mazda cx 3 2023 review Page 5

The 2023 Mazda CX-3 is the small SUV that still thinks it’s a hot hatch—light on its feet, eager in corners, and perfectly sized for tight Aussie car parks. The cabin feels a class up in materials, though the infotainment and driver tech are showing their age like a favourite pair of boots. Around town it’s a gem: responsive 2.0‑litre petrol, easy visibility, and a ride that’s firm but not back-breaking unless you hit lunar craters. Downsides? The rear seat and boot are snug, there’s no hybrid option, and highway noise can gatecrash the party on coarse-chip bitumen. If you value style and driving fun over outright space, it’s still a cheeky, charming pick.