Small 2WD SUV under $35,000

Mazda CX-3 Maxx

Australia’s SUV obsession has exploded in recent times and manufacturers are creating niches to cash in wherever they can.

This has spawned a light-to-small vehicle in 2WD guise, raised a few centimetres and with a touch of plastic on the guards to create that SUV look.

The CX-3 is the undisputed king in this category, notching up multiple wins and a previous judges’ choice award since it was released to the market, and is the vehicle by which others in this category are benchmarked.

On paper, there isn’t much between the three finalists in terms of engine outputs. The CX-3’s 2.0-litre has 109kW and 192Nm, and is coupled to a slick-shifting six-speed auto in a combination that outshines the other finalists. Add to that the best fuel economy, if only by a whisker to the Honda HR-V, and the CX-3 starts to look unstoppable.

Engine noise does intrude the cabin when the engine revs rise, but this is expected in this class. Sharp pricing sees the Maxx variant similar to the entry level models from Honda and Hyundai. This allows a smarter and more premium feel for the CX-3.

Mazda trumps the HR-V and Hyundai Kona in the all-important safety stakes. The CX-3 range is fitted with forward and reverse Smart City Brake Support. Additionally, Maxx grade and above get blind spot monitoring and rear cross safety alert, none of which are available on the HR-V or Kona in the grade assessed.

If size matters to you in this category then the CX-3 might not be your first choice. While front occupants are well catered for, everything behind the B-pillar is cramped to the point you might not get a rear adult passenger in if the driver is too far beyond six-feet tall. Similarly, the cargo space is on the small size, especially when you look at the big boys in the category, the HR-V and Nissan Qashqai.

Inside, the CX-3 gets a modern and classy finish. Judges thought the command control for the infotainment system was first rate and easy to use. Interior materials feature a combination of hard and soft finishes to a much higher standard than you might expect from what is essentially a light vehicle.

Ride quality doesn’t quite match that of the HR-V, although it was difficult to split the CX-3 from the Kona in this area. Handling has always been a hallmark of the Mazda and the CX-3 lives up to expectations in this area. Steering is well weighted and precise, making the Mazda a great all-round drive.

The CX-3 also has an extensive range of variants including a 1.5-litre turbo diesel and AWD with either engine package.