Last year Mazda showcased their version of the mini SUV, the CX-3. This week, the CX-3 has finally been launched in Japan. The model goes on sale at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Autozam dealerships nationwide with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price ranging from 2,376,000 yen to 3,024,000 yen (around RM72k to RM92k). The company expects to sell 3,000 units per month in Japan.
The all-new CX-3 is the fifth model in Mazda‘s line-up of new-generation vehicles featuring the full range of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and KODO-Soul of Motion design. It combines a high-quality, stylish design; dimensions and clever packaging that make it easy to use in any situation; and performance that makes driving genuinely fun.
In Japan, the all-new CX-3 is equipped exclusively with the SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter clean diesel engine. This combines outstanding fuel economy (25 km/L under Japan’s JC08 test mode) with exciting driving performance thanks to impressive torque up to 270 N-m, surpassing that of a 2.5-liter gasoline engine. All model grades are available with either SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic or SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission, and Mazda’s new-generation all-wheel drive system, i-ACTIV AWD. All model grades are exempt from vehicle weight tax and acquisition tax, regardless of drive-type or transmission.
For the SKYACTIV-D 1.5, Mazda has developed the Natural Sound Smoother which reduces combustion noise known as “diesel knock sound”. The all-new CX-3 is the first vehicle in the world to adopt this technology which both refines the engine sound and makes the vehicle quieter when running.
Responding to the diversifying needs of customers with both driving pleasure and outstanding safety and environmental performance, the all-new CX-3 incorporates the Mazda Connect car connectivity system and i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety technologies.
“Our aim for the development of the CX-3 was to create the standard for a new era,” said Michio Tomiyama, program manager for the all-new CX-3. “Rather than focusing on spec sheet values, we went back to the drawing board and asked ourselves what are the essential values people seek in a car, and created this new model with a combination of Mazda’s latest technology and design. The CX-3 works in any scene, from inner-city driving to enjoying the great outdoors, and it will enable customers to express their unique individuality, unencumbered by other people’s sense of values. I am certain that this car will exceed customers’ expectations and add stimulation to their active lifestyle for many years to come.”
Whilst the Honda HR-V is fresh on the minds of Malaysians as Honda has been going around the country showcasing their take on a small SUV, it looks like Mazda themselves might be doing the same with the CX-3.
