For its second update, designers and engineers were emboldened with the mission of making Mazda CX-3 “Exquisite and Edgy.” Mazda applied its latest technologies and design principles to further elevate CX-3, including customer feedback to make Mazda CX-3 an even more compelling vehicle, offering improved ride comfort without compromising its driving dynamics, updating the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 for greater responsiveness and efficiency and enriching CX-3’s interior with a beautiful Japanese aesthetic, replete with new, upscale materials and design.

For its latest update, designers made subtle exterior improvements that add a deeper feeling of elegance and quality.

A new front grille provides a stronger presence with a greater sense of depth. Mazda CX-3’s LED tail lights adopt a new design that produces a cylindrical, machine-like. Additionally, new 18-inch wheels use a multifaceted spoke design with a metallic sheen to evoke a sense of depth and speed that complements the new chrome accents on CX-3’s body.

Perhaps, the greatest change inside is CX-3’s newly redesigned centre console and armrests. In switching to an electronic parking brake with an auto-hold feature not only improves the functionality of the vehicle, it allowed Mazda designers plenty of space to rethink the centre console, now with relocated cupholders, storage in the centre console and an integrated armrest. The armrest is covered with soft padding, enhancing the quality and feel of the CX-3.

Continuing upfront, Mazda CX-3’s front seats have been fully redesigned, wider, with high-density, vibration-absorbing urethane foam that creates a firm, supportive seating surface. Yet, they’re supple enough to keep the driver and passenger comfortable for long trips. For the first time, higher-grade models will be available with full leather seat surfaces. Thicker door panels, rear-door glass, headliner and upgraded door seams additionally help provide a quieter and more refined cabin.

Additionally, from the dashboard to the door trims, suede-like material provides a sophisticated ambience for CX-3’s occupants. Colouring has been simplified, with grey serving as a base colour, complemented by white or black leather seats in higher-grade models. New red louvre accents around CX-3’s HVAC vents share a rich lustre, similar to Soul Red Crystal. A high-gloss pleated piping on CX-3’s leather seats complement its radical, yet sophisticated style.

Mazda CX-3 comes standard with an eager SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter, direct-injection gasoline engine. This highly efficient, four-cylinder engine has been retuned to increase torque across its entire RPM range, improve fuel-efficiency and reduce internal friction. The revised engine is complemented by Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control (GVC) technology, which uses engine timing to control chassis dynamics, leading to smoother, more accurate steering inputs.

Mazda CX-3 may be the gateway into the Mazda brand, but it’s hardly deserving of the title “entry-level”. It continues to be the standard of a new generation, elevated. More than just a vehicle that will simply take you from point A to B, or a fad that comes and goes, Mazdas are designed to provide an enjoyable experience.

Click the TEST DRIVE button below and enjoy first-hand the uniquely inspired 2019 Mazda CX-3.