Reviewing the small Mazda CX-3 SUV today – our top- selling small SUV, in fact it outsells its nearest rival by 2 to 1, despite arriving back in 2016. Part of the reason is its appealing looks, youthful with a bobtail appearance and a high hip point over the rear wheels. I’m driving the 2.0-litre six-speed automatic Mazda CX- 3 Evolve, the third-tier model of a five-model range at $35,200 drive-away which comes with a few extra niceties like 18-inch alloy wheels, a lighter interior with tan synthetic leather highlights and front parking sensors on top of a comprehensive equipment list with some excellent passive and active safety features. Updates have kept the Mazda CX-3 in-line with other later offerings, but it shows its age in its small information screen and older software, but thankfully retains dials for climate control and a console mounted rotary dial for radio, sat/nav and phone connectivity. Good front interior room, tight in the rear with the bob tail design limiting boot space but this aside it will be primarily used as a two-seater or for a small family with young children. The Mazda CX-3 may have been around awhile, but one can quickly see why its maintained its popularity. Warranty, five years/unlimited km. I’m David Berthon

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