Mazda released the CX-3 in 2015 hot on the heels of the wildly successful CX-5 that was an instant hit globally. We had predicted the success of the CX-5 in the Kenyan market before it became a hit here and similarly, we think the CX-3 will totally dominate the compact SUV market here. This category is currently dominated by the Nissan Juke, Nissan Dualis, Subaru XV but the CX-3 is on another level. The Honda Vezel comes close but its still not on the same level.

Mazda CX-3

On the outside, the CX-3 is well designed and it oozes of style. Mazda chose to stay with the winning formula of the CX-5 and differences are size only. The front is angular with modern LED headlamps and a large grille that gives it a sporty and masculine look. Towards the rear, it curves smoothly and is accented by the bulky tailgate and a dual exhaust assembly.

Mazda CX-3 Rear

On the inside, it resembles the CX-5 and its minimalistic and functional. The instrument panel is made of soft plastic and rubber material and a 7-Inch infotainment screens displays all the relevant info to the driver. High grades come with heated leather seats and many other extras such as sunroof and ambient lighting.

Mazda CX3 Interior

Earlier models in the Japanese market were equipped with a 1.5-Litre turbo diesel engine that were linked to either a 6-Speed automatic transmission or a 6-Speed manual transmission. A 2.0-Litre petrol engine was later added to the lineup in 2017. The 1.5-Litre diesel engine is powerful and the CX-3 is one of the most accelerative compact SUVs in the market.

Mazda CX-3

Mazda CX-3 Maintenance Costs In Kenya
The CX-3 is an affordable car to maintain. Service parts are shared with the CX-5 and they are fairly priced in Kenya. Genuine brake pads are the most expensive and you will require to buy them from Mazda parts dealers. Body parts are expensive and not easily available.

Mazda CX-3 Reliability In Kenya
The 1.5-Litre turbo diesel is a pesky engine that requires careful maintenance and clean diesel. Dirty and adulterated diesel will  quickly clog up the Diesel Particulate Filter(DPF) which can lead to major problems. The i-Stop is also prone to failure especially on high mileage cars.

1. DPF Problems
2. i-Stop failure
3. Loss of power

Mazda CX-3 Alternatives you can buy in Kenya: Subaru XV, Nissan Dualis, Nissan Juke, Mitsubishi RVR, Honda Vezel

Price of the Mazda CX-3 in Kenya: https://cars.topcar.co.ke/vehicles/mazda

Import the Mazda CX-3 in Kenya: https://topcar.co.ke/import-your-car/