2022 Mazda CX-3: New variant lineup explained

Mazda’s answer to the Honda HR-V, the CX-3 is a stylish and feature-loaded fun-to-drive SUV. The revamped version of this Japanese model hit the Malaysian shores back in March in a sole 2.0L High variant, imported from Japan. Well, now the brand’s official distributor in Malaysia, Bermaz Motor, has expanded the car’s lineup by adding two more variants - 1.5L Core and 2.0L Core.

Positioned below the 2.0L High, the 1.5L Core is a base-spec version while the 2.0L Core retails as the mid-spec trim. All three variants are now imported from Thailand.

Today’s we will be discussing the Mazda CX-3 new variant lineup in detail, helping prospective buyers choose the best variant according to their preferences and affordability. So, without any further ado, let’s get started with the price list.

2022 Mazda CX-3 variants	Price (on-the-road, without insurance)
1.5L Core	RM 107,870
2.0L Core	RM 118,159
2.0L High	RM 131,359

Included in the price are a 5-year/1,00,000 km manufacturer’s warranty and a 5-year/1,00,000 km free maintenance.

Mazda CX-3 1.5L Core

While this entry-level CX-3 looks equally striking as the top-spec version, the absence of several upmarket features reflects its positioning in the lineup. 

On the exterior, the SUV comes equipped with halogen headlights paired with bulb-type daytime running lights, bulb-type rear combination lights and bulb-type rear fog lights. The ORVMs are power-adjustable with power folding and turn indicators. Also part of the kit is a rear spoiler and 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped with 215/60 tyres.

However, the base-spec CX-3 dimensions are the same as the top-spec model. It is 4,275 mm long, 1,765 mm wide, 1,535 mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2,570 mm.

The interior of the Zoom-Zoom car is kitted with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather-wrapped gear shift knob, fabric seats, 8-inch infotainment display with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay support, cruise control, Mazda advanced keyless entry with engine push start button, electric parking brake, six speakers, reverse camera and manual air conditioning.

Powering the base-spec CX-3 is a Skyactiv-G 1.5-litre  naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine borrowed from the Mazda 2. It generates a maximum power output of 114 hp at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 149 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The power is sent to the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Parts of the SUV’s standard safety kit are two airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist, dynamic stability control, traction control system, emergency stop signal, hill launch assist, auto hold function, walk away look, and ISOFIX.

Mazda CX-3 2.0L Core

The biggest and only difference between the mid-spec 2.0L Core and the base-spec 1.5L Core variants is the mechanical setup as the rest of the pack remains identical.

The mid-spec CX-3 is powered by a bigger Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre DOHC 4-cylinder VVT engine delivering a maximum power of 154 hp at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 206 Nm at 2,800 rpm. Shifting duties are handled by a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Mazda CX-3 2.0L High

On top of the Mazda CX-3 range lies the 2.0L High trim, which retails for RM 131,359. Justifying the variant’s higher price is the inclusion of several advanced features inside and out. However, the engine setup remains the same as the mid-spec version.

Speaking about exterior first, the full blow and whistles model features LED headlights with signature illumination, LED daytime running lights, LED rear combination lights, LED reverse light, an optional power sunroof and bigger 19-inch alloy wheels shod with 215/50 rubbers.

Inside, the customers get leatherette upholstery, a 10-way power adjustable driver seat, heads-up display, single-zone air-conditioning system, 8.0-inch head unit with wireless CarPlay, 360-degree reverse monitor, cruise control with auto-dimming, and wireless charger.

Ensuring the safety of the occupants sitting inside are the standard passive bits, six airbags, and advanced systems like - high beam control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention alert, lane departure warning system, and smart city brake support.

That’s all about the Mazda CX-3 variants on offer. We hope this guide helps you find the right trim suiting your budget and preferences. 

Also read: 2022 Mazda CX-8: Variants explained