Mazda CX-3 to arrive in Malaysia by Nov 2015, will cost more than the HR-V



We all know that this is just a matter of time, and sources from Bermaz Motor have revealed that their highly anticipated crossover, the CX-3 will be making its way here come November this year.

The Peugeot 2008, Ford EcoSport and Honda HR-V rival was revealed to the world in November 2014 at the Los Angeles Auto Show with two engine choices – a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol (Skyactiv-G; 155hp and 200 Nm) or the 1.5-litre turbodiesel (Skyactiv-D; 104 hp and 270 Nm) engines.

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Like the US market, Malaysian-bound CX-3s will be fitted with the 2.0-litre lump paired to a six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission, earning itself the top spot in terms of outright performance in the growing B-Segment crossover segment. Whether or not it will come with an All-Wheel Drive system remains a mystery, but it’s likelier for our CX-3 to be front-wheel driven.

Now, pricing is said to hover around the RM130,000 mark, which also means that it will be the most expensive B-Segment crossover to be sold in Malaysia. Comparatively, the insanely popular HR-V is priced from RM100k to RM119k, with the range topping Grade V trim already offering an irresistibly generous kit, such as full LED headlights with LED DRLs, touch sensitive air conditioning controls and six airbags.

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That said, we can expect Bermaz Motor to give the HR-V a good run for its money, offering projector headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED combination tail lamps and a class-leading interior build. This includes leather-upholstered seats, heads-up display, MZD Connect System with GPS navigation, a 7-inch touchscreen head unit, six standard stereo speakers and six airbags.

We’re unsure if the 18-inch wheels will make its way here as standard, but a move in making it a cost option will certainly add to the appeal. Those fancying themselves a dynamic SUV will be pleased to know that the CX-3 comes with Mazda’s full suite of Skyactiv Technology, which without question should make the crossover a more enjoyable car to drive compared to the Ford EcoSport.

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So, dear readers, what do you think of the CX-3? Has it got what it takes to butt heads with the Honda HR-V, or is the indicative RM130k price tag a case of ‘asking too much’?


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