Thanks for logging in.

You can now click/tap WATCH to start the live stream.

Thanks for logging in.

You can now click/tap LISTEN to start the live stream.

Thanks for logging in.

You can now click/tap LATEST NEWS to start the live stream.

LISTEN
Watch
on air now

Create a 4BC account today!

You can now log in once to listen live, watch live, join competitions, enjoy exclusive 4BC content and other benefits.


Joining is free and easy.

You will soon need to register to keep streaming 4BC online. Register an account or skip for now to do it later.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Mazda CX-3 Akari AWD – one of the best in its class

David Berthon

Talking about Mazda’s CX-3 SUV upgraded late last year – the number 2 seller to Mitsubishi’s ASX and one can understand why – the short bob tail on the CX-3 gives it much style but limits luggage space. So the CX-3 is best suited to young buyers or retirees – small families better suited to the Mitsubishi, Honda’s updated HR-V and Nissan’s excellent Qashqui, all with superior luggage space. Having said that the CX- 3 still has loads of visual appeal and the update brings a far superior ride, improved noise suppression and better performance, the 2.0-litre petrol with six-speed automatic the popular choice in front-wheel-drive with optional all-wheel-drive accounting for just 8 per cent of sales. I drove the all-wheel-drive Akari at $36,790 now with a new grille, LED taillights, small interior updates and the fitment of an electric handbrake a welcome addition plus a 360 degree monitor for added safety.
Ride quality and lower noise, vibration and harshness levels are the big improvers here but the all-wheel-drive CX-3 now gets a more sophisticated DeDion rear axle in lieu of the torsion beam type used on the front drive models. It’s noticeable on this slightly heavier all- wheel-drive Akari and the handling is rather polished. The CX-3’s 2.0-litre petrol engine also got some minor tweaks – now with better throttle response quieter, also more fuel efficient with lower emissions. Mazda Australia has just added a new more premium top Spec CX-3 Akari – the Akari LE taking the total number of CX-3 variants to 16. Adding $500 to Akari pricing the LE upgrade relates to bright alloy wheels and minor trim choices. I’m David Berthon

Download this podcast here

David Berthon
Advertisement