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The 2021 Mazda CX-3 line-up arrives later this month with more equipment, new model variants, and a refreshed range of colour and trim options.
Headlining the changes is the range-wide inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard with the MZD Connect touchscreen infotainment system, as well as a limited-run 100th Anniversary Special Edition and a new Maxx Sport LE trim level.
All prices exclude on-road costs
If you’re looking for a more accurate idea of price, head over to the Mazda CX-3 website. You’ll also be able to compare the differences between each of the variants.
Per the 2020 model-year, Australian-delivered Mazda CX-3 models are exclusively powered by a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine, developing 110kW of power at 6000rpm and 195Nm of torque at 2800rpm.
Previously, 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre turbo-diesels were offered as an option, but have been culled from the local range due to low demand.
The Skyactiv-G petrol engine is available with six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions depending on variant, as well as standard front- or optional on-demand all-wheel drive – the latter exclusively available in conjunction with the six-speed auto.
Full engine and drive train specifications can be found on the Mazda CX-3 specs page.
Front-wheel drive manual versions of the CX-3 use a claimed 6.6L/100km on the combined cycle, while auto FWD versions drop that figure slightly to 6.3L/100km.
Meanwhile, automatic all-wheel drive models use a claimed 6.7L/100km combined.
All versions are equipped with idle start/stop technology.
Mazda hasn’t detailed any changes to the CX-3’s dimensions for 2021.
That means the CX-3 should retain its 4275mm length, 1765mm width and 1535mm height, as well as its 2570mm wheelbase.
Luggage capacity for both FWD and AWD models is rated at 264L with all five seats in place, expanding to 1174L with the second row folded.
Braked towing capacity is 1200kg for all models.
You can find detailed exterior and interior dimensions via the Mazda CX-3 specifications page.
The Mazda CX-3 is covered by the Japanese manufacturer’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty with roadside assistance for the same period.
Scheduled maintenance is required every 12 months or 10,000km (whichever comes first), with the first five services costing $330, $390, $330, $390 and $330.
Additional items include the cabin air filter ($97) which needs to be replaced every 40,000 kilometres, while brake fluid replacement will add $71 every 24 months or 40,000km.
The Mazda CX-3 wears a 2015-stamped five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on older test criteria.
It managed 36.44 out of 37.00 points, including perfect scores in the Side Impact and Pole tests, and 15.44 out of 16.00 in the Frontal Offset assessment.
For 2021 all models get an upgraded autonomous emergency braking system (4-80km/h for vehicles) which sees the addition of night-time pedestrian detection to the existing daytime function.
Other MY21 upgrades include an auto-dimming rear-view mirror for the Maxx Sport and Maxx Sport LE, as well as auto high-beam and lane departure warning for the sTouring.
Other range-wide safety technology includes a reversing camera with rear parking sensors, as well as dual front, front-side and side curtain airbags.
Maxx Sport variants and above score blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, in addition to automatic headlights.
For features like auto high-beam, lane departure warning, driver attention monitoring and traffic sign recognition, you’ll need to step up to the mid-range sTouring at a minimum, while the Akari models (and 100th Anniversary Special Edition) get adaptive cruise control with stop/go, adaptive headlights and a 360-degree camera system.
There’s further information on all the safety features on offer within the official Mazda CX-3 website and within the brochure.
CX-3 Neo Sport includes:
CX-3 Maxx Sport adds:
CX-3 Maxx Sport LE adds:
CX-3 sTouring adds:
CX-3 Akari adds:
Akari LE adds:
100th Anniversary Special Edition adds:
Premium paints add $495, including the new Polymetal Grey Metallic which joins the CX-3 palette for the first time.
Click the images for the full gallery
Mazda have a configurator tool on the official website you can use to build one of these to your own specifications.
To see all the various options and inclusions across the Mazda CX-3 variants, download the official brochure. You can also find a list of original accessories on offer here.
MORE: Mazda CX-3 news and reviews MORE: Everything Mazda
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James Wong is an automotive journalist and former PR consultant, recognised among Australia’s most prolific motoring writers.
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