Upmarket Mazda: 2019 CX-3 Adds Standard Equipment for Not Much Extra Dough

Mazda has released pricing details for the 2019 CX-3. Refreshed for the upcoming model year, the subcompact crossover doesn’t change its already handsome looks all that much, but it does include more standard tech. This translates into a higher MSRP.

However, we doubt many buyers will mind a modest increase in price when the new CX-3 goes on sale later this month. All models now receive direct tire pressure monitoring, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control as standard equipment. In addition to the gently touched-up visuals, tacking on an extra $290 to the pre-destination base price doesn’t sting all that badly.

While we would have loved to see Mazda add something other than the 2.0-liter four-cylinder on higher-trim vehicles, the unit’s 148 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque has proven adequate in the past and can be had with i-ACTIV all-wheel drive for an extra $1,400.

The subtle visual enhancements include a new front grille, additional chrome accents, restyled LED taillights, optional 18-inch aluminum wheels and a new “Soul Red Crystal” paint scheme. For the interior, drivers are treated to redesigned seats (which Mazda claims are more supportive), improved sound deadening, and a redesigned center console offering more elbow room.

Unfortunately, a lot of that open space comes via the addition of an electronic parking brake — which looks modern but limits the fun that can be had in a snowy parking lot. Assuming you’re more mature than we are, you probably won’t miss the classic handbrake.

The base-level Mazda CX-3 Sport now starts at $20,390 and comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, dual USB ports, a rear-view camera and Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio. The 7-inch display screen has voice command but can also be navigated through a control knob, same as on the outgoing model.

If you want more tech, you can option the Sport i-ACTIVSENSE Package for an additional $1,100. The suite includes loads of additional features, including Advanced Smart City Brake Support with pedestrian detection, Smart Brake Support, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane departure warning, automatic high beam control, adaptive front-lighting, additional driving displays, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic climate control, and automatic LED headlights.

The $22,475 CX-3 Touring adds a few of those features, bringing down the still-optional i-ACTIVSENSE Package by $100, but adding a ton of style. In addition to automatic wipers, climate control, and headlights, the Touring trim provides drivers with heated side mirrors, keyless entry, 18-inch wheels, and black pillar accents. It also comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. A preferred equipment package chucks in satellite radio, a Bose seven-speaker premium sound system, moonroof, and a cargo cover for $1,410.

However, if you want the works but aren’t interested in the CX-5, the 2019 CX-3 Grand Touring starts at $25,745. It comes with every feature found on the other trims, plus the safety suite, auto-dimming rearview mirror, parchment or black full-leather seats, paddle shifters, navigation, moonroof, heated steering wheel, and extra forward illumination. Visual upgrades come from chrome accents on the front bumper and side sills, as well as those LED combo taillights. Customers can also splurge on a six-way power driver’s seat, power driver’s lumbar support, and 2-position driver memory system for another $710.

Check it out for yourself if any of that sounds like it’s up your street. Dealerships should have them in stock before the end of this month.

[Images: Mazda]