Mazda CX-3
Engines: 105 HP (diesel) up to 150 hp (petrol)
Price: from 10,900 euros
Occupant safety (Euro NCAP crash test 2015): Four stars
The 120 hp naturally aspirated petrol engine is particularly popular. The all-wheel drive variant plays a supporting role in this country.
He can: Enrich everyday life with charm and comfort. Short- suits him better than long-distance. And ideally there are only two of you on the road. The trunk format is still okay, but the rear is just cut. When tuning the chassis, dynamics was clearly the trump card. It’s firm and springs dry, in combination with the direct steering CX-3 pleasantly agile. The sober interior style is a matter of taste, fuel consumption is a more serious issue. Stop and go drives the consumption to unpleasant heights; the Skyactiv engines are only reasonably economical with a gentle foot on the accelerator.
TÜV verdict
landing gear
The small crossover completed this chapter almost flawlessly: Regardless of whether it was axle suspension, axle springs, damping, drive shafts or steering system – the young one Mazda proves to be very reliable in all respects. There are no rust problems either.
The only problem chapter: taillights and turn signal system do not provide any reason for complaints, but with the front lighting it is seen more often than average grim the end.
Here, too, there is hardly any reason for criticism. Brake hoses and lines are in perfect condition, and the function and effectiveness of the brakes on the test bench do not give any reason for a note in the defect report. The brake discs are also of the durable variety, but the CX-3 also not a frequent driver car.
Another impeccable chapter: Oil loss in only one of 1000 vehicles, the slightest AU problems. The exhaust systems are tight and work – obviously, savings were not made at the wrong end here.
