Refreshed 2022 Mazda CX-3 launched – 3 variants, 2 powertrains, from RM108k

Local Mazda distributors Bermaz sees its local line up refreshed this week following its introduction of the updated-for-2022 Mazda CX-3 compact crossover. Said model range sees three variants now available with two powertrain choices, the former now includes two new ‘Core’ variants.

Apart from a mild nip-tuck with the exterior, little else has changed on the surface at least, and it can be dressed in a choice of six paint schemes. New to the range are both the 1.5 Core and 2.0 Core variants, which slots below a range-topping 2.0 High offering.

As the new entry-level offering, the Mazda CX-3 1.5 Core is powered by the 1.5-litre iteration of Mazda’s signature Skyactiv-G 4-cyl direct-injected powerplant, offering a respectable 114 HP and 149 NM. The CX-3 2.0 Core slotted above that, on the other hand, shares the same 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G 4-cyl mill as the flagship CX-3 2.0 High variant, which deliver peppier 197 HP and 206 NM output figures instead.

In terms of fuel efficiency, Mazda claims average figures of 5.7 litres/100 KM and 6.3 litres/100 KM for the 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre mills respectively.

All variants see their powertrains paired with both the Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel-drive setups. Additionally, all variants come standard-equipped with Mazda’s proprietary G-Vectoring Control (GVC) suite, as well as Mazda’s i-Stop idling stop-start feature.

Mechanical bits aside, both new Core variants differ from the range-topping High variant in terms of features and kit count. Omitted in both new entry-level and mid-range variants are things like the advanced driver assistance (ADAS) features and functions, paddle-shifters, sunroof, wireless charging pad, automatic air conditioning, and LED headlights.

Aptly, much of the aforementioned premium amenities and features remain standard-equipped in the flagship CX-3 2.0 High instead. Highlights include six airbags (only two are primed in the Core variants), 360-degree parking monitor with front and rear parking sensors, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, head-up display (HUD), as well as leather seats and powered 10-way driver seat adjustment.

As for common features present, all variants offer an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit brimmed with both Apple and Android connectivity with 6-speaker setup, two USB charging ports, electronic parking brake, 16-inch alloy wheels, as well as a host of active safety features such as ABS with EBD and BA, traction and stability control programs, hill-launch assist, as well as auto brake-hold function.

As for price, Bermaz has tagged the new entry-level Mazda CX-3 1.5 Core variant at RM107,870, whilst the Mazda CX-3 2.0 Core variant commands a higher base figure of RM118,159 instead. The flagship Mazda CX-3 2.0 High variant caps things off at RM131,359.

All prices stated excludes insurance costs but does include a 5-year or 100,000 KM warranty and free maintenance coverages.

Keen to have a look at the new CX-3 range up close? All three will be on display during the Bermaz Auto Showcase event happening this month at the Oval Concourse, 1Utama Shopping Centre in Petaling Jaya this month from Oct 5 to Oct 9 between. During this period, said showcase runs daily from 10AM to 10PM.