Page 16 - Motoring Spring 2021

TEST REVIEW MAZDA

Mazda CX-3 2.0 Hikari

The Mazda CX-3 has been
around for a few years now
and you certainly see plenty
of them on our roads. The

design still looks fresh and
modern, a testament to the
‘Kodo’ design language that

has not aged or started to
look outdated in any way.

any people don’t realise that the navigation and reverse camera, upgraded Bose sound system, leather trim and a sunroof as
Mazda CX-3 is built on the platform standard. Safety spec includes lane departure and blind spot monitoring and six airbags. The
Mof the small B-segment Mazda2, standard head-up display includes a repeat of the blind spot indication.
a car renowned for excellent handling in its In the South African scenario, I believe that auto-locking on pull-off should be mandatory and
class. It’s probably one of the first Crossover feel that this should be added by Mazda.
designs to have a distinctive ‘Coupe’ style The CX-3 range is priced from R346 700 for the Active manual up to R469 700 as tested.
as well. All models include the 3 year/unlimited mileage warranty and service plan. n
While this body styling may
compromise boot and back seat space a Click here for video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mw9cyQEiKi8
bit, the CX-3 is aimed at buyers looking
for sporty style and handling. If you need
more space, Mazda SA has the CX-30 or
CX-5 for you and both of these provide the
space that you may require.
The CX-3 range is powered by the very
popular Mazda ‘SkyActve G’ 2l 4-cylinder
petrol engine. In this model, it provides 115kW
and 206Nm to the front wheels through
6-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
I have often criticised the Mazda automatics
for holding the ratios for longer than I like,
however in the CX-3, I felt that it matches
the sporty nature of the car and the buzzy
element is a perfect match in this case.
Our week of testing consisted of a lot of
freeway driving and the trip computer showed
average fuel consumption of 6.7l/100km. This
is an excellent figure, especially when noted
that this car encourages you to drive with a
touch of verve.
The test car was in the recently added
top of the range Hikari specification level,
resplendent in a pearl white opalescent
finish. The 18-inch alloy wheels enhance
its good looks.
The Hikari adds many luxury features
including 8-inch touchscreen with

MOTORING | Spring 2021 | 14