The Mazda CX-3 combines stunning styling with comfort and practicality

By Gerry Murphy

When Mazda came to Galway a couple of weeks ago to continue their support of Connacht Rugby, they lined up their full range of cars at the Sportsground. With the whole collection together in one place, it was clear that they now have one of the best-looking ranges of any car maker.

From the smallest MX-5, which has just arrived in Ireland, to the handsome Madza6, the range is a true indication of all that is good about the brand.

Included in this line up was the CX-3, a car that fills the space of a small, compact SUV/Crossover was another stand-out model. It went on sale in Ireland in June and I have been driving it last week and over a more extended number of kilometres than normal. I was suitably impressed, for the most part, with the standard of vehicle on offer and especially with the sheer thrill of whizzing around in it.

My test model was the CX-3 GT 1.5 diesel with automatic transmission and all-wheel drive version and it combines Mazda’s stunning styling that has been awarded with the Red Dot Design Award, a prize for high design quality and the comfort and practicality to suit an energetic lifestyle. While this may not be the car of choice for most buyers, it proves that Mazda have got a lot of things right for buyers of this type of car.

There are four specification and two engines to suit the needs of most customers. There is a 2.0-litre petrol version and a 1.5 diesel with two-wheel drive and those should prove to be the most popular for Irish buyers. Prices start at €20,695 with my top-of-the-range version costing €30,195. With 105 bhp and half leather interior, 18” alloy wheels the car cuts a dash on the street and works a treat on the open road.

CO2 emissions for the base model are 105g/km (€190); my test model measures 136/km given an annual road tax bill of €280. I achieved 6.0L/100 over 1,500 kilometres in what was an exceptionally high amount of driving.

It comes with their renowned SKYACTIV Technology; it is athletic and alert and has the kerb appeal that will be a magnet for the young driver and the fashion conscious. Indeed, it is a car that is on target for both urban driving and long journeys into the countryside.

Around town it is the perfect size for easy manoeuvring and parking. Visibility is first class and the Mazda steering is delightful for dashing and darting through the tightest spaces.

Out on the open road, again the steering set-up is one of the highlights of the CX-3. Mazda cars are renowned for their handling prowess and the little CX-3 is right up there when it comes to accuracy and cornering. This is also where the SYKACTIV technology takes centre stage.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.