Updated Mazda CX-3 range gains new GT Sport model

The Mazda CX-3 range has been updated for 2017 with a new range-topping model called the GT Sport.

Produced in just 500 units, the GT Sport gets new, sporty exterior trim, 18in wheels and nappa leather trim as standard. It’s priced from £22,895.

It joins an updated 13-model range that starts from £18,495 and gets a revised suspension setup to improve ride while boosting handling, as well as increased sound insulation to up refinement.

There are also a few tweaks to the car’s exterior body trim and a new steering wheel inside.

Mazda has updated its i-Activsense technology. It combines the car’s driver assist features to offer assistance in certain conditions and reduce the chances of an accident. The system’s also been made standard across the whole CX-3 line-up.

G-Vectoring Control technology has been added to the line-up as well. It can enhance the car’s agility and reduce the steering inputs required from a driver through a corner by constantly adjusting torque loads to each wheel. It was first introduced in the Mazda 6 late last year.

The pre-update CX-3’s engines are retained with the 2017 model, with a Skyactive 2.0-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel available in power outputs of 104bhp to 148bhp. The petrol accounted for 80% of UK sales before the update, so is expected to remain the best seller here.

The engines are mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive available – it’s fitted as standard to the 148bhp petrol.

Callum Poole