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.
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.
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.
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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