2017 Mazda CX-3 SKYACTIV-G SE 2.0 petrol

Summary:

Stylish compact SUV

Faults:

Nothing in one year and about 4000 miles. Main dealer used for servicing.

General Comments:

This Mazda CX-3 may look like every other generic car on the road these days, but look beyond the typical modern looks and it is actually a decent all round car.

Nice wheels on this SE model, white exterior in color, would have preferred a darker color but buying used I had no choice. It's not bad to look at either way. Inside is typical dull grey and very Japanese also.

Very comfortable. It has all the modern features you would expect from a 2017 car.

I rather like driving it, sporty feel. 2.0 petrol engine is the one to have - more reliable than the diesels of this time period, and still manages a genuine 40 mpg or more if you take it easy. Power is very good as well, gearshift is slick, very good drive.

If I have any complaints - the interior has not got as much space as you might think. I do a low annual mileage so its hard to comment on long term reliability, (though I'm sure if servicing is kept up with it will be fine). Oh and the ride is overly firm on rough roads. But if you are looking for a decent modern vehicle, you could do a lot worse than one of these.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th July, 2026

2015 Mazda CX-3 Skyactive D Sport Nav 1.5 diesel

Summary:

Typical mass produced blandness

Faults:

DPF (diesel particulate filter) needed replaced, expensive. Common modern diesel issue.

Rear struts won't hold the hatch open very well anymore.

Mystery intermittent starting issue. Replaced the battery, seems better but still won't start some days, but then starts no problem a short time later!?

Lately the engine management light has come on and off, needs investigation, appears to drive OK however.

General Comments:

The CX-3 is a typical modern vehicle. Looks like anything else on the road. Very bland and boring.

It is comfortable, I'll give it that. Economical too, always over 50 mpg from the 1.5 diesel. Not fast at all however. Pleasant to drive rather than exciting.

Spacious interior and well equipped.

Not bad looking exterior in red with alloy wheels.

A very boring car, not bad, just dull. Not that reliable either. Yes mine is ten years old now, but has low mileage and appeared looked after when bought a couple of years ago, hopefully not too expensive to repair, then I might keep it as basic transport, nothing more. That's all these cars are these days!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 5th November, 2025