2020 Mazda CX-3 Review
Price Range: $16,990 - $23,990
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Mazda has gone to great lengths to give the 2020 CX-3 a premium look and feel that's beyond the norm. It has first-rate steering, praiseworthy handling and ride quality, and a cabin that looks grown-up. Though the CX-3 is shy on cargo and rear-seat space, its style and value might just make up for that.
Price & Payment
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Average price: $18,458
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Price
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 could be too firm for some
What's new
- The CX-3 lineup has been reduced to only the Sport trim
- Many more standard advanced safety features
- Added convenience features including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Part of the first CX-3 generation introduced for 2016
Overview
If popular small SUVs such as the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 are too big or expensive, going with an extra-small SUV can be a great way to downsize. The 2020 Mazda CX-3 is a solid choice in that class. In particular, it sets itself apart from the rest with attractive styling, sporty driving manners, respectable fuel economy figures, and a long list of features.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
7 listings
- $17,417fair price$364 above market
- 51,245 miles
- 5 Seats, 29 City / 34 Hwy MPG
- 106 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Upgraded Headlights
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
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Located in Richmond, VA
- Vehicle History:
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- Features and Specs:
- 31 Combined MPG (29 City/34 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- JM1DKDB78L1471695
- Stock:
- 471695R
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- $12,233great price$3,300 below market
- 99,630 miles
- 5 Seats, 29 City / 34 Hwy MPG
- 42 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Upgraded Headlights
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
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Located in Waldorf, MD
CALL US FOR ANY QUESTION OR TO SCHEDULE A TEST DRIVE. FOR IMMEDIATE RESPONSE CALL OR TEXT (240) 202-4002EASY FINANCING PROGRAMS. We offer financing no...
- Vehicle History:
- No accidents, 2 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- Features and Specs:
- 31 Combined MPG (29 City/34 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- JM1DKDB70L1475126
- Stock:
- S65404
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
For 2020, the CX-3 is only available in a singular Sport trim as opposed to last year's four choices. With this one model, you get plenty of advanced safety features as well as a few driver assistants. Still, the CX-3 has some inherent drawbacks, such as a below-average cargo space and tight rear seating. As much as we like the CX-3, we suggest cross-shopping it against the top-rated Hyundai Kona, the roomier Honda HR-V or the Kia Soul.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Good
7.7
out of 10
We drove the 2020 Mazda CX-3 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
7.5/10
How does the CX-3 drive? Power is more than adequate for typical city driving, and the CX-3 has no issues merging with highway traffic. But once up to speed, passing on the highway, or even maintaining speed on longer uphill grades, requires near maximum throttle.
Despite the lack of power, the CX-3 remains one of the better cars to drive in the class. The CX-3's steering makes it easy to guide through fast, flowing turns. But the tires howl even at very modest cornering speeds, putting a damper on how much fun you can have on a deserted winding road.
Despite the lack of power, the CX-3 remains one of the better cars to drive in the class. The CX-3's steering makes it easy to guide through fast, flowing turns. But the tires howl even at very modest cornering speeds, putting a damper on how much fun you can have on a deserted winding road.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the CX-3? The Mazda really distinguishes itself in the class thanks to its firm but compliant suspension. Body control is excellent for the class, and everything from speed bumps to high-speed highway dips are dispatched beautifully. Likewise, broken pavement doesn't really faze the Mazda.
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. Imperfect roads introduce a fair amount of road noise into the cabin. But that pales next to the noise the engine makes under hard acceleration.
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. Imperfect roads introduce a fair amount of road noise into the cabin. But that pales next to the noise the engine makes under hard acceleration.
Interior
8.5/10
How’s the interior? A clean and minimalistic approach puts all controls within the driver's reach. The center display has touchscreen ability, and it's also controllable by an easy-to-use knob near the shifter. The screen thankfully doesn't wash out in sunlight. Thanks to a low hood and thin roof pillars, visibility is generous when you're looking forward. Rear visibility is adequate.
Front passengers enjoy a relatively spacious interior with ample shoulder 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. But children should have enough room back there.
Front passengers enjoy a relatively spacious interior with ample shoulder 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. But children should have enough room back there.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? The CX-3 is at or near the top of the class with its intuitive and flexible infotainment interface, along with driver assistance niceties such as traffic-adaptive cruise control. There's no native navigation system, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard equipment. With better integration with your phone and more natural voice control, we prefer these alternatives to the navigation systems in other Mazdas anyway.
Storage
6.5/10
How’s the storage? Cargo space behind the rear seats is a bit on the tight side, even for this class of vehicle. That said, folding the rear seats from the cargo area is easy to do as the latch on the seatback is within arm's length. The rear seats don't fold completely flat but still go quite low.
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 for the latest phones.
As for child duty, the CX-3's rear car-seat anchors are visible and easy to access. You'll need to slide the front seats forward a bit to fit a rear-facing safety seat, but access through the rear doors is good for installation and removal.
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 for the latest phones.
As for child duty, the CX-3's rear car-seat anchors are visible and easy to access. You'll need to slide the front seats forward a bit to fit a rear-facing safety seat, but access through the rear doors is good for installation and removal.
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates the front-wheel-drive CX-3 will get 31 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is on par with competitors from Honda and Hyundai. With all-wheel drive, that number drops to 29 mpg. On our 115-mile mixed driving evaluation route, our front-wheel-drive CX-3 test vehicle returned 31 mpg.
Value
8/10
Is the CX-3 a good value? While most small crossovers echo their subcompact car roots with swaths of hard plastic and uninspired styling, Mazda has decided that small vehicles don't have to look or feel inexpensive. It's easily the most premium-feeling vehicle in the class. Overall, the CX-3 easily justifies its cost.
2020 Mazda CX-3 trim level differences
The 2020 Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact SUV that is offered in a single Sport trim level. Compare the 2020 Mazda CX-3 trim levels in-depth.
Which CX-3 trim does Edmunds recommend?
The 2020 Mazda CX-3 is now only available in the Sport trim level with no options. Essentially you only need to choose a color and decide if you want all-wheel drive.

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$159/mo for CX-3 Sport
CX-3 Sport
vs
$211/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Reliability
The 2020 Mazda CX-3 has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. 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
for Average Subcompact SUV
Frequency
0.47x/yr
vs. 0.69x/yr
for Average Subcompact SUV
for Average Subcompact SUV
Severity
7.9%
vs. 10.7%
for Average Subcompact SUV
for Average Subcompact SUV
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
1 recall foundChecking 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.
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
5(71%)
4(13%)
3(3%)
2(6%)
1(7%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Best compact SUV by a mile
5 out of 5 starsJim, 10/17/2018
2019 Mazda CX-3 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
The Mazda CX-3 handles better than any other car in its class. I test drove five other vehicles including the Mini, and the Mazda was easily the most fun to drive. My fuel economy to date has been excellent, better than expected. Seat comfort is very important to me for long trips, and once again the CX-3 provides very supportive and comfy seats that come very close to my old Volvo. Love … this compact SUV and the high end feel inside and out.
Miata In CRV Wrapper
5 out of 5 starsOden Hoffer, 06/14/2019
2019 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
If I had to choose one car for all around purpose, light duty, good gas mileage and over all performance, this car may be the one. I like the color and the fact that it's small, easily cleans and shines well. People have gone out of their way to approach me and praise the paint color. Passengers have complimented me on the ride. More importantly, I find it a comfortable and … affordable vehicle to drive thus far. It is easy to enter and depart from. Front seats feel roomy for a small vehicle. In the GTX which I purchased is very comfortable and fairly quiet. The family enjoys the sun roof and riding environment and experience. I chose this vehicle because it was obtainable in my price range with an upscale package that included some accessories that are missing on many more expensive cars. Navigation, Lane Change Assist, Gravity Assist, Back-up camera with warning assist is just a part of the package. I have a twenty year old Miata and just replaced tires, brakes and plugs on it. It is still very dependable, but smaller and more cramped. I like the CX3 seating better for long trips. It is quieter than Miata, not quiet as good in corners, but darn close. I normally get better gas mileage with CX3 because I am more relaxed while driving. I like having the sport size platform of Miata, with some added head room and a little more living space. Although I average 31mpg, I often find my gas mileage about 41mpg. It seems best during sustained speeds of 60mph or less. Average mileage decreases with speeds over seventy. Twenty-seven miles per gallon is sill okay for speeds between seventy and eighty. Most of my driving is on rural roads.
What a fun to drive, safe little crossover
5 out of 5 starsJTS, 12/08/2018
2019 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
I've owned my CX3 for several months now and I find myself enjoying the drive more and more. Sure its small but you should know that in research. Test drive it. The car fits my family needs just fine. I'm 6' 2", my wife if 5' 4" and I have a 3.5 year old. A front facing car seat provide comfortable space for my wife and daughter. That was going to be the deal breaker. I wanted a … small, fun car that I could drive in the winter. Already I've snagged a few small parking spots that others dare not. I've been averaging 33 MPG overall. Many times I hit 34/35 mpg for long drives. The car is responsive with the suspension being the start in my book. I like the slightly stiff feel which give an athletic sportiness. Also driving around the city it has a decent amount of pickup and just feels zippy. Flat out acceleration is not going to take your breadth away however. I just opted for the $399 android auto/apple car play upgrade which I consider a must. The entertainment now is complete and I used Waze and Spotify a lot. The trunk is quite small but I've managed regular grocery runs. This car is my commuter and option to take to Mt Rainier with AWD. I think the buyer should be in the marker for a small commuter, fun to drive that can seat adults in the back only on few occasions. Oh yeah and it happens to be the best looking small crossover period.
Happy with my choice!
5 out of 5 starsKelsey, 01/15/2019
2019 Mazda CX-3 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
I chose this car because of the price (especially 0% apr), AWD and comfort while driving. I dont have kids nor much use for my back seat, so the small backseat area doesnt affect me at all, and with the seats down there can be plenty of storage space. I haven't had any problems yet with the rain or snow, and feel much safer driving in those conditions than I did in my Prius! My one … complaint is the small gas tank - although I get good gas mileage I find myself stopping to fill up for often than I would like. I love my seat warmers, climate control, bluetooth functions, safety and design of my CX-3.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Mazda CX-3, so we've included reviews for other years of the CX-3 since its last redesign.
2020 CX-3 Features & Specs
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $20,640 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 31 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $159/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 17.8 cu.ft. |
front wheel drive | |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
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
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover13.8%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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