For those of you who might be interested in something a little smaller than CX-5...

The comment earlier that the new model won't be based on the Mazda 3 because that's what underpins the CX-5 is flawed. Wheelbase is not the only criteria. The CX-5 is essentially a chopped Mazda 6 on steroids. A recent review by an Australian site provides a comparison between the two Mazdas.
All three chassis are based on the same architecture. Claiming that the CX-5 (which shares the same W/B as the Mazda 3) is really a Mazda 6 with 5.1" taken out of the floorpan seems like a really lame way of looking at automotive design. But if you want to believe it, be my guest!
 
I am sure that one of the reasons for debuting in America is to gauge customer reactions and potential demand. The Juke is a different animal only because the design is aimed at very young drivers. The CX 3 appears to be more mainstream. Too small for me but we shall see,
 
Maybe price has something to do with it..??. Right now a loaded CX5 is over $30k and a loaded Mazda 3 is $30k. Offer a smaller utility vehicle that you can buy loaded with similar options for less than $23k-$24k and you have a really good deal. But I do agree that they need to offer AWD in order to truly differentiate it with the Mazda 3 or Mazda 2.
 
In areas of lots of traffic congestion and small parking spaces, a Smaller CX-3 would sell. If there is no market, them why is Audi releasing the QX3?
 
In areas of lots of traffic congestion and small parking spaces, a Smaller CX-3 would sell. If there is no market, them why is Audi releasing the QX3?

Yes. And in major markets such as United States, the market for small SUVs is much bigger than for station wagons.
 
Yes. And in major markets such as United States, the market for small SUVs is much bigger than for station wagons.

I would say 'marketed' instead. All a CUV is is a taller sedan with a slightly larger trunk area. A minivan has more 'utility' than a 'CUV', and a lot of times even an SUV. Its new and exciting words, makes me want to by one, right? ;-)
 
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I would say 'marketed' instead. All a CUV is is a taller sedan with a slightly larger trunk area. A minivan has more 'utility' than a 'CUV', and a lot of times even an SUV. Its new and exciting words, makes me want to by one, right? ;-)
Are you still regretting getting rid of that Mazda 5? You know they still make them (though just barely). You can always trade your CUV-5 in for one of the last Mini-Mini-5s!
 
With all this downsizing, we may see mini mini vans in the future. I'm just surprised, why the 5 is not working out? They should make that cool one, which is done in Photoshop.
 
Are you still regretting getting rid of that Mazda 5? You know they still make them (though just barely). You can always trade your CUV-5 in for one of the last Mini-Mini-5s!

I actually regret trading my MPV for the 5. Hide sight is 20/20, well, 30/30 in my case as I went from the 5 to CX5 as well. Mazda should bring the 8 over to NA.
 
I would say 'marketed' instead. All a CUV is is a taller sedan with a slightly larger trunk area. A minivan has more 'utility' than a 'CUV', and a lot of times even an SUV. Its new and exciting words, makes me want to by one, right? ;-)

No kidding slick marketing, but the proof is the actual sales numbers, they are HUGE.

Compact SUVs/crossovers are a very high growth segment, so why not subcompact SUVs/crossovers (topic here) too.

Minivans-not cool, station wagons-not cool, Hummers-not cool, so it seems based on actual sales numbers when compared.

Americans buy compact SUV/crossovers with 4 bangers that get decent gas mileage by the thousands every week now. They like the utility, roominess, awd-availabity with a bit extra clearance, the macho front clip of a truck, the high seating position for navigating bad traffic (visibilty), ease of entry/exit and comfort (due to chair height seating).
 
I actually regret trading my MPV for the 5. Hide sight is 20/20, well, 30/30 in my case as I went from the 5 to CX5 as well. Mazda should bring the 8 over to NA.[/QUOTE]?????????????????????
 
I actually regret trading my MPV for the 5. Hide sight is 20/20, well, 30/30 in my case as I went from the 5 to CX5 as well. Mazda should bring the 8 over to NA.[/QUOTE]?????????????????????

Mazda 8, aka MPV, still made in some Asian countries.

Mazda_8.jpg
 
Is it safe to assume from what we know so far that the CX-3 will have less space than a Mazda 3 Hatchback? Or at the very most, the same amount of space?
 
Is it safe to assume from what we know so far that the CX-3 will have less space than a Mazda 3 Hatchback? Or at the very most, the same amount of space?
My guess would be, cubic feet-wise, about the same, just configured differently.
 
I just remembered that Honda is also unveiling their HRV model that’s based on the Fit and is like a smaller version of the CRV. Jeep already unveiled the Renegade which is a compact utility vehicle much smaller than the Cherokee. Even Mercedes has a compact crossover with the GLA. Maybe this is the next big market in North America.
 
Yes, premium brands producing GLA, X1, and Q3 that are smaller than CX-5. Allows them to hit a lower entry price point for those wanting the Benz, BMW, Audi badge too.
 
I saw a Mercedes GLA finally in person and it was ALOT smaller (and uglier) than i thought it would be. Wouldnt be surprised if the CX-3 is something like that.

Upwardly stretched Mazda2
 
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