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Even though our patience seems to be less abundant and attention spans shorter than they used to be these days, not too many of us change our vehicles after just a year. So, unless you drive much more than average you’re unlikely to consider changing a 2018 Mazda CX-3 for a 2019 Mazda CX-3, even though the new one benefits from a number of updates. However, if you’re looking to buy a Mazda CX-3 and you’re confronted with the choice a new old stock or ex-demo 2018 model, or a brand new 2019 variant, here’s what you need to know about.

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Styling

It’s hard to argue against the CX-3 being one of the most attractive and modern-looking compact crossovers in the current market, and that’s whether we’re talking about a 2018 or 2019 model year. Of course, even the very best designs still have room for improvement, so for the new model year the designers at Mazda has instigated a few subtle enhancements to the way the CX-3 looks on the outside. There’s now a bolder grille at the front with additional bars, chrome accents on the lower bumper and doors, LED taillights, a new Soul Red Crystal paint option and some new 18-inch alloy wheels with painted hollows. Unless you’re a CX-3 aficionado you might not notice these changes looking at just the new model, but put one side-by-side with a 2018 and it becomes clear the 2019 model is that little bit more contemporary thanks to those subtle enhancements.

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On the Inside

One of the changes that are most noticeable inside the 2019 CX-3 is the move away from a manual handbrake to an electronic version. As well as being a more modern way of doing things and more user-friendly, the removal of the manual lever from the centre console gives a more open feel and has allowed the cup holders to be repositioned. An integrated armrest is also now present, and additional enhancements include the availability of full-leather seating surfaces featuring sport stitching and pleated piping.

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Under the Hood

Unsurprisingly, the familiar 2.0-litre engine stays under the hood of the 2019 model year CX-3, but this year it benefits from a slight power increase, so it now develops 148 horsepower and 148 lb.-ft. of torque. For an SUV of such compact proportions those are impressive numbers, so this new model is a bit more potent than its predecessor. But what those number don’t tell us about is the fact Mazda says the tweaking of the engine’s tuning means torque will increase across the entire rpm range for a much more responsive drive.

Further mechanical enhancements include G-Vectoring Control vehicle dynamics enhancements now being standard across the range, while Mazda’s Predictive iACTIV AWD is now available for all trim levels of the 2019 CX-3.

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Verdict

The changes to the CX-3 for 2019 are subtle, but when taken together they represent an even more enticing package than before. For more information and to see the changes for yourself on a test drive, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at Moffatt’s Mazda today.