Only Clean Diesel Engine for Domestic Models

The new compact crossover SUV, the CX-3, which had its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November, has finally debuted. Its launch has begun.

This is the fifth model in the new generation lineup, following the "Axela" and "Demio," which fully adopts SKYACTIV technology and the "KODO – Soul of Motion" design theme. Following its launch in Japan, it will be rolled out globally in sequence.

While gasoline and diesel engines are available for the CX-3, developed as a global strategic vehicle, an audacious strategy has been adopted for the domestic market, offering only the "SKYACTIV-D 1.5" inline 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. With a maximum output of 77 kW (105 ps) and maximum torque of 270 Nm, it promises powerful driving thanks to high torque comparable to 2.5-liter class engines. Fuel economy is also outstanding at 21.0-25.0 km/l under the JC08 mode.

While this diesel engine shares many core components with the one found in the Demio, Mazda has newly developed "Natural Sound Smoother" for the first time in the world to suppress diesel engine clatter. Various efforts have been made not only to enhance quietness during driving but also to achieve a more emotional engine sound.

Naturally, this is not standard on all vehicles in the lineup; it is available as an optional package. However, for Mazda, which excels in diesel engine development, this is an attractive new technology that competitors do not offer.

A 6-speed automatic transmission and a 6-speed manual transmission are available for all grades. Furthermore, Mazda's new generation 4WD system, "i-ACTIV AWD," is also offered.

As mentioned earlier, the stylish body, expressed with the latest "KODO design," has a manageable compact size of 4,275mm in length, 1,765mm in width, and 1,550mm in height. It also fits within standard mechanical multi-story parking garages. By minimizing overhangs and positioning the wheels at the four corners of the body, the wheelbase is set at a generous 2,570mm, successfully securing a spacious cabin. It also features a practical 350-liter luggage compartment even with passengers.

Mazda's New Standard

The interior form is designed to envelop the occupants, emphasizing harmony with the rich lines of the exterior. Each grade features unique coordinated trims, presenting a distinct world for each.

In terms of safety, it incorporates Mazda's advanced safety technology, "i-ACTIVSENSE," with various functions such as "Mazda Radar Cruise Control" to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, "Smart Brake Support" to help avoid or mitigate frontal collisions, and "Blind Spot Monitoring" to alert of approaching vehicles in blind spots when changing lanes. Additionally, "Smart City Brake Support," a low-speed collision mitigation brake, and "Accelerator Pedal Misapplication Warning" (forward detection) are standard on all models.

The grades are "XD" as the entry model, "XD Touring" equipped with LED headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels, and the top-tier "XD Touring L Package" with a leather interior. Prices range from 2,376,000 yen to 3,024,000 yen.

At the press conference held in Tokyo on February 27th, Representative Director, President and CEO Masamichi Kogai commented, "The compact SUV market is expanding globally, and it is predicted to be a crucial segment with expected growth more than double that of 2014 by 2020. We developed the CX-3 as a new standard for various scenes, from urban driving to outdoor activities."

The new CX-3 is planned for production at Mazda's headquarters plant in Hiroshima, with an annual target of 150,000 units. This initiative aims to revitalize local industry through domestic production and further expand Mazda's share and sales volume of its clean diesel engines, which currently hold 60 percent of the domestic diesel market.

Mazda CX-3
Body Size | Length 4,275 × Width 1,765 × Height 1,550 mm
Wheelbase | 2,570 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,525 / 1,520 mm
Weight | 1,260-1,340 kg
Engine | 1,498 cc Inline 4-cylinder turbodiesel "SKYACTIV-D 1.5"
Bore x Stroke | 76.0 × 82.6 mm
Max Output | 77 kW (105 ps) / 4,000 rpm
Max Torque | 270 Nm (27.5 kgm) / 1,600-2,500 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed AT or 6-speed MT
Drivetrain | FF or 4WD
Suspension Front | MacPherson Strut
Suspension Rear | Torsion Beam
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Disc / Disc
Fuel Economy (JC08) | 21.0km/ℓ-25.0km/ℓ
Trunk Capacity (DIN) | 350ℓ
Price | 2,376,000 yen - 3,024,000 yen

Mazda Call Center
0120-386-919