Best Years for the Mazda CX-3

The Mazda CX-3 debuted in 2014 and has made quite the splash since. A sporty subcompact crossover, the Mazda CX-3 combines a fun driving experience with excellent safety features and ratings. If you’re looking to buy a used Mazda CX-3, you should be aware of the best years for reliability as well as common issues. Let’s take a closer look.

2016-2018 and 2020-2021 Used Mazda CX-3

When it comes to the used Mazda CX-3, the best years to consider are 2016 through 2018 model years. If you want a used Mazda CX-3 that is more recent, then the 2020 and 2021 model years are also good choices. All model years of the Mazda CX-3 can seat up to five people, but the rear seat is better for children than adults. Some model years of the CX-3 can tow up to 2,400 pounds when properly equipped. Most used Mazda CX-3 models come with FWD, but some are also equipped with AWD. The specs for the used Mazda CX-3 from 2016 to 2018 are basically the same.

All models make 146 horsepower and get up to 29 MPG in the city and35 MPG on the highway. All models in this year’s range also have a five out of five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, and they also have a three out of five reliability rating from J.D. Power. The 2020 and 2021 used Mazda CX-3 has slightly more horsepower at 148. The fuel economy for these models is basically the same as before. The safety and reliability ratings are also the same.

Common Used Mazda CX-3 Issues

The used Mazda CX-3 does have some issues to report, despite its overall good reliability. The 2019 model has the most reported issues and can be considered a model year to avoid as it has only average reliability ratings. The main issue reported for the used Mazda CX-3 is the AC system, which is known to malfunction after two to three years. This can be an expensive repair, but if it happens under warranty, you’ll probably be covered for most or all of it.

Used Mazda CX-3 Overview

The Mazda CX-3 is a popular subcompact crossover due to its fun driving experience and good fuel economy in urban environments. Inside, you’ll find many quality materials to give the CX-3 a luxurious feel. Leather seats are an optional feature for the CX-3. The CX-3 also has a number of great tech features, including a seven-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple and Android compatibility, a USB charging port, and six speakers. A long list of safety features also come standard on the CX-3, which is part of why it has such high safety ratings. If you’re in the market for a used Mazda CX-3, you’ve definitely made a good choice as this is a fun, reliable, and safe vehicle. The key is to look at the model years mentioned above and avoid the 2019 and the earliest models before all the bugs were worked out.