2016 Mazda CX-3 Crossover Looks Great from Every Angle

While most red-blooded men are thinking of their new MX-5 / Miata, Mazda has unveiled a pocket sized SUV that not only looks just as good as the roadster, but could also fit the needs of every small family out there.

What is it?

The CX-3 is a crossover, not quite an SUV in the true sense of the word, but not a regular car either. It sits higher off the ground than a Mazda2 that it's based on and its black plastic wheel arches make it appear even more rugged than it actually is.

The CX-3 will launch in Japan and Europe during the spring of 2015 and will arrive in the US a bit later next year when production at the new Mexican factory ensues.

How big is it?

Even though it's based on a subcompact car, the CX-3 is rather big. We think Mazda intentionally made it larger than most subcompact crossovers on the market in order to deliver a more imposing and practical look.

The crossover rides on the same 2,570 mm (101.2 in) wheelbase as the Mazda2. But that's where the similarities end. Bumper to bumper, it's longer by 215 mm or 8.5 inches, reaching 4,275mm. If we were to compare it to Nissan's famous crossover lineup, the CX-3 straddles the space between the Juke and the Qashqai, which is a good thing considering most buyers now deem the Juke to be impractical.

Do we like it?

In one word? Yes. Unlike Mazdas of old, the design is very serious and masculine. The headlights were inspired by the eyes of wild animals and there are creases down the sides.

It will be offered with both front- and all-wheel drive versions in most markets. The North American model will be available with a bigger 2-liter Skyactiv engine (exclusively with a 6-speed auto) instead of the 1.5 you get on a Mazda2. The European buyers will also have access to the excellent new 1.5-liter Skyactiv diesel, which is probably the most efficient engine Mazda has ever made. It will be offered with both a six-speed manual and a conventional automatic.