Mazda CX-3 Set for a Los Angeles Debut

Mazda CX-3 Teaser Image (Credit: © Mazda)

Mazda looks to have a busy schedule once the LA Auto Show rolls around, as it will show off some more details on the MX-5, an updated CX-5 and Mazda6, and various new chassis. Also on the docket is one all-new vehicle: the CX-3.

The CX-3 will join the CX-5 and CX-9 in Mazda’s lineup, and will be the smallest of the three crossovers. It’ll, of course, include the sexy KODO design language that I’ve grown to love and tons of Skyactiv technology to help keep its weight low and fuel efficiency high.

The details of this small SUV are sill rather scant, except for the teaser image above, but there are a few educated guesses that I can make. First of all, it will likely sit atop the same, albeit slightly stretched, platform as the Mazda2, and should boast the same line of powerplants. Unfortunately, I am still in the dark as to what drivetrains the tiny 2 will feature. I do know that the Japan-spec Mazda2 will get a 1.3-liter, gasoline-powered engine and a 1.5-liter diesel. The 1.3-liter would likely be too underpowered for U.S. consumption, and diesels still have not caught on here in the States. The likely culprit will be a detuned version of the 2.0-liter engine to avoid it cannibalizing sales from the base CX-5, but a slightly higher-output 1.3- or 1.5-liter are not out of the question.

Being based on the Mazda2, we know that it’ll come standard with front-wheel drive, but there is no indication as to whether or not AWD will be an option. My gut tells me that there is no way AWD will not be on the option list, but I am unsure if the Mazda2’s platform can support it.

The rest of the details on the Mazda CX-3 remain quite a mystery, but we won’t have to wait long as it will debut on November 19, 2014 between 10:30 and 10:55 a.m. PST.