This is Your First Glimpse at the New Mazda CX-3

The Budget-Friendly Mazda Crossover Returns

Mazda currently has a pretty solid lineup of affordable vehicles. There’s the Mazda3 sedan and hatchback, as well as the CX-30 for those in the market for a sub-$30,000 crossover with standard all-wheel drive. Those three cars have been serving the automaker well so far this year, and another model will join them soon.

That model is the CX-3, and it’s set to be returning soon. Mazda previously announced its comeback, but for the first time ever, the company has given a sneak peek of the subcompact crossover.

More Like a Baby CX-5

You won’t see much of the car for now, although we can make out some details from the shadowy silhouette. By the looks of it, it won’t be like the Vision X-Concept that was shown during last year’s Japan Mobility Show. With that in mind, the concept’s look could likely be reserved for a jacked-up version of the Mazda2.

Looking at the outline of the blacked-out car, it appears different from other Mazda crossovers in the lineup. Based on the sneaky teaser, the next-generation CX-3 could look more like a shrunken-down CX-5. It looks bigger than its predecessor, and there’s a strong likelihood it’s more than a chopped-down CX-30.

When Is It Coming?

The previous-generation CX-3 was introduced way back in 2014 and actually lasted until this year in select markets. It had a few facelifts during its time, but the car itself never really had anything major going on with it for over a decade. But as Mazda is now trying to chase a little bit more volume, the all-new model couldn’t come any sooner.

It’s expected that the redesigned CX-3 will make its world premiere soon. In Mazda’s own words, it’ll have a phased introduction to ASEAN, Japan, and other markets from 2027. It’ll be made in Thailand, and there may be some degree of electrification in the powertrain options, as the facility there will be the manufacturing hub for hybrids in Asian markets – and possibly the world.

In the meantime, we wait for the full reveal. Judging by Mazda’s statement, we might see the final product by later this year at the earliest, or during the first half of 2027. If so, the redesigned CX-3 could be for the 2028 model year, but given that it’ll be made in Thailand, the odds of it coming to the U.S appear somewhat slim for now.