
The Mazda CX3 available in the domestic market is purely imported. Mazda introduced the CX3 to China through import channels to fill a gap in the market. Its overall performance is similar to that of the Mazda CX-4 and Mazda CX-5. In terms of exterior design, it has won the Red Dot Design Award. Here are some additional details: 1. The interior of the Mazda CX3 features a now-popular rounded rectangular central control display positioned at the top, circular air vents, and three circular knobs below, creating a very clean and upscale design. 2. The configuration of the CX-3 is both loved and hated. First, the most important safety features are consistent across both high and low trim levels, with the high trim only adding lane departure warning, which is commendable. It includes keyless entry, keyless start, and even a heads-up display; however, the low trim lacks adaptive cruise control.

Last year at the auto show, I saw the Mazda CX-3. The salesperson mentioned that all models of this car are imported, produced in Japanese factories and shipped over. Among the SUVs currently sold domestically, models like the CX-5 are locally produced by Changan Mazda, but the CX-3 is smaller in size and has a different positioning, never having been produced domestically. Imported cars certainly have their advantages, with finer original factory craftsmanship and stricter overall quality control. However, the price is about 20,000 to 30,000 RMB higher than comparable domestically produced cars, and maintenance and part replacements require waiting for overseas shipments. Before buying, it's important to consider the repair costs and waiting times, as purchasing a car is a long-term commitment, unlike a phone that can be easily replaced.

From a dealer's perspective, the Mazda CX3 is indeed a purely imported model, not a domestically produced joint venture vehicle. The domestically produced Changan Mazda models only include the CX8 and CX50, with no production plans for the CX3. Currently, purchasing imported cars involves many considerations, as tariffs and transportation costs are included in the price. Therefore, even though both are Mazda models, the CX3 is priced higher than the domestically produced CX30. The advantage is that it meets global unified standards, so there's no need to worry about domestic configuration reductions—the three major components are all original. However, the downside is the long lead time for parts. For example, my colleague had to wait three weeks for a replacement headlight after a minor scrape. If you're really considering buying, I recommend going straight for the top trim to avoid future hassles.

I remember the Mazda CX3 was indeed an imported vehicle when it was sold in China before. Although it's now discontinued, you can still find it in the used car market. This model was mainly imported from the Kyushu plant in Japan, unlike some brands that use parallel import channels—it was all officially imported by authorized agents. Driving an imported car carries a certain prestige, given its genuine imported status, and the Skyactiv technology tuning is more authentic. However, you need to consider the ownership costs—annual insurance is more expensive than for domestic models, and even transmission fluid requires a specific type. If you're interested in buying one, make sure to verify the car's origin to avoid being misled by some dealers into buying a domestic version.

Anyone who has studied Mazda's product lineup knows that the CX-3 belongs to the imported vehicle series. The domestic production lines mainly focus on compact and large SUVs, so this small and sporty model retains its imported status. The biggest difference with imports is on the vehicle identification plate—if the first digit of the VIN is 'J,' it means it was made in Japan. I test-drove my friend's CX-3, and the handling and sound insulation are indeed more refined than Changan Mazda's models, with particularly responsive throttle feedback. However, repairing imported parts can be a hassle. Last time, his air conditioning compressor failed, and he had to wait half a month for the replacement part. If you frequently drive long distances, you might want to think twice.


