2021 Mazda CX-3

The newest CX-3 model comes in a single Sport trim. It totes around outfits such as black side moldings, bright dual exhaust outlets, front LED lamps, and a rear roofline spoiler. Additionally, a pair of body-color power mirrors boasts integrated turn signals, whereas the undercarriage supports a set of 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Plus, the surface is available with a unique range of topcoats. Options extend from metallics like Machine Gray and Soul Red Crystal to pearlescent Snowflake White.

This crossover features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with Skyactiv-G frame, along with advanced direct fuel injection, chain-driven dual overhead camshafts, and variable valve timing. A Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission adds a finishing stroke to the ensemble. It couples with manual shifting and Sport mode integration while encouraging an output of 148 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque.

The all-new Mazda CX-3 carries an electric power-assist steering column, four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, and a unibody chassis. It also plays host to a MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion-beam rear suspension. Your choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive rounds out the list of upfits. With the latter, you can expect up to 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The former raises these estimates to 29 mpg and 34 mpg, respectively.

Vibrant accessories coat the cabin of this crossover. These include automatic air conditioning with pollen filtration, cloth sport seats, a padded black center console, and rear heating outlets. Keyless illuminated entry and push-button start are also standard. What's more, the five-passenger seating and 42.7 cubic feet of cargo space ensure a comfortable ride for all, human or otherwise. On the digital front, a color infotainment system shifts your attention to the dashboard. It unlocks a slew of sophisticated features such as a 7-inch color touch screen, a six-speaker audio system with AM/FM tuning, and smartphone integration for Android and Apple devices. The interface also supports internet radio integration, multifunction control settings, SMS text messaging, and voice command.

The 2021 Mazda CX-3 rivals its classmates in this department. In fact, it earned five stars for front and side crash protection from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It also received a Top Safety Pick Plus title from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Bolstering these accolades are systems such as adaptive front lighting for enhanced curve illumination, front side-impact curtain air bags with rollover-sensing function, and a security suite with an engine immobilizer and keyless remote panic button. However, its most impressive qualities are the cutting-edge technologies. Hard-to-see areas are easier to maneuver thanks to blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Smart brake support further helps you avoid accidents by partnering with collision warning and pedestrian detection software. Meanwhile, lane departure warning and radar cruise control with stop and go make highway cruising a simple feat.