Small crossover buyers will be pleased to know that Mazda Philippines has launched its upgraded CX-3 premium sub-compact SUV for the 2018 model year. Launched at the Jinba-Ittai Academy event, the 2018 CX-3 packs subtle changes that increase its value quotient. It also removes one feature that’s going to be considered as a blessing by many.
Outside, the CX-3 carries on unchanged for 2018. That said, Mazda has made the top-of-the-line 2.0 AWD Activ model easily distinguishable from other variants thanks to its body kit. The body kit contains front bumper corner blades and side skirts, both with color-keyed accents, and a high gloss rear spoiler extension.
The bulk of the changes to the CX-3 is found inside. The three-spoke steering wheel is new, matching the one in the revised Mazda2 and Mazda3. Together with the new tiller, the 2018 model gets a new instrument cluster, a full-colored heads-up display, and a powered driver’s seat with a two-setting memory.
Mechanically, the CX-3 remains unchanged. It’s still powered by a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine making 148 horsepower and 192 Nm of torque. Paired with this engine is a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters (still no cruise control). That said, the CX-3 is poised to offer an elevated level of handling thanks to the inclusion of G-Vectoring Control technology which is standard on all variants.
The biggest change to the CX-3 though is Mazda Philippines’s decision to omit the i-stop system for 2018. While this is sure to drop the CX-3’s fuel efficiency, it’s bound to make the long-term ownership much cheaper since would-be owners won’t need to rely on purchasing a pricey Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB).
For 2018, the Mazda CX-3 will remain available in three variants: the 2.0 FWD Pro (P 1,280,000), the 2.0 FWD Sport (P 1,380,000), and the 2.0 AWD Activ (P 1,500,000). This means the FWD models have no price increase compared to the previous model while the 2.0 AWD Activ sees a modest P 20,000 increase.
i think thailand and indonesian cx3 have diesel engines. why not here in the philippines? i think they will sell here more if they offer diesel engines in all their car models and variants. and whats this they are saying that having a gasoline engine give a premium feel than diesel? if this is true then cx5 totl variant should be a gasoline and the entry - mid variant a diesel.
ReplyDeleteDiesel engines are expensive. If they put the diesel in there, the price would be at least 1.8m which is too much for our market
DeleteA fully loaded CX-3 with a SKyactiv D 2.2L engine would be priced at 1.8m, however, using the 1.5L D would be priced at around 1.6-1.7m which is still not feasible in terms of pricing.
Deleteany news when will it be available in the market?
ReplyDeleteIf only mazda could do something about their boring designs. Its the same banana from all their other segments. While i do admire their efficient engines. That old design gas to go!
ReplyDelete