Will Mazda offer a 2016 CX-3 with zoom-zoom? - Video
Mazda’s newest vehicle, the 2016 CX-3 subcompact crossover, will share the Kodo “Soul of motion” design that we all associate with the Mazda Zoom-Zoom philosophy. However, early indications are that the CX-3 will not have much Zoom.
2016 Mazda CX-3 Design
Mazda’s new 2016 CX-3 will have the great looks of a CX-5 but in a lower, more compact package. Up front, the style looks all Mazda3. The upright grill and bold look hints at a performance level that will excite. Along the sides, we see a CX-5, but in back the hatch is more vertical than other Mazdas. The exterior certainly looks very Zoom-Zoom. To our eyes, it is the best looking 4-door Mazda has. Our managing editor saw the CX-3 in person at its car-show reveal and described it as “Almost like a Mazda3 5-door on steroids, but in a good way.”
Will 2016 CX-3 Drivetrain Disappoint?
Mazda has promised its new CX-3 powertrain “…delivers a powerful and linear driving performance and outstanding environmental performance.” This is a worrisome statement for anyone hoping that the CX-3 will be a quick car and fun to drive. Although promising the car will be powerful, Mazda has, thus far, stated that the engine will only be a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine. Mazda’s current 2.0-liter engine is a marvel of efficiency, but it is not “powerful” by any modern definition. In the Mazda3, the 2.0-liter’s 155 hp is barely enough.
Further concern comes from the fact that the CX-3 will come only with an automatic transmission. Mazda tells us “The CX-3 features an automatic transmission as standard equipment on all trim levels. The SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission achieves excellent fuel economy, a direct feel similar to that of a manual transmission and smooth and powerful acceleration.”
We are big fans of Mazda here, and Zoom-Zoom is one of the main reasons for that. Will the new 2016 CX-3 deliver on the Zoom-Zoom promise? We are not so sure.
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Main story image courtesy of Patrick Rall
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