The Good
The 2018 Mazda CX-3 offers a responsive and engaging driving experience that appeals to emotional buyers. Practically, it boasts good fuel efficiency and Mazda's reputation for reliability. Its stylish design and comfortable interior also add to its value, making it a well-rounded choice in its class. It provides a premium feel without the premium price tag.
The Bad
The 2018 Mazda CX-3's weaknesses include limited rear passenger space and a smaller cargo area compared to some competitors. The infotainment system can also feel dated. Some owners have reported issues with the paint being thin and susceptible to chipping. It's wise to inspect for these paint imperfections.
2018 Mazda CX-3: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G inline-4
- Horsepower: 146 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 146 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- FWD: 29 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
- AWD: 27 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 0-60 mph Time: Approximately 8.1 - 8.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not Recommended (Essentially 0 lbs)
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: 16-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, Mazda Connect infotainment system with 7-inch display, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry.
- Touring: Leatherette upholstery with cloth inserts, heated front seats, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, advanced keyless entry.
- Grand Touring: Leather upholstery, LED headlights, LED taillights, navigation system, automatic climate control, Bose premium audio system, sunroof, head-up display, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning.
All trims come standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available on all trims as an option. The higher trims offer more safety and convenience features like advanced safety technologies and a premium audio system. The infotainment system, while functional, is not the most modern, but is user friendly. The handling is responsive, making it a fun-to-drive vehicle despite its modest power output.
2018 Mazda CX-3 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | CX-3 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Front-Wheel Drive Automatic |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | YAMAGUCHI |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $22,195 USD |
| Invoice Price | $21,571 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $975 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Mazda CX-3 Have?
There have been some recalls issued for the 2018 CX-3, including potential issues with the fuel tank and daytime running lights. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to see if any recalls apply. Long-term reliability appears to be generally good, but keeping up with scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial. Some owners have also reported premature wear on brake pads, so it's a good idea to have them inspected regularly. While Mazda's are generally reliable, checking for these potential issues can help avoid costly repairs down the road. Prior to purchasing, it's always best to obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.
How long will the 2018 Mazda CX-3 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features include available blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning, depending on the trim level.
Safety features are comprehensive, with standard features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional advanced safety features, like smart city brake support, are available on higher trims.
The 2018 Mazda CX-3 received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave it a "Top Safety Pick+" rating when equipped with specific headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. These ratings reflect the vehicle's strong performance in crash tests and its availability of advanced safety technologies, making it a safe choice in its class.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2018 Mazda CX-3 Prices and Market Value
2018 Mazda CX-3 Cost of Ownership
2018 Mazda CX-3 Fuel Efficiency
2018 Mazda CX-3 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Mazda CX-3 Recalls & Defects
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
2018 Mazda CX-3 Warranty
Rust
Roadside
2018 Mazda CX-3 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Mazda CX-3 Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
In terms of features, the CX-3's infotainment system is dated compared to the Kona and HR-V, but the higher trims offer comparable safety tech. Reliability is generally good across all these models, with Mazda holding a solid reputation. Price-wise, the CX-3 is competitive, though the Kicks is typically less expensive.
Alternatives to consider include the Hyundai Kona, which offers similar driving dynamics and more modern tech, and the Honda HR-V, which provides superior cargo capacity and a more practical interior. If budget is a primary concern, the Nissan Kicks is worth a look. However, if you value a sporty driving experience and an upscale interior, the CX-3 remains a strong contender.
Ranks #375 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 375 | 2018 Mazda CX-3 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Mazda CX-3 a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
beairdboy on January 24, 2021
Comfortable, interior is quietPleased, I expected as a small car that the ride would be bumpy. It rides like a larger car. No under carriage noise. No window noise. Very important to me.
Rinkas on July 26, 2020
Feels like in a cockpit very futuristic designFeels like in a small cockpit handles very well good pickup for a 4 cylinder my daughters like the car too n now want one themselves
Bob Jackson on September 2, 2019
New car in the past weekI'm enjoying the car. The only difficulty that I've encountered is that I can't get XM satellite radio started in my car since the trial subscription had long expired by the time I purchased the car.
Debi62 on June 28, 2019
Worst car I have ever ownedI have owned many different makes of vehicles, this is hands down the most poorly designed vehicle ever the control buttons are on the floor so sand and dirt gets in the cracks and jams all the buttons
Modo on December 20, 2018
Very disappointed with the quality cx3 - 2016I've had so many thing go wrong with this car. Very disappointing. Poor quality. Airless conditioning stopped working. Infotainment system continually restarts in even 1 degree weather. Persistent noise from front end. Shoddy trim. Will likely sell and go back to my trusted Subaru Forester.
Dr. Tallgreenalien on December 6, 2018
Can't stand this car!This is the noisiest car I've ever driven. Both the road noise and engine noise are awful. The car radio is also awful, so attempting to drown out the car noise with radio noise is like taking ineffective medicine with bad side effects. I even tried driving the car with earplugs. I can't stand driving this car! I will be happy to return it to the rental agency today! Yes, the car handles well, is sporty, has a nice interior, etc. But if you can't stand driving it, what good is it?
Ramondo on December 4, 2018
Only buy sport model, money on upgradesCar is over priced. Get 32 mpg average. Seats marginal. Children only in rear. Childrens car seat in rear makes. Front seat nearly unusable. Engine is extremely buzzy, and annoying.
MgMg on December 4, 2018
A Lot of Car For The MoneyOverall, for the money, great value. Two minor negatives - visibility through rear mirror less than I was used to; FM radio reception inferior to previous vehicles. May be due to the tires, but at highway speeds, road noise is high. I'll try different tires when they need replacement.
MAZDA FAN on September 28, 2018
Fabulous car in all respects !This car gets phenomenal gas mileage, is comfortable and roomy and has great styling. I am so happy to own it. The Crossover is perfect for me and my dog:)
Onthego on September 18, 2018
Somewhat dissapointedWas looking for a small SUV for my wife . In most respects we are happy with our choice. One big disappointment is the lack of a power front seat for the driver. We purchased the top of the line model never imagining that it didn't come standard with a power adjusted driver seat. It didn't. You have to spend over a $1000 more on other options to get the power seat. We also miss the center arm rest though we were aware of that when we bought the car. The milage is also not what we expected for a 4 cylinder car. I guess that was to be expected. Otherwise the car is good. Much more fun to drive than most other in it's class. Past experience with Mazda says it should be pretty reliable.,
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.