Mazda is set to launch the next-generation CX-3 as soon as 2020, Go Auto reports, adding that the new B-segment SUV will grow in size, space as well as overall packaging. It will share the same platform as the next Mazda 3 (the CX-3 currently shares the same platform as the Mazda 2), which means it should dimensionally align with larger rivals like the Toyota C-HR, Hyundai Kona and maybe the Honda HR-V and Subaru XV.
The new platform is the SkyActiv-Vehicle Architecture that’s set to debut in the all-new Mazda 3 next year, which comes with a stronger body structure and stiffer chassis. This new platform includes a re-engineered torsion beam rear suspension system that will apparently quell noise and vibration paths entering the cabin.
Mazda’s director and R&D boss Kiyoshi Fujiwara said the new setup was brought on by sustained criticism that existing SkyActiv models are too noisy. “The torsion beam axle is much better than multi-link suspension in terms of road noise, so we selected that in reducing road noise for customers,” he said, referring to the new Mazda 3 versus the outgoing model. “Because we got a lot of complaints from the media.”
Another potential addition is the fitment of the SkyActiv-X engine – a new high-tech petrol engine with Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI). Mazda says the supercharged engine will deliver petrol-like effervescence with the benefits of diesel fuel economy, as well as an output of 190 hp and 230 Nm.
Now, while those figures are for the Mazda 3, it’s logical to think that the same engine will be used for the upcoming CX-3, seeing that current Mazda models share the same engines. Expect SkyActiv-X to be offered as the premium powertrain, alongside the standard SkyActiv-G and SkyActiv-D engines. A six-speed manual or six-speed auto will continue transmission duties.
Elsewhere, the CX-3 is said to get improvements in areas pertaining to seat comfort and support, thanks to Mazda’s newly-developed seating design. There’s also better acoustics for better refinement, as well as improved dashboard ergonomics. Boot capacity and rear legroom will also grow.
We’ve driven a prototype of the 2019 Mazda 3 equipped with SkyActiv-X in Japan, and you can read all about it in our review, here. What do you think of this move? Is it wise for Mazda to chase after the HR-V, or should the CX-3 stay as a class maverick? Let us know in the comments, below.
GALLERY: 2018 Mazda CX-3 facelift in Malaysia
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Will wait for Baoteng X30 / Geely SX11
True dat. Proton X50 SUV 1.5T
Cx3 is comparable with X1 and way better than XC 40
Better than the XC40 you say? Back to school boy! You got much to learn about comparison.
He’s in Osaka
That makes sense that he loves sushi cars.
Just create another denomination cx4 problem solved. Btw pls upgrade the engine la…kona already 205hp 265nm kia soul too…u japs still using old 150hp 200nm engine..what a joke
CX 4 alredi existed https://paultan.org/2016/03/15/mazda-cx-4-to-be-sold-exclusively-in-china-report/
Their engines are one of the best out there for NA. The engines you are comparing to are all forced induced. Try asking KIA to design a similar NA engine and see if they can reach the same levels of FC and power output then only we talk.
Mazdas cars have been known to be smaller than their Japanese competitor cars. So if CX3 grows in size, it might be too similar to CX5, making the more expensive CX5 less desirable unless it were to grow in size as well.
This possibly might lead Mazda to increase the size of all their models. Might be a good thing for Mazda, in order to gain market share from their competition.
Size is one thing. If pricing alredi reaching CRV/CX 5, sure again wun sell much here.
Abesla CHR then! With HRV and CX3 onslaught, CHR will have more sales!
HRV onslaught, CHR and CX3 will have more sales than HRV.
current cx-3 engine produces 151hp. Next gen 190hp!
A mazda with more space and improved nvh. Ok, count me in!!
+ rear AC vents. + skim kereta pertama belia. Ok, count me in!!
Good move especially with an engine of 190hp and fuel efficient just like diesel (as stated in the report). Current Honda HRV or CRV or the Toyotas are less powerful thus, it can give these 2 brands a run for its money
Your last sentence on the first part is wrong. It should be “Toyota, Mazda is still more reliable and more powerful than Honda” then it will be correct on the first part of the last sentence
By the time CX-3 gets as big as HRV in 2018, wouldn’t HRV already be bigger than it is in 2020 compared to the current one we have?
finally it grew after so many years being a puny car.
Mazda badly need to improve cabin space. The current generation M3, CX3 are just losing out in cabin space to competitors. Great ride & handling, superb engine & technology, unique Red colour but the cabin space is cramped as hell !!
Best ride and handling Japanese brand car is Subaru not your Mazda. Go figure out why.
I think the whole point of the CX3 was a small car with big engine. If they manage to keep the weight in check and squeeze in a bigger engine, thats a solid win IMO.
Space is not important for me, if want a big size vehicle I will go for MPV like Big SUV like CX-9 or MPV like Vellfire/Alphard, now I just worry about Mazda cars NVH, becuase Mazda NVH is damn bad now compare to other car maker.
Not sure for all Mazda cars, but at least for the CX-5, the NVH is one of the best among the Japanese SUV.
The new CX 5 yes but the previous gen was noisy as hell.
As a Mazda3 owner, I really agree. The nvh in proton is much better than my m3. But the fun in driving and handling is just awesome. If they fix this in the future I will stick to Mazda.
Of course space is important hence all the backlash Mazda is getting for their smallish 2, 3, CX3 and even the new CX5. They can’t compete with Honda with interior space packaging. Not everyone can afford a CX9 or a Vellfire so they have to sort out the interior space issue for their cheaper cars.
The new Mazda like M6, CX5 are much quieter now. best handling & interior build among Japanese makers. Tested M3, damn noisy & cramp. Ended up go for Civic Turbo which is much quieter & spacious + rear aircond.
Mazda : “2020 Mazda CX-3 to be bigger, more like the HR-V”.
Honda : “By 2020 HR-V to be bigger, more like CX-4.”
Mazda : …
Toyota: zzzzzzzzzzz
Wrong Peta, It must be
“Honda: zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz”
Then the fact is correct.
Wrong fact the user named as: “SUV”. Your second sentence is wrong on “SUV” comment, it should be,
Honda: “zzzzzzzzzzzzzz”
Mazda: “Yup, I Agree that Honda don’t have any idea at all, meanwhile by 2020 Mazda CX-3 will be bigger more like CH-R, Hyundai Kona, Proton SX11”
Subaru: “Me too, meanwhile by 2020 Subaru XV will be bigger more like CH-R, Proton SX11 and Hyundai Kona”
Toyota: “I also agree, meanwhile by 2020 Toyota CH-R will be bigger more like Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-4 and Proton SX11 ”
Proton: “I also agree, meanwhile by 2020 Geely SX11 will be bigger more like CX-4, Toyota CH-R, Subaru XV and Hyundai Kona, unlike HRV”
Hyundai: “I also agree that HRV will still be smaller than CH-R, Hyundai Kona, Proton Geely SX11, Subaru XV and Mazda CX-3 and Mazda CX-4 by 2020, meanwhile by 2020, Hyundai Kona will be bigger, more like CX-4, CH-R and Proton SX-11”
then the facts will be correct
U got to be kidding me. This is the first time I hear of multi link suspension being more noisy than torsion beam. C’mon la just say you want to lower costs and make it more affordable for customers instead of this excuse. It’s not going to handle as well as before with this new setup.
Hey Mazda. Please don’t bullshit. The torsion beam rear setup has less bushings and components compare to a proper independent multi-link suspension. You do get better space in the rear trunk but handling and comfort is compromised. However, if you say you get better NVH just by going to torsion beam setup, that is ridiculous. All Japanese D-segment cars are running on multi-link rear suspension. Their NVH are good too especially Toyota ones , Honda is catching up. Only Mazda 6 has poor NVH .
Come-on . Dont lie us. Going torsion beam is a cost cutting measure, not to improve NVH. There are many other ways to improve NVH.
WAIT. All the articles from September 2018 regarding the next generation CX3 say the current car has multi link rear suspension.
This is NOT correct. The first and only generation already has a torsion beam. I’m looking at a Mazda brochure now. If only writers checked their work.
Fujiwara was talking about the new Mazda 3, which switched from a multi-link suspension to a torsion beam.