The updated Mazda CX-3 2019 had its global debut two months ago at the New York International Auto Show but not until today does it go on sale in the Japanese market, its homeland. Some changes that are worthy of note are mostly from what’s inside the B-segment CUV which consists of a new diesel powertrain while the exterior transformations are insignificant.
Going into details of the 1.8L SkyActive-D turbo 4-cylinder engine, it comes in place of the smaller 1.5L unit. With this upgrade, Mazda promises the new model offers better real-world fuel and emissions. Also welcoming the arrival of a variable-geometry turbocharger and ultra-high-response multi-hole injectors, the Mazda CX-3 2019 is capable of churning out 270 Nm between 1600 and 2500 rpm and 116 PS at 4000 rpm which means a 20 Nm and 11 PS increase.
Not until today does it go out on sale in the Japanese market
The oil burner works in a conjunction with 6-speed manual and automatic gearbox with either 2WD or AWD. Thanks to the drivetrain, the CX-3 that gets powered by diesel has a fuel economy figure of between 23.2 and 19.2 kpl.
Especially, the 2L SkyActiv-G naturally-aspirated petrol engine which has remained unseen in Japan now comes available, more interestingly, it’s been upgraded from the new Mazda CX-5. Upgrades include the low-friction piston with updated high-dispersion injector and edge-cut heads to reduce real-world emissions and fuel consumption.
>>> Read more: Japanese-spec Mazda CX-3 2018 updated with a new diesel engine
Video: 2019 Mazda CX-3 facelift now in Japan
The improved powertrain doles out 195 Nm at 2800 rpm and 150 PS at 6000 rpm and gains a grades ranging between 15.2 and 16.2 kpl in the Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure in terms of fuel consumption. While the 6-speed automatic gearbox offers the AWD, the 2WD is equipped for the 6-speed manual.
The chassis also contributes significant changes into the new Mazda CX-3 2019 featuring latest technologies. It introduced new anti-roll bars, dampers and spring with retuned G-vectoring Control and electric power steering systems, so it’s safe to say the new model gains the even smoother posture. To better the ride quality, the vehicle attains softer tires for the options of 18-inch wheel models.
The new CX-3 grasps changes from 4-millimeter thicker rear windscreen, more sound-deadened headliner, improved door seals, and thicker door skins. The result is the cabin becomes much quieter when vibrations are helped reduced with the new tires. Inside the cabin, the front seat cushions even emulates the high-damping urethane from the CX-8 which surely boost the comfort.
The improved powertrain doles out 195 Nm at 2800 rpm and 150 PS at 6000 rpm
While the 6-speed automatic gearbox offers the AWD, the 2WD is offered on the 6-speed manual
As the fact that the existing model is already awesome with its look, it comes as no surprise the new CX-3 receives only minor styling tweaks which are the double chrome slats come with the 6-point grille and the chrome accents one the side skirts and front corners are expected to bring some sense of forward motions.
Speaking of the rear, what’s worth saying about is the CX-5-styled light guides and the redesigned tail lamps which puts on a more machined and cylindrical look. The new metallic sheen 18-inch wheels are given a multifaceted 5-double-spoke design. The exterior’s change of look is completed with gloss black fog lights edges and window pillars along with an option of the new Soul Red Crystal paint.
There will be an endless story to applaud the Mazda CX-3 2019’s new interior changes. For starters, the slightly revamped dashboard which gets rid of the existing full-width air vent design. An interesting upgrade of the handbrake which is now an electronic parking brake from the manual lever helps clears more room so that an appropriate padded armrest is located there.
Another new armrest is designed to comfort the rear occupants with built-in cupholders. Upgraded door seals, thicker headliner, tailgate glass, and door panels contribute to a calmer, more refined cabin. Upgrades in materials with suede-like trim embellish the door panels and the dashboard along with maturer interior color schemes.
>>> Read more: Mazda CX-3 2018 Philippines review
The slightly revamped dashboard gets rid of the existing full-width air vent design
The interior features maturer interior color schemes
An interesting upgrade of the handbrake which is now an electronic parking brake from the manual lever
Mazda decided to introduce the all-new improved Advanced Smart City Brake Support in the CX-3 with latest Stop & Go function and nighttime pedestrian detection. All models are equipped with an automatic dimming rear-view mirror, and a 360-degree camera.
What’s more, Mazda has planned to release a special editions Exclusive Mods CX-3 which follows the top-end diesel and petrol L Package variant run by the automatic transmission. The model gets the additions which are the white dash trim, red Nappa leather upholstery, ultraviolet & infrared-attenuating front side windows and windscreen, and dark gloss 18-inch alloy wheels. However, the Eternal Blue Mica colors and Titanium Flash Mica won’t be available in this Mazda CX-3 2019.
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