Mazda Wants CX-3 to Become a Core Model, Nearly Overlooks the New MX-5

The all-new CX-3 compact crossover was the main attraction in Mazda’s special event that took place on November 18, at the eve of the Los Angeles Motor Show. In stark contrast, the fourth-gen MX-5 roadster was almost side-lined.

There’s a good reason for that. In the Japanese company’s own words, the CX-3 “is set to become a core model in the automaker’s global line-up” when it becomes available to customers, something that will happen next spring in Japan and during the summer in the US.

“The CX-3 complements the Mazda line-up, as it perfectly hits the target in a rapidly growing section of the industry”, said Mazda North American Operations CEO Jim O’Sullivan. “Customers are shopping for vehicles that are fun to drive, great to look at, fit their busy lifestyles and are an outstanding value both at purchase and when it comes time to trade in”, he added.

Please, spare us the “urbanites” and their creative lifestyle for which the mini crossover is ideal: the truth is that instead of a supermini, customers prefer a jacked-up version that may be based on the same platform but looks more upmarket and can optionally be equipped with four-wheel drive for that extra off-roading kudos.

While the CX-3 will be available with the new SKYACTIV engines, a 2.0-liter gasoline in the US and a 1.5-liter diesel in other markets, it looks like Mazda is, for the time being, not adopting the downsized turbocharged petrol engines like its rivals do.

Meanwhile the 2016 MX-5, whose first generation kickstarted the small roadster revival, played second fiddle to the CX-3 as it’s considered a niche product. Further proof, if any was needed, is the fact that it was allotted the same space in Mazda’s press release about the LA Show as the small SUV’s infotainment system.

It’s perfectly normal to target growing segments such as the small crossovers. Give the customers what they want, or else you’ll go bust. It just feels strange that in the City of Angels, the one place in the world where roadsters rule supreme, the MX-5 was close to a foot note along with the rest of Mazda’s range.