, putting a damper on how much fun you could have on a deserted winding road.

Drivability

6.5

The tall gearing in the six-speed transmission isn't well aligned with the mild power output from this engine, which is especially obvious when attempting to pass at highway speeds. There's a Sport mode rocker switch to sharpen throttle response, and the paddle shifters are a welcome touch.

Comfort

8.0

The CX-3 has a comfortable and stylish cabin — for front passengers, anyway. Its best-in-class ride is countered by an abundance of engine and road noise, but neither of those factors is enough to be a deal-breaker. Cramped rear passengers might throw in the towel after 30 minutes.

Seat comfort

7.0

Most people will find the front seats of the CX-3 agreeable and comfortable, though the seats come up a bit short on thigh and back support for larger-framed folks. The CX-3's compact footprint hurts rear-seat legroom.

Ride comfort

9.0

The Mazda really distinguishes itself in the class in ride comfort. The suspension tuning is firm but compliant. Body control is excellent for the class, and everything from speed bumps to high-speed freeway dips are smoothed out beautifully. Likewise, broken pavement doesn't really faze this Mazda.

Noise & vibration

6.5

Wind noise isolation is good, even at elevated speeds, but imperfect roads introduce a fair amount of road noise into the cabin. But even that pales next to the racket the engine makes under hard acceleration. Vibrations are minimal, even over broken pavement.

Climate control

7.5

Climate control systems don't get much more clear than this, with three easy-to-turn knobs and no digital interface to go through. Cabin temperatures are well regulated. Airflow for the passenger is good, but the driver's vents aren't adjustable enough — they blow air mainly on the driver's hands.

Interior

8.5

From an excellent driving position to good visibility and simple controls, nearly everything a driver wants is readily at hand in the CX-3. The tight rear seat is one of the cabin's few weak points.

Ease of use

9.0

A clean and minimalistic approach puts all controls within the driver's reach. The center display has touchscreen ability and doesn't wash out in sunlight. You can also control the screen with an easy-to-use knob near the shifter.

Getting in/getting out

7.5

Most people will find it easy to step into the CX-3 because it sits higher than a sedan of the same size. Its front doors are short but open wide, allowing easy access even in tight parking spots. Rear passengers, especially adults, will have a more difficult experience due to limited legroom.

Driving position

9.0

Finding an agreeable driving position is quick and easy thanks to a tilt-and-telescoping wheel and a fairly adjustable seat. The controls all fall readily to hand. It's clear Mazda has made driving the No. 1 priority.

Roominess

7.5

Front passengers enjoy a relatively spacious interior, with ample shoulder room and legroom as well as room around the driver's hands. Adults seated in the rear have fairly tight legroom, especially if the front passengers are tall. Children should have enough room back there, though.

Visibility

8.0

Thanks to a low hood and thin roof pillars, visibility is generous when looking forward. The short overall length of the CX-3 means the passenger seat can obstruct over-the-shoulder visibility, but the outside mirrors are correctly sized. Rear visibility is adequate.

Quality

9.0

Inside and out, the CX-3 has good, consistent panel gaps. Our test CX-3 was essentially rattle-free. Mazda's generous use of simulated suede and high-quality leather on most of its touch points is uncommon among subcompact SUVs. It's easily the most premium-feeling vehicle in the class.

Utility

6.5

The smaller the vehicle, the less space it will inherently have. But the CX-3's stylish short rear overhang sacrifices already precious cargo room. This could turn off buyers who are looking for more practicality. Interior storage is mediocre.

Small-item storage

6.5

Front passengers get bins in the center console that can double as cupholders but not as very good ones — cans and bottles rattle about constantly. There's a tray for cellphone storage but it's frustratingly small. Rear passengers get small door pockets.

Cargo space

6.0

Trunk space is a bit on the tight side, even for this class of vehicle. That said, folding the rear seats from the trunk is easy to do since the latch on the seatback is within arm's length. The rear seats don't fold completely flat.

Child safety seat accommodation

7.0

LATCH anchors are visible and easy to access. Larger child seats might require that the front seats slide forward a bit to fit, but access through the rear doors is good for installation and removal.

Technology

7.0

With its intuitive and flexible infotainment interface, along with many driver assistance features, the CX-3 should have great scores. But a lack of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility and low-power USB ports are a bit of a turnoff.

Audio & navigation

8.0

The infotainment system is easy to use overall, though some virtual-button iconography is hard to decipher. The navigation system predicts inputs so users don't have to enter the entire address. Destination entry is disabled while moving.

Smartphone integration

5.5

Neither Apple CarPlay nor Android Auto is supported — one of the last areas where Mazda lags some competitors. Connecting to Bluetooth is consistent but takes longer than expected. The USB ports are low-power and barely charge a modern phone.

Driver aids

7.0

Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and a collision mitigation braking system are all standard on the Grand Touring trim. Street sign recognition can be added with the Premium package. We found the blind-spot monitoring system to be a bit overreactive.

Voice control

8.0

The voice control system seems to be totally based around natural speech recognition. It's fairly good at destination entry, making calls and tuning to terrestrial radio stations or Bluetooth audio.

Which CX-3 does Edmunds recommend?

Now that advanced safety features are available throughout the CX-3 lineup, the base Sport trim will likely satisfy most shoppers. Previously, these items were only offered with the top Grand Touring trim. The Touring trim represents a pleasant middle ground with its added convenience features such as keyless ignition and heated front seats, but the price increase compared to the Sport is significant.

Compare 2019 Mazda CX-3 trim levels

2019 Mazda CX-3 models

The five-passenger 2019 Mazda CX-3 is offered in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. All models are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (148 horsepower, 146 pound-feet of torque) that is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available on all trims.

Standard features for the base Sport trim include 16-inch alloy wheels, a roof spoiler, remote keyless entry, cruise control, a six-way manually adjustable driver's seat, 60/40-split folding rear seats, automatic emergency telematics, a 7-inch touchscreen, the Mazda Connect infotainment system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a six-speaker audio system with internet streaming radio apps. Advanced safety features include frontal collision warning with automatic braking (below 19 mph), blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The Touring trim adds 18-inch wheels, heated mirrors, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, piano black exterior trim, keyless entry and ignition, automatic climate control, simulated leather and cloth upholstery, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an overhead console with sunglasses holder.

The range-topping Grand Touring trim tops it off with adaptive headlights, a sunroof, LED exterior lighting, chrome exterior trim, paddle shifters, a head-up display, full leather upholstery, a cargo cover, a navigation system, and a seven-speaker Bose premium audio system with satellite and HD radio. Advanced safety features include adaptive cruise control with full-speed range, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning and automatic high beams.

All of the safety features are available as options on supporting trims, as are some other items. Available on the Grand Touring trim only is the Premium package that adds a power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, driver-seat memory functions, a heated steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a traffic sign reader.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$150/mo

$199/mo

Avg. Compact SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

See Edmunds pricing data

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Reliability

The 2019 Mazda CX-3 has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranks it #2 out of 8 among Subcompact SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4.5 out of 5 stars4.5/5Excellent

#2 out of 8 among Subcompact SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$370/yr

vs. $435/yr
for Average Subcompact SUV

Frequency

0.47x/yr

vs. 0.69x/yr
for Average Subcompact SUV

Severity

7.9%

vs. 10.7%
for Average Subcompact SUV

Recalls

2 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 23V487000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 6023G
Number of vehicles affected:: 236100
Defect Description:: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
Defect Consequence:: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 13, 2023. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6023G.

Recall Number:: 21V875000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 5321K
Number of vehicles affected:: 121038
Defect Description:: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
Defect Consequence:: Fuel pump failure may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the fuel pumps, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 18, 2022. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5321K.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Mazda CX-3 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.3

29 reviews

5(72%)

4(10%)

3(4%)

2(6%)

1(8%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2019 CX-3 Features & Specs

Trim:

Sport

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$20,390
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	31 MPG
Cost to Drive	$150/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	12.4 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the CX-3 models:

Blind Spot Monitor: Warns if a vehicle is lurking in your blind spot and beeps if you signal a lane change in that direction.
Smart Brake Support: Warns if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes automatically if the driver does not respond in time.
Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover13.8%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good