In a market saturated with ever-evolving compact SUVs, the 2025 Mazda CX-3 SP20 stands as a testament to enduring design and brand consistency. While not a brand-new model, the CX-3 has been a fixture in Mazda’s lineup since 2015, and its latest SP20 variant continues to prove that longevity doesn’t mean stagnation.
Mazda’s current direction leans heavily into premium styling, tactile interiors, and a strong value proposition—all of which are evident in the SP20.
The SP20 replaces the previous Limited trim and brings a fresh aesthetic with gloss-black wheel arches, a two-tone colour scheme featuring a black roof, and upgraded interior appointments.
What We Like and Dislike About The 2025 Mazda CX-3 SP20
| What we like | What we don’t like |
| The drive Stylish design Premium interior Quality finish Heads-up display | The engine can sound buzzy at times No hybrid option Limited rear space Infotainment feels dated No wireless phone charger |
What’s In The 2025 Mazda CX-3 Range?
The 2025 Mazda CX-3 is offered in three variants in New Zealand: GLX, GSX, and the top-of-the-range SP20. All models share the same powertrain, a 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, driving through the front wheels across the board.
The entry-level GLX provides essential features and 16-inch wheels, while the mid-tier GSX adds upgraded infotainment, alloy wheels, and additional safety tech. The SP20 elevates the offering with premium touches, including a gloss-black roof, wheel arches, and bumpers. Inside, there are leather/suede seats complete with power adjustment and memory for the driver, as well as heated front seats.
- GLX $35,490
- GSX $38,490
- SP20 $42,190 (our test car)
2025 Mazda CX-3 Colour Range
- Soul Red Crystal Metallic*++
- Machine Grey Metallic++
- Snowflake White Pearl Mica
- Jet Black Mica
- Aero Grey Metallic*
- Platinum Quartz Metallic*
- Polymetal Grey Metallic* (our test car, with the Brilliant Black roof)
*These body colours are available with the Brilliant Black roof (SP20 only)
++ $700 extra
For a full list of specs and options available for the Mazda CX-3 SP20, head on over to Mazda New Zealand’s website
How Does The 2025 Mazda CX-3 SP20 Compare To Its Competition?
This area of the market is now a mix of petrol and petrol/hybrid offerings, and fair to say most are offering newer designs to the market than the CX-3.
| Make/ Model | Engine | Power/ Torque kW/Nm | Seats | Fuel L/100km | Towing Capacity kg | Boot Space litres | Price $ |
| Volkswagen T-Roc Life | 1.4L 4-cyl Turbo Petrol | 110/ 250 | 5 | 7.0 | 630 / 1,100 | 445 | $52,490 |
| Kia Seltos LTD | 2.0L 4-cyl Petrol | 110 / 180 | 5 | 7.7 | 600 / 1,100 | 433 | $44,850 |
| Hyundai Kona Elite | 2.0L 4-cyl Petrol | 110 / 180 | 5 | 7.3 | 600 / 1,300 | 407 | $42,990 |
| Mazda CX-3 SP20 | 2.0L 4-cyl Petrol | 110 / 195 | 5 | 7.0 | 655 / 1,200 | 264 | $42,190 |
| Omoda C5 EX | 1.5L 4-Cylinder Turbo Petrol | 108/210 | 5 | 6.9 | 640 / 1,000 | 378 | $39,990 |
| Toyota Yaris Cross GX Hybrid | 1.5L 3-cyl Petrol/Hybrid | 67 / 120 | 5 | 3.6 | 400 / 400 | 390 | $39,490 |
| Haval Jolion Ultra Hybrid | 1.5L 4-Cylinder Turbo Petrol/Hybrid | 140/375 | 5 | 5.1 | 750 /1,300 | 255 | $38,990 |
| Nissan Qashqai ST-L | 1.3L 4-Cylinder Turbo Petrol | 110/250 | 5 | 6.8 | 750 /1,500 | 429 | $38,990 |
| Suzuki Vitara JLX Hybrid | 1.4L 4-cyl Turbo Petrol/Hybrid | 95 / 235 | 5 | 5.6 | 600 / 1,500 | 375 | $37,790 |
Please note that DriveLife does its best to ensure the information above is correct at the time of publication; however, prices, specifications and models can change over time. Please bear that in mind when comparing models in the comparison table.
First Impressions Of The 2025 Mazda CX-3 SP20
It’s been a long time between drinks for the Mazda CX-3. This little crossover SUV has been a familiar sight on New Zealand roads for years, and while the segment has seen a host of new rivals, Mazda has kept the CX-3 fresh with continuous updates. The latest in this evolution is the SP20, which aims to keep its head above water in a fiercely competitive market.
The SP20 immediately makes a visual statement. The two-tone colour scheme with a Brilliant Black contrast roof and matching gloss-black wheel arches gives it a pert, purposeful stance that still looks sharp next to Mazda’s latest-generation SUVs. Even though our review car is not the “Soul red” (a stunning colour), it’s still a great-looking car in the mid grey. The gloss black grille and black chrome signature wing add a subtle aggression that we’re a fan of. It’s a reminder that a well-proportioned, thoughtful design can be timeless.
What’s The Interior Like In The 2025 Mazda CX-3 SP20?
Step inside, and it’s a familiar story of classic Mazda quality. The interior is not an all-new design, but it’s far from cheap. There’s an undeniable premium feel, with pleasantly tactile surfaces and a logical, stripped-back layout that makes everything feel sturdy and predictable. Mazda’s attention to detail is a cut above the competition; overall build quality is excellent.
The SP20’s leather and suede seat trim with a “DriveLife-like” arrow pattern provides a nice touch of class, and the driver’s seat is power-adjustable with a two-position memory function.
The seating position is higher than a regular hatchback, giving that SUV-like commanding view. The addition of front heated seats is a welcome bonus for those chilly mornings of late. While the seats are on the firm side, they are comfortable. If I were to be picky, I’d like a little more side bolstering – only because the car does twisty roads so well.
The dashboard setup is a masterclass in simplicity and user-friendliness. While some rivals are going for a screen-heavy approach, Mazda has stuck with a more traditional layout, and it works. The controls are tactile and exactly where you’d expect them to be. The instrument cluster is attractive and simply laid out, with the central feature an analogue rev-counter, and all other information being digital, including the speed. It’s always easy to read.
The head-up display is also a welcome addition – always a fan. An acrylic screen pops up out of the dash to display current speed, key road signs, and navigation when using the native Mazda system.
The steering wheel is leather-bound and has all the usual button sets for cruise control on the right and audio/phone controls on the left. There are also auto options for wipers and lights, including high beam, and these work very well.
In the centre of the dash, an 8-inch MZD Connect Infotainment screen is mounted logically on the top of the dashboard, which puts it right in the driver’s line of sight. However, the infotainment system is where the CX-3 SP20 shows its age the most. While the size of the screen is adequate, and the images are clear, the processing speed is a little on the slow side. Moreover, the touchscreen functionality only works when the car is stationary; at all other times, you must use the rotary dial on the centre console.
One partial upgrade is the inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay, and while this is a major convenience, Android Auto still requires a cable.
Beneath the infotainment screen are the air conditioning/ventilation controls, a standard set of three rotary knobs, together with buttons for the three-stage heaters for the front seats. If ventilation knobs are a leftover from its earlier design, then great. These work so well, you can find them by memory – no need to navigate a touchscreen. I also love the classic rotary “jet-engine” air vents in the SP20; the inner ring is highlighted in a cool copper-bronze colour, matching a highlight seam of stitching across the dash.
In the lower centre console, there’s a small tray that houses a couple of USB ports, a single 12V outlet, and is also the ideal spot to place your phone. There is, however, a notable absence of a wireless charging pad. This is a key omission for a top-spec model in 2025, especially when the car offers wireless Apple CarPlay. A wired connection is still required for Android Auto and to keep your phone charged. Unexpectedly, even with the car stationary, the touchscreen could not be used with Android Auto, only via the rotary knob, or directly on the phone. Altogether, this area feels like a missed opportunity and a little out of step with what you’ll find in newer Mazda models.
Around the auto transmission selector are a set of quick key buttons to functions within the infotainment and navigation. Also, there is an electric hand brake with an auto hold function. Like in many cars, it needs to be re-selected every journey. I just wish it could simply remember your preference.
Further behind are a couple of drink holders, located one behind the other to save space. The second can be removed to increase storage in the rather small and partially open storage bin located under a hinged armrest. Further storage up front is available in the decent-sized glove box, and bottle holders are integral in all doors. Our review car was complete with a Mazda First Aid kit in the glove box – top marks for that.
While the front of the car feels spacious enough for the class, the back half of the car can feel claustrophobic due to the small rear windows and limited space. Headroom is fine, but legroom is tight for adults, and if travelling any distance, it’s best to negotiate space with those in the front. The width, too, can be challenging. The back row is best suited for children or short trips. Unfortunately for those in the rear, there are neither USB power outlets nor dedicated air vents.
The boot is easy-access, and the floor panel can be positioned flush with the loading lip or lowered to increase space. Its size is consistent with it being a smaller car and simply appointed without tie-down points or a power outlet. Beneath the floor is a space saver wheel, complete with a basic tool set.
A second button is located on the rear hatch adjacent to the regular boot release button, a great example of Mazda’s thoughtfulness. This second button allows you to lock all the doors and the hatch from the back of the car, without using the fob or walking to the front doors. Nice.
What’s The 2025 Mazda CX-3 SP20 Like To Drive?
The Mazda CX-3 SP20 proves that a small SUV doesn’t have to be boring. It’s an easy-to-drive, nimble little car that feels right at home in the city, and not out of place on the highway, but it’s on a twisty backroad that it really shines. The 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine is not a powerhouse, but with a kerb weight of just under 1,300kg, it’s more than eager and happy to rev. Paired with a slick six-speed automatic transmission (yay – not a CVT), it works well to find the right gear quickly.
This car has a sporty edge to it that very few of its rivals can match. The steering is sharp and precise, with a pleasingly weighty feel that builds confidence in the corners. The suspension is on the firm side, which is a key part of the car’s dynamic character. There’s minimal body roll, and the CX-3 happily tucks into corners with a reassuring grip. On a well-maintained piece of tarmac, it’s a genuinely fun car to drive and easily one of the most entertaining small SUVs on sale. Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control further enhances this, subtly adjusting engine torque to provide a more precise steering feel.
The trade-off for the CX-3’s excellent handling is in its ride quality. That firm suspension, while great for cornering, can be a bit jarring over our notoriously chopped-up roads. Hit a deep pothole or a sharp speed bump, and the car struggles to absorb the impact gracefully, sending a noticeable thud through the cabin.
Road noise is also a key factor here. The car’s 18-inch wheels and lack of substantial soundproofing compared to Mazda’s newer models mean that tyre roar on coarse chip seal surfaces is noticeable and can be intrusive on longer motorway drives. The naturally aspirated engine can also be vocal when you push it hard, but never unpleasantly so.
The SP20 has a Sport drive mode, which holds the gears a little longer and makes the car feel more responsive. It’s not a night-and-day transformation, but it does add a bit of a racy edge to the drive when you need it. For most city driving, the standard mode is more than adequate.
Braking performance is solid, with a reassuringly firm pedal feel and strong stopping power. The car remains stable and composed even under hard braking, a testament to its well-sorted chassis.
The SP20 puts the driver at the centre of the experience. The seat placement is spot-on, giving you a commanding view of the road without feeling overly tall. It’s a car-like driving position that makes you feel connected to the road. Driver visibility is good thanks to the tall body and large windows, though the rising window line in the rear can make the side view a little restrictive for smaller passengers.
The CX-3 SP20 comes with a suite of safety features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind-spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross-traffic Alert, which are welcome additions.
The Mazda Radar (adaptive) Cruise Control with stop and go works well, anywhere from crawling traffic to the motorway. I was impressed by how well it achieved my target speed down steep descents, changing down as needed to keep within 1km/h of the set point. When not using the cruise control and say dragging the brakes to manage my speed down a long descent, I liked that the car would automatically change down, assisting me with added engine braking.
Another of the safety systems, the lane departure warning, is quite effective. A synthesised sound like a tyre on a rumble strip plays through the speaker on the corresponding side of the car, and its message is reinforced with flashes on the HUD. All in all, it has a solid, if not cutting-edge, safety package.
The reversing camera displays its image on the Infotainment screen. It is welcome as rearward vision is a bit limited due to the rising window line and smaller rear window. Its picture is clear; however, it only offers a single view with static guidelines supplemented with proximity sensors.
During my time with the car, I drove a mix of city and open roads covering more than 400 km. Without aiming for maximum efficiency, the car averaged 7.4 l/100km – slightly higher than Mazda’s official 7.0 l/100km but still competitive. It can be a little on the thirsty side, especially when pushed in Sport mode, but for a non-turbo, non-hybrid engine, it holds its own.
Fred’s Point of View
If there was one takeaway from my time with the CX-3, it’s that if you build something right the first time, it stands the test of time. That was how it was for me with the CX-3; it’s showing its age, but it is still so very good. Sure, the engine makes itself known pretty regularly, but you spy the fit and finish – so good – and then there’s the sheer driveablity that makes every Mazda just that bit special.
The chassis was a surprise too, I don’t recall it being that delightful, and not having Driver Attention Monitoring was bliss. If there was one thing I did not like that Pete did, it was the car’s tendency to change down gears when going down a hill using adaptive cruise control; down Ngaraunga Gorge where it’s 80km/h, the CX-3 changed down to third gear, meaning lots of engine noise and undoubtedly lots more fuel used. It just seemed a bit over the top.
My last takeaway for this car will be the new model, then the current version has run its course. I can only imagine how good that car will be, if this ten-year old CX-3 is anything to go by.
READ ON TO CHECK OUT OUR SUMMARY OF THE 2025 MAZDA CX-3 SP20.
2025 Mazda CX-3 SP20 – Specifications
| Vehicle Type | SUV |
| Starting Price | $42,190 |
| Price as Tested | 2.0L SKYACTIV-G Petrol, 16-valve DOHC |
| Engine | 110 /195 |
| Power, Torque kW/Nm | $42,190 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic with tiptronic |
| Spare Wheel | Space saver, temporary |
| Kerb Weight, Kg | 1,294 |
| Length x Width x Height mm | 4,275 x 1,765 x 1,535 mm |
| Boot Space / Cargo Capacity, Litres (seats up/seats down) | 264 litres / 1,17 |
| Fuel tank capacity, litres | 48 |
| Fuel Economy, L/100km | Advertised Spec – Combined – 7.0 Real-World Test – Combined – 7.4 Low Usage: 0-6 / Medium Usage 6-12 / High Usage 12+ |
| Towing Capacity Kg, unbraked/braked | 655 / 1,200 |
| Turning circle metres | 10.6 Small: 6-10m / Medium 10-12m / Large 12m+ |
| Warranty | 5 years / unlimited km new vehicle warranty 5 years / unlimited km Mazda on call Roadside Assistance 5 years / 100,000 km Servicing at no extra cost |
| Safety information | ANCAP Rating – Not Rated from January 2023 ANCAP Rating – 5 Stars – 2015 to Dec 2022 Rightcar.govt.nz – 5 Stars CX-3Rightcar.govt.nz – 5 Stars CX-3 |
Have you enjoyed this review? Be sure to join our monthly email newsletter list so you don’t miss a single car review!
