On December 11, 2025, Mazda announced a model change for its compact SUV, the Mazda CX-3, and began accepting pre-orders. Sales are scheduled to begin in late December 2025, and by consolidating the lineup into two grades, gasoline and diesel, it has become easier to understand and choose from.
Mazda CX-3 to go on sale in late December 2025! New grade system makes it easier to choose
This latest improvement has made standard equipment that has been well received by users, evolving the model into one that offers improved quality and practicality. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the price, equipment, and grade system of the new CX-3.
New Mazda CX-3 price | Significant change from approximately 2.7 million yen
Price list for the new CX-3
CX-3 15S Urban Dresser II
With this latest improvement, the Mazda CX-3’s pricing structure has undergone significant changes. The entry price has been raised due to the unification of grades and the enhancement of equipment.
CX-3 XD Vivid Monotone II
[Gasoline model] 15S Urban Dresser II
- FF (2WD): 2,704,900 yen
- 4WD: 2,946,900 yen
[Diesel model] XD Vivid Monotone II
- FF (2WD): 3,315,400 yen
- 4WD: 3,557,400 yen
Price comparison with previous model
In the previous model, the cheapest grade gasoline model, the 15S Touring, was priced at 2,279,200 yen for a front-wheel drive model, but the new model has seen a price increase of approximately 430,000 yen.
This is not just a price increase, but a price revision due to the fact that popular equipment that was previously only available in higher grades has become standard equipment. In effect, the new model is positioned as the successor to the previous “15S Urban Dresser” and “15S Vivid Monotone.”
New Mazda CX-3 grade system | Consolidated into two grades for easier selection
Details of grade integration
The biggest change in this improvement is the significant reorganization and consolidation of the grade system.
Before integration (2024 model)
- Gasoline: 15S Touring / 15S Urban Dresser / 15S Vivid Monotone (3 grades)
- Diesel: XD Touring / XD Vivid Monotone (2 grades)
- Total of 5 grades
After integration (2025 model)
- Gasoline: 15S Urban Dresser II (1 grade)
- Diesel: XD Vivid Monotone II (1 grade)
- Total of 2 grades
This integration eliminates the problem of “not knowing which grade to choose,” and provides a simple structure where you can choose only by engine type and drive system.
Features and equipment of the 15S Urban Dresser II (gasoline model)
Major new standard equipment
The gasoline model “15S Urban Dresser II” now comes standard with the following popular features:
[New standard equipment]
- Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH) : Automatically adjusts light distribution according to driving conditions, illuminating a wide area without dazzling oncoming or preceding vehicles.
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror : Automatically reduces glare from headlights of following vehicles
These features, which were previously only available on higher grade models or as options, have now become standard, significantly improving safety and comfort.
Other main features of the 15S Urban Dresser II
- Mazda Connect (8.8-inch display)
- Apple CarPlay / Android Auto compatible
- Smart City Brake Support
- Black glossy package
- 16-inch aluminum wheels
- LED headlamps and LED fog lamps
Discontinued grades
- 15S Touring (entry grade)
- 15S Vivid Monotone (high-end grade)
These grades have been discontinued and merged into the “15S Urban Dresser II”.
XD Vivid Monotone II (Diesel Model) Features and Equipment
Newly adopted comfort features
The diesel model “XD Vivid Monotone II” now comes with the following new features to enhance comfort:
[Newly adopted equipment]
- Super UV-cut glass (front door) : Greatly reduces UV rays, preventing sunburn on the skin and interior.
- IR-cut glass (windshield/front door) : Cuts infrared rays to prevent the temperature inside the vehicle from rising
The use of these functional glass materials is expected to improve comfort in the summer and also contribute to improved fuel economy by making air conditioners more efficient.
Obsolete equipment
On the other hand, the following equipment has been discontinued:
- Steering shift switch
- LED front fog lamps
- 10-way power driver’s seat with driving position memory function
By reducing these features, the price has been kept down while prioritizing the comfort features desired by more users.
Other key features of the XD Vivid Monotone II
- 1.8L SKYACTIV-D turbo diesel engine
- Mazda Connect (8.8-inch display)
- Apple CarPlay / Android Auto compatible
- Advanced Smart City Brake Support
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control (with all-speed tracking function)
- Black glossy package
- 18-inch aluminum wheels
Discontinued grades
- XD Touring (entry grade)
Mazda CX-3 engine specs and performance
1.5L SKYACTIV-G 1.5 (gasoline engine)
[Main specifications]
- Engine type: Inline 4-cylinder DOHC 16 valve
- Total displacement: 1,496cc
- Maximum output: 111ps (82kW) / 6,000rpm
- Maximum torque: 14.7 kgm (144 Nm) / 3,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Drive system: FF/4WD
The gasoline engine is a proven power unit that is also installed in the Mazda 2 and Mazda 3. Combined with the compact body, it combines nimble driving performance with ease of handling.
1.8L SKYACTIV-D 1.8 (Diesel turbo engine)
[Main specifications]
- Engine type: Inline 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve direct injection turbo
- Total displacement: 1,756cc
- Maximum output: 130ps (96kW) / 4,000rpm
- Maximum torque: 27.5 kgm (270 Nm) / 1,600-2,600 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Drive system: FF/4WD
The diesel engine’s output characteristics were improved in 2023, significantly improving response the moment you step on the accelerator. This is particularly appealing in that it can provide sustained, powerful acceleration when merging or overtaking on the highway.
Mazda CX-3 fuel economy | WLTC mode
Official fuel economy value
[15S Urban Dresser II (gasoline)]
- FF (2WD): 17.0km/L
- 4WD: 15.7km/L
[XD Vivid Monotone II (Diesel)]
- FF (2WD): 20.0km/L
- 4WD: 19.0km/L
Diesel models offer approximately 18% better fuel economy than gasoline models. Furthermore, diesel is cheaper than gasoline, making it advantageous in terms of running costs.
Practical fuel economy guideline
WLTC mode fuel economy is a practical standard that combines urban, suburban, and highway driving. Actual fuel economy will vary depending on driving style and conditions, but diesel models offer excellent fuel economy even on long-distance drives.
Mazda CX-3 Safety Features | Latest Advanced Safety Technology
Safety systems standard on all grades
The new CX-3 comes standard with the following advanced safety features across all grades:
[Preventive safety technology]
- Advanced Smart City Brake Support (with night-time pedestrian detection)
- AT false start prevention control (forward/reverse)
- Lane Departure Warning System
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- High beam control system
[Driving assistance system]
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC with full-speed range tracking function)
- Rear parking sensors (center/corner)
Optional Equipment
- 360° View Monitor: Provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle to assist with parking
Improved nighttime safety
Of particular note is the Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Night-Time Pedestrian Detection function, which significantly improves the accuracy of pedestrian recognition at night, reducing the risk of an accident.
Mazda CX-3 body size and maneuverability
Body size details
- Total length : 4,275mm
- Overall width : 1,765mm
- Overall height : 1,550mm
- Wheelbase : 2,570mm
- Minimum ground clearance : 160mm
- Vehicle weight : 1,210 kg (gasoline) / 1,270 kg (diesel)
Advantages as a compact SUV
The CX-3’s overall length of 4,275mm and width of 1,765mm make it easy to maneuver in urban areas.
[Size comparison with higher-end models]
- CX-30: Overall length 4,395mm (+120mm), Overall width 1,795mm (+30mm)
- CX-5: Overall length 4,545mm (+270mm), Overall width 1,840mm (+75mm)
The appeal of the CX-3 is that it combines the presence and utility of an SUV with a size that makes it easy to handle on narrow roads and in multi-story parking lots.
Practicality with a ground clearance of 160mm
The minimum ground clearance of 160mm ensures drivability on snowy and rough roads while also making it easy to get in and out. It is designed to be suitable for a wide range of situations, from city driving to leisure activities.
Mazda CX-3 Design | The Evolution of Kodo Design
Exterior features
The exterior of the new CX-3 is based on Mazda’s design philosophy, “KODO – Soul of Motion,” and is based on the theme of “Exquisite & Edge.”
[Design Points]
- A graceful, coupe-like roofline
- Powerful front face
- Sharp character lines
- A bold impression with black glossy packaging
In particular, the “Black Glossy Package” comes as standard, with exterior plastic parts painted in gloss black, giving the car a more sophisticated look.
Interior texture
The interior is designed with the concept of “elegance and cutting edge” to create a high-quality space.
[Interior Features]
- Driver-centric cockpit design
- 8.8-inch new generation Mazda Connect
- Ergonomic seat with pelvic support
- High-quality materials for a luxurious feel
Seat based on SKYACTIV-VEHICLE ARCHITURE
The newly designed seats adopted in the 2020 improvement replicate the posture of a human walking, with the pelvis upright and the spine in an S-curve. This reduces fatigue even on long drives, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Comparing the Mazda CX-3 to competitors
Comparison with compact SUVs in the same class
[Toyota Yaris Cross]
- Price range: from 1,898,000 yen
- Engine: 1.5L gasoline, 1.5L hybrid
- Features: Hybrid model available, competitive price
[Honda Vezel]
- Price range: from 2,399,000 yen
- Engine: 1.5L gasoline, 1.5L e:HEV
- Features: spacious interior, hybrid
[Nissan Kicks]
- Price range: from 2,999,000 yen
- Engine: 1.2L e-POWER
- Features: Electric drive, quiet operation
Mazda CX-3’s differentiation points
The CX-3’s biggest feature is that it is a compact SUV equipped with a diesel engine, which is rare in the Japanese market .
[CX-3 Advantages]
- Powerful diesel engine (maximum torque 27.5 kgm)
- Excellent fuel economy (diesel FF: 20.0km/L)
- High-quality exterior with KODO design
- Mazda’s “Jinba Ittai” driving performance
- Easy-to-handle, compact body
Points to consider when purchasing a Mazda CX-3
Gasoline models are recommended
Who should choose the 15S Urban Dresser II?
- Want to keep vehicle prices down?
- Mainly used for city driving
- Annual mileage less than 10,000km
- Emphasis on quietness
The gasoline model starts at 2.7 million yen, about 600,000 yen cheaper than the diesel model. It offers sufficient performance for short-distance commuting, shopping, and other city driving.
Diesel models are recommended
Who should choose XD Vivid Monotone II?
- Frequent highway use
- Annual mileage is over 15,000 km
- Looking for powerful acceleration
- Lots of long-distance driving
- Focus on running costs
Although diesel models are expensive, their good fuel economy and low diesel prices mean that the longer you drive, the more advantageous their running costs become.
Choice of FF (2WD) or 4WD
Who should choose FF?
- Mainly used in urban areas
- Fuel efficiency is the top priority
- I want to keep the price down
Who should choose 4WD?
- Use in snowy or mountainous areas
- There is a chance of driving on rough roads
- Stable driving performance required
The 4WD model has a price difference of about 240,000 yen and slightly lower fuel efficiency, but the sense of security it offers in winter and on rough roads is a major benefit.
Mazda CX-3 release date and delivery date
Sales start date
- Pre-orders start : December 11, 2025
- Sales start : Scheduled for late December 2025
Estimated delivery date
No specific delivery date has been announced at this time, but considering the popularity of compact SUVs, early reservations are recommended. In particular, diesel models may be limited in production, so those interested should negotiate early.
Background to the Mazda CX-3 Improvements | Strategy Following the Mazda 2
Lineup organization process
This change in the CX-3 model lineup follows the strategy of the Mazda2, which was improved in November 2024.
[Mazda’s product strategy]
- Simplifying the complex grade system
- Standardization of popular equipment
- Easier to choose
- Improving brand value
Mazda is shifting its lineup from a diverse range of grades to a simple and easy-to-understand one, and the CX-3 has been improved in line with this trend.
Future developments expected
With the improvements to the CX-3, Mazda’s compact car and SUV lineup is now structured as follows:
- Mazda 2 : compact hatchback
- CX-3 : Compact SUV
- Mazda 3 : Mid-class hatchback/sedan
- CX-30 : Mid-class SUV
- CX-5 : Mid-range premium SUV
This clear product line makes it easy for customers to choose the model that best suits their needs.
Recommended optional equipment for the Mazda CX-3
Required level options
360° View Monitor
This equipment significantly improves safety when parking. It is highly recommended to install it, especially in compact SUVs, where it can be difficult to get a sense of the vehicle.
Comfort options
Wireless charging (Qi)
is a convenient feature that allows you to charge your smartphone without cables. It is especially useful when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Dealer options
Practical accessories such as various floor mats, drive recorders, ETCs, etc. are available as dealer options.
Summary | The new Mazda CX-3 has evolved into an attractive model that is easy to choose
The 2025 improved Mazda CX-3 has consolidated its grade system into two and standardized popular features, making it an easier-to-choose and more valuable model.
[Summary of the new CX-3’s key features]
- Simple two-grade configuration : One gasoline and one diesel grade, so you can choose without hesitation
- Enhanced equipment : Practical equipment such as ALH, auto-dimming mirrors, and IR-cut glass are standard
- Excellent fuel economy : The diesel model in particular boasts a low fuel consumption of 20.0km/L.
- Compact body : Easy to handle with a total length of 4,275 mm and a total width of 1,765 mm
- Advanced safety features : Standard equipment includes the latest safety technologies such as nighttime pedestrian detection
- Prices start from 2.7 million yen : Although the price has increased from the previous model due to improved equipment, the value has also improved.
Although the price has increased from the previous model, the equipment has been improved to match the price, and the product value has been improved. In particular, the powerful driving performance and good fuel economy of the diesel engine are major attractions that are not found in other domestic compact SUVs.
The new Mazda CX-3 will be a very attractive option for those looking for a compact, easy-to-handle SUV but who don’t want to compromise on driving quality or high-quality design.
With the car set to go on sale in late December 2025, be sure to take a test drive and experience Mazda’s “Jinba Ittai” driving experience.
Reference Links
