The Good
The 2021 Mazda CX-3 boasts a responsive engine and agile handling, appealing to drivers seeking fun. Its reliability is generally good, and the interior offers a comfortable and upscale experience. Its efficient fuel economy and relatively affordable price make it a practical and emotionally satisfying choice for buyers seeking a stylish and economical subcompact SUV.
The Bad
The 2021 Mazda CX-3's weaknesses include a small rear seat and limited cargo space, which may not suit families or those needing to haul large items. The infotainment system, while improved, can still feel dated compared to rivals. Listen for any unusual noises from the transmission or suspension during test drives and check for complete service history.
2021 Mazda CX-3: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 148 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 29 mpg
- Highway: 34 mpg
- Combined: 31 mpg
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.1-8.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: Base model, includes 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, a 7-inch infotainment display, rearview camera, and Mazda's i-Activsense safety suite (including automatic emergency braking).
- Touring: Adds features like heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control, advanced keyless entry, and a center armrest for the rear seats.
- Grand Touring: Includes leather upholstery, LED headlights, a power moonroof, automatic climate control, Bose premium audio system, navigation system, and adaptive front-lighting system.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available.
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic.
- Safety Features (Standard): Includes ABS, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags.
2021 Mazda CX-3 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | CX-3 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Passenger Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Station Wagon |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HOFU |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | PE |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6 Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 Mazda CX-3 Have?
How long will the 2021 Mazda CX-3 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features include standard i-Activsense, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is available on higher trims.
Safety features include standard ABS, traction control, stability control, and a full suite of airbags.
The 2021 Mazda CX-3 received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), earning a "Top Safety Pick" award. The NHTSA gave it an overall safety rating of five stars. Optional features include adaptive front-lighting system and rain-sensing wipers on the Grand Touring trim. The infotainment system, while functional, lacks a touchscreen interface and relies on a rotary dial controller, which some users may find less intuitive.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2021 Mazda CX-3 Prices and Market Value
2021 Mazda CX-3 Cost of Ownership
2021 Mazda CX-3 Fuel Efficiency
2021 Mazda CX-3 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Mazda CX-3 Recalls & Defects
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
2021 Mazda CX-3 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Mazda CX-3 Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?
The CX-3's price is competitive, but the Kicks and Soul are typically less expensive. If cargo space is a priority, the HR-V is a better choice. If cutting-edge tech and value are paramount, consider the Hyundai Kona or Kia Soul. For a similar driving experience with slightly more practicality, the Mazda CX-30 is worth considering. If a fun driving experience and stylish design are key, the CX-3 holds its own, but ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and priorities.
Ranks #415 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 415 | 2021 Mazda CX-3 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Mazda CX-3 a Good Passenger Sedan?
Kess on April 24, 2021
Served us wellI recently traded this car in ONLY because we wanted more interior space. It served its purpose wonderfully for the 3 &1/2 years we owned it. It handled like a dream and was super easy to park and get around town. I cannot stress it enough that the ONLY reason we traded it in was to get more interior space mostly for cargo.
SueHB on October 7, 2020
New NMazda CX -3So far I love it . I just bought it. Compared to other cars I looked it , this was the best for my budget. Really nice interior, includes many safety features
Kess on April 24, 2021
Served us wellI recently traded this car in ONLY because we wanted more interior space. It served its purpose wonderfully for the 3 &1/2 years we owned it. It handled like a dream and was super easy to park and get around town. I cannot stress it enough that the ONLY reason we traded it in was to get more interior space mostly for cargo.
SueHB on October 7, 2020
New NMazda CX -3So far I love it . I just bought it. Compared to other cars I looked it , this was the best for my budget. Really nice interior, includes many safety features
Kess on April 24, 2021
Served us wellI recently traded this car in ONLY because we wanted more interior space. It served its purpose wonderfully for the 3 &1/2 years we owned it. It handled like a dream and was super easy to park and get around town. I cannot stress it enough that the ONLY reason we traded it in was to get more interior space mostly for cargo.
SueHB on October 7, 2020
New NMazda CX -3So far I love it . I just bought it. Compared to other cars I looked it , this was the best for my budget. Really nice interior, includes many safety features
Kess on April 24, 2021
Served us wellI recently traded this car in ONLY because we wanted more interior space. It served its purpose wonderfully for the 3 &1/2 years we owned it. It handled like a dream and was super easy to park and get around town. I cannot stress it enough that the ONLY reason we traded it in was to get more interior space mostly for cargo.
SueHB on October 7, 2020
New NMazda CX -3So far I love it . I just bought it. Compared to other cars I looked it , this was the best for my budget. Really nice interior, includes many safety features
Kess on April 24, 2021
Served us wellI recently traded this car in ONLY because we wanted more interior space. It served its purpose wonderfully for the 3 &1/2 years we owned it. It handled like a dream and was super easy to park and get around town. I cannot stress it enough that the ONLY reason we traded it in was to get more interior space mostly for cargo.
SueHB on October 7, 2020
New NMazda CX -3So far I love it . I just bought it. Compared to other cars I looked it , this was the best for my budget. Really nice interior, includes many safety features
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.