Used Mazda CX-3 for sale near Preston

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 200
Average Price: Around £10,200

Mazda CX-3 (2015-2021) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Attractive looks	Not as roomy in the back or boot as some rivals
Reasonably strong engines	Doesn't drive with the verve you'd expect of a Mazda
Well equipped as standard	A Skoda Kamiq has a more comfortable ride

Quick Summary

The Mazda CX-3 (2015-2021) is a stylish compact SUV that combines attractive exterior design with a well-equipped interior. Available with a choice of efficient petrol and diesel engines, it delivers reasonable performance and practicality for its class. The entry-level SE trim comes with cruise control, air-conditioning, Bluetooth, and hill-hold assist, whilst higher trims add satnav, climate control, autonomous emergency braking, and premium features like adaptive LED headlights and a Bose sound system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are available for smartphone connectivity.

Running costs are competitive, with the 1.8-litre diesel achieving around 55mpg in real-world driving and the 2.0-litre petrol engines returning approximately 40-46mpg. Insurance premiums are affordable, and Mazda offers fixed-price service plans covering the first three years. However, the CX-3 falls short in rear passenger space and boot capacity compared to some rivals, and the ride quality doesn't match competitors like the Skoda Kamiq. Whilst it promises the sporty, enjoyable drive Mazda is known for, it delivers less verve than expected.

Best for: Buyers seeking an attractive, well-equipped compact SUV with strong engines and reasonable running costs, particularly those prioritising style and standard equipment.

Not ideal for: Those needing maximum rear legroom or boot space, drivers expecting the engaging handling Mazda typically delivers, or those seeking the most comfortable ride in the compact SUV segment.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the CX-3 if: You prioritise attractive styling and standard equipment, seek competitive running costs, and want a well-equipped compact SUV from a reputable manufacturer.

Consider alternatives if: You need maximum rear passenger space or boot capacity, expect engaging handling typical of Mazda, or require the most comfortable ride available in the compact SUV segment.

Competitive Position: The Mazda CX-3 (2015-2021) is a stylish contender in the compact SUV market, offering attractive design and strong standard equipment. However, it faces stiff competition from the Seat Arona and Renault Captur, which both score higher for expert ratings and overall CarGurus ratings. The CX-3's main weakness is its limited rear space and less engaging driving dynamics than expected from Mazda, whilst the Skoda Kamiq offers superior ride comfort. For buyers prioritising style and equipment over practicality and handling, the CX-3 remains a solid choice with competitive running costs and good user satisfaction.

Read our full Mazda CX-3 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from April 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.