After a long time, I'm sitting in a Mazda again, paradoxically in the same model that I tested last time. This time, however, I earned that Mazda CX-3 with a new diesel version.
You can recognize the original "Mazdí" direction, which the automaker has been following for a long time, immediately after driving a few hundred meters. Its orientation towards the driver through excellent steering and chassis, or by using engines with "classic" volume is clearly visible and legible.
And what about the diesel engine, does it also fit into this philosophy? In terms of volume, it is definitely yes, in terms of driving experience, unfortunately, it is not at all.
Dynamic exterior appearance
The Mazda CX-3 has compact and integral shapes, its dynamics and flair are achieved in the individual details of the car. The front part traditionally has a large, chrome-lined mask. Its chrome plating then transitions very tastefully into the front headlights. A very interesting detail is the opening of the hood, which partly connects to the A-pillars, but also gives off an edge that extends into the entire side part of the car and, by gradually descending, connects to the rear wheel in an original way. A distinctive and pleasing element of this car is the plastic covering of the bumpers, thresholds and wheel rims, which look very robust. I praise the rear part for the handling of the taillights and for the shape and placement of the pair of chrome exhaust tips. Their position and size is beautifully balanced in the context of the rear. The overall decent impression of the tested car is underlined by the eighteen-inch wheels with low-profile shoes, the weakest link of the tested piece for me was its bland color.
Interior
The CX-3 model shares the chassis base with the Mazda 2, and the same is true of the interior itself. Within the dashboard, you will be surprised to find the air conditioning vents in its central part. A certain symmetry usually holds here. However, this is not the case with the CX-3. A certain asymmetry of this part can easily surprise, but nevertheless it is a very pleasant revival. I would definitely praise the steering wheel itself, its more subtle rim holds very well, its multi-functionality, i.e. control is logical and clear. The instrument panel in front of the driver works in the opposite guard than it was in the previous petrol CX-3 . The central motif here is the classic analog speedometer, while the somewhat titillating digital tachometer is hidden in the left part. The central tunnel then has HMI interface controls and a classic six-speed manual lever with an excellent gear shift.
The CX-3 offers plenty of space in the front seats. The position behind the wheel is pleasant, rather higher. Unfortunately, the spaciousness is noticeably worse in the rear seats, where there is not much legroom left. The luggage compartment has a pleasant 350 liters, a double bottom and, unfortunately, a slightly higher loading edge.
Diesel engine
The new turbocharged 18-cylinder diesel is based on its previous version, which had a volume of 1.5 liters. The new engine, like the old one, retains a high compression ratio of 14.8:1. The diesel motorization is certainly not easy in the presentation of this car company. We all know how great Mazda gasoline engines are.
Unfortunately, one of the downsides of this power unit is its turbocharging. Here, it's as if Mazda is sticking to its principles, referring slightly to history. That is, holding larger volumes of power units with the refusal of their turbocharging. And similarly historically, although in this context completely negatively, the new diesel also affects me. Specifically, the onset of the turbo itself, i.e. the supercharging of this engine, which comes with a significant and quite unpleasant delay.
Yes, it will probably be a habit, but it bothered me quite a bit in the beginning. Specifically, then between the first and second gear, where the delay is most obvious.
On the other hand, it is necessary to praise this engine for its consumption and refined operation. With regard to consumption, I used around 5.5 liters of diesel in urban traffic with the car. Circles and quiet driving will push this value below the five liter limit. Honestly, who buys a Mazda for consumption?
Chassis and steering
Mazda cars have always been very good to drive and thankfully continue to be. The same was the case with the tested diesel CX-3. Mazda is able to mix a very interesting cocktail from its chassis, steering, engine and perhaps even the scenery of the gear shift, which must entertain every driver.
The chassis of the CX-3 is somewhat tougher, but this supports the confidence of its chassis and the overall sporty character of the car. The steering is then pleasantly steep and precise.
Conclusion
The tested Mazda CX-3 is a car that offers a very good chassis, and even a hair better steering, as well as a pleasant exterior and a well-crafted interior. It is still an interesting and original car to drive, which can also offer economical driving in the diesel version.
The diesel Mazda CX-3 is then available from the second lowest CHALLENGE equipment and with a manual six-speed gearbox and front-axle drive only starts at a price of CZK 498,400 including VAT.
