mazda cx3 reviews australia Page 8

The Mazda CX-3 is basically a Mazda2 in hiking boots, which is why it feels zippy in town and a bit fidgety on broken Aussie tarmac.

The 2.0‑litre petrol (FWD or AWD on higher trims) is willing rather than wild, sipping around 6–7 L/100km if you behave; the six-speed auto is old-school but smooth.

Cabin quality punches above its size, though the back seat and boot are tight enough to make carry-on luggage feel ambitious, and the infotainment is fine if you like your screens modest.

Safety kit is solid (AEB, lane stuff on many trims), reliability is generally strong, and servicing won’t trigger a budget crisis.

If you want a comfy small SUV for city life with sharp steering and low running costs, it’s a winner; if you need space or long-haul plushness, look elsewhere.