If we would have to choose three words with which we'd describe Mazda's recent batch of offerings, it would have to be clean, simple and edgy. The Japanese carmaker has progressively been leaning more and more toward a "less is more" design trend, as seen in the CX-5 and refreshed 6, and even in its most recent concept creations, the Kai and the Vision Coupe.
The latest Mazda showing signs of going minimal is the CX-3, with the reveal of the subcompact crossover's refresh at the 2018 New York International Auto Show.
From afar, the changes are subtle--almost too subtle, even. The most obvious change is with the crossover's sleek new taillight design. There's a new grille and additional chrome accents up front, plus piano black bits surrounding the foglights. The CX-3 features new 18-inch wheels, too.
Inside, the front seats have been redesigned with improving vibration levels and supportiveness in mind, and Mazda says higher-end models will pack better seating surfaces. The dashboard and door trim now features a new "suede-like" material, and a center armrest is now available in the rear.
The crossover's SkyActiv engine and overall performance saw an upgrade as well, with the 2.0-liter unit's torque being bumped up to 200Nm, and the availability of Mazda's G-Vectoring Control technology.
Overall, it's a subtle but significant update. Do you agree, or do you wish Mazda had done a more drastic refresh?
