For 2019, the Mazda CX-3 receives a refresh that includes new exterior touches, a very slight increase in engine output, redesigned seats, and front and rear center armrests. Some features have also been shuffled between trim levels, and advanced safety features are available across the lineup.
Pros Attractive and comfortable interior Engaging driving experience Impressive fuel economy for a crossover Good selection of available driver aids and active safety features
Cons Suspension tuning may be too firm for some Cramped rear seat Below-average cargo space
The 2019 Mazda CX-3 fails to launch in the crossover-SUV space race.
Pros Great, simple exterior shape Good standard touchscreen Standard advanced safety features Competitive fuel economy
Cons Cramped rear seat Not much cargo room with seats up Finicky infotainment system Small safety demerit
the 2019 CX-3 retains its trapezoidal bar grille but has a new inner grille design. New lower chrome trim on the sides complements the carryover side-sill chrome slat, while the headlights carry on unchanged. The rear lights, however, see a new design that’s more similar to those in front, with a round eye accented by straight lines.Inside, Mazda replaced the prior cable-operated parking brake with an electronic unit with an automatic hold feature and incorporated it into the center console next to the rotary infotainment dial. That change opens up some real estate on the console, and the mode selector has been relocated behind the shifter’s PRND indicator, the previous gloss-black surround is gone, the cupholders are repositioned, and the armrest gets a comfier makeover.
Mazda says the front seats, which can be ordered with full leather on top trims for the first time, have been completely redesigned to be wider and more comfortable. The dashboard wears new faux-suede appliqués, the climate-control dials feature flashy red accents, and the rear seats have a new fold-down center armrest with cupholders. Together, these small changes add up to a tidier and classier look.
Visually, the 2019 Honda HR-V is refreshed with revised bumpers, headlights including LED daytime running lights, grille, and taillights.The HR-V’s base trim includes a multi-angle rearview camera, halogen projector headlights, Bluetooth streaming audio, 17-inch aluminum wheels, and a 5.0-inch infotainment screen.
Pros Voluminous, configurable interior Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on most trims Impressive handling
Cons No more manual transmission Powertrain combo is weak and noisy Integrated navigation is only available on top-line Touring trim
Refreshed front and rear styling New Sport and Touring trim levels New center screen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Honda Sensing suite adds multiple available safety features
Pros Average-size adults fit comfortably in the front and back Clever cargo solutions make it more versatile than rivals Better than most competitors on fuel economy Excellent outward visibility
Cons Climate control interface isn't as good as in other Honda vehicles Front seats are narrow and uncomfortable Engine noise and vibration are palpable Unimpressive power output results in lackluster acceleration
