Mazda CX-3 — All Years
We have Mazda CX-3 specifications on file for 6 model years, 2016–2021, covering hatchback trims. EPA data lists a single engine, the 2L 4-cyl. Combined fuel economy runs from 35 to 37 mpg (UK) depending on year, engine and transmission. 6 of the 6 rated model years hold an overall 5-star NHTSA rating. Select a year below for full engine, fuel economy, dimensions and safety data.
| Year | Engine(s) | Fuel | MPG (UK) | CO₂ g/km | NHTSA | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 35–37 | 180 | 5★ | 1 | 4 |
| 2020 | 2L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 35–37 | 180 | 5★ | 1 | 1 |
| 2019 | 2L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 35–37 | 180 | 5★ | 2 | 27 |
| 2018 | 2L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 35–37 | 180 | 5★ | 1 | 10 |
| 2017 | 2L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 35–37 | 179 | 5★ | 1 | 21 |
| 2016 | 2L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 35–37 | 180 | 5★ | 3 | 48 |
Best and Worst Mazda CX-3 Years: What the NHTSA Data Shows
Across the 6 Mazda CX-3 model years from 2016 to 2021 that have NHTSA data, the typical year has about 16 owner complaints on file. These are the extremes:
Fewest owner complaints
Complaint counts are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and rise with how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road, so treat them as a pointer for what to inspect, not a reliability score. Model years after 2022 are left out because they have had little time to accumulate reports. Always check a specific car by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Engine History
- 2L 4-cyl — 2016–2021
Engines are those EPA lists for each model year; the MPG (UK) column shows the range across configurations where more than one exists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What years is the Mazda CX-3 covered on this site?
We have data for 6 model years of the Mazda CX-3, from 2016 to 2021.
What engines does the Mazda CX-3 come with?
EPA data lists: 2L 4-cyl (2016–2021).
Which Mazda CX-3 year has the best fuel economy?
The 2021 model returns the highest combined MPG (UK) on record here, at 37 mpg on its most efficient configuration.
Does the Mazda CX-3 have a 5-star NHTSA safety rating?
Yes — the 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 model years hold an overall 5-star NHTSA rating on record here.
Which Mazda CX-3 model years have the most recalls and complaints?
The 2016 model year has the most NHTSA recall campaigns on record (3), and the 2016 has the most owner complaints (48). Counts are from NHTSA as of 6 October 2026 and change over time; complaints are unverified owner reports.
What body style is the Mazda CX-3?
The Mazda CX-3 is classed as a hatchback on this site.
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