“Creating the standard for a new era.” That’s a pretty ambitious mission statement. But it was the concept for Mazda CX-3 initial design and engineering direction. And it made sense. Mazda CX-3 transcended the typical notions of what was the quickly burgeoning subcompact crossover SUV segment.

It exemplified KODO—Soul of Motion design, sleek, with wheels pushed out to its corners, a taut cabin, large wheels, a long hood and short deck. Its chassis dynamics were far better than a crossover had any right to be. It was a clean-sheet design, executed with the notion of providing those with active lifestyles a vehicle to complement their vibrant, fulfilling lives.

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 engine for greater responsiveness and efficiency, while also enriching CX-3’s interior with a beautiful Japanese aesthetic, replete with new, upscale materials and design.

Attention to detail, purpose-led ergonomics and amenities help the CX-3 stand out from the growing subcompact crossover segment. Mazda continues to focus on the core values of the 2019 CX-3 with a retuned engine for increased performance and new design features that fans will be sure to appreciate.

The redesigned interior follows a colour palette that feels sophisticated while keeping the subcompact crossover SUV’s active appeal. A new electronic parking brake allowed designers and engineers to create a new centre console configuration, comfortable armrest and ample storage space ready for any drive.

Here’s an at-a-glance list of more of what’s new about the 2019 CX-3:

• Retuned SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine with 148 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 146 lb-ft torque at 2,800 rpm
• New grille design
• Standard Direct Tire Pressure Monitoring System new in all CX-3 models
• Fully redesigned seats with high-density, vibration absorbing urethane foam
• New available full-leather seating surfaces
• New available passenger manual seat lifter
• New available LED combination tail light design
• New available 18-inch alloy wheel design

New available driver assist features include:

• Newly standard Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear CrossTraffic Alert in all CX-3 models
• Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection
• Smart Brake Support
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go function
• Lane Departure Warning
• High Beam Control
• Adaptive Front-lighting System
• Active Driving Display
• automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers
• automatic climate control
• automatic on/off LED headlights and LED tail lights
• Adaptive Front lighting System
• Active Driving Display

Still not convinced? Consider how Mazda’s i-ACTIV all-wheel drive draws its strength through its sensor technology, which takes into account factors like steering angle, throttle inputs and wheel-spin along with temperature and use of wipers to paint a clear picture of the outside conditions. i-ACTIV all-wheel drive can adjust power output more than 200 times per second, using 27 different variables, to “predict” what the road conditions look like.

Mazda does not stop at delivering vehicles that meet customer expectations. Instead, its engineers, designers and product planners look to exceed them. See for yourself how this commitment translates into a safe, intuitive, and inspiring drive behind the wheel of the 2019 Mazda CX-3. Click the TEST DRIVE Button below.