2018 Mazda CX-3 Gets a Big Safety Update (and More)

While the Mazda CX-3 hasn’t enjoyed much success in terms of sales, critics rave over its zoom-zoom personality. For 2018, Mazda is building on this zippy personality and adding a handful of new features to help boost customer interest in this tiny people hauler.

Visually, the 2018 Mazda CX-3 will be identical to the 2017 model, but it will boast a surprising number of updates under its skin. While its engine and transmission will remain the same — a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 146 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque mated to a six-speed auto transmission — both units will feature improved responsiveness.

The CX-3 also will feature an updated chassis that includes new bushings, front lower control arms, recalibrated dampers, and new engine mounts to help it in the corners — not that it needed much help in this department anyway. Also improving stability and handling is standard G-Vectoring Control on all all i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive models.

2018 Mazda CX-3 (Credit: © Mazda)

Inside, the CX-3 will gain a few new available features, including a full-color Active Driving Display, a power driver’s seat with memory, and a heated steering wheel. Once inside the CX-3, occupants will notice a more peaceful cabin thanks to its improved door seals, thicker rear glass and sound suppression mats added underneath the floor and dashboard.

The final change is a big one for the CX-3, as Mazda has made its Smart City Brake Support, which applies the brakes in emergency situations under 19 mph, a standard feature on all CX-3s. Since the CX-3 is already an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, this will not improve its ratings any. However, it will make even the base trim a Top Safety Pick+ vehicle.

The 2018 CX-3 will hit showrooms in September 2017 at a starting price of $20,110, which is only a $150 increase over the 2017 model. The midrange Touring trim will ring in at $22,195 ($235 increase), and the range-topping Grand Touring model will call for $25,165 ($175 increase). Adding i-ACTIVE all-wheel drive to any trim will increase the price by $1,250.