Hey guys! Are you curious about the engine specs and performance of the 2017 Mazda CX-3? You've come to the right place! Let's dive into everything you need to know about what's under the hood of this stylish subcompact SUV.

Engine Options for the 2017 Mazda CX-3

The 2017 Mazda CX-3 primarily features one engine option, but it's a pretty solid one! The main engine that powers the CX-3 is a 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine. This engine is designed to provide a good balance of fuel efficiency and performance, making it a great choice for daily driving. It incorporates Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology, which focuses on optimizing engine combustion and reducing internal friction to enhance both power delivery and fuel economy. For a subcompact SUV, this engine provides adequate pep for city commuting and comfortable highway cruising. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, which further enhances the driving experience. Some models also offer an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, providing added traction and stability in various driving conditions. Overall, the engine in the 2017 Mazda CX-3 is a reliable and efficient choice that aligns well with the vehicle’s sporty and practical nature. Whether you're zipping through city streets or embarking on a longer road trip, the CX-3's engine is designed to deliver a satisfying driving experience.

Horsepower and Torque

So, how much power does this engine actually produce? The 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G engine in the 2017 Mazda CX-3 churns out around 146 horsepower. This level of horsepower is quite competitive in the subcompact SUV class, providing enough power for most driving situations. The engine's torque output is also noteworthy, delivering approximately 146 lb-ft of torque. Torque is crucial because it's what you feel as the pulling power of the engine, especially when accelerating from a standstill or climbing hills. With this amount of torque, the CX-3 feels responsive and eager to get going. The combination of horsepower and torque ensures that the CX-3 doesn’t feel underpowered, even when carrying passengers or cargo. Mazda’s engineering ensures that the power delivery is smooth and linear, making the driving experience enjoyable and predictable. The engine's performance characteristics make it well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising, providing the driver with confidence and control. This balance of power and responsiveness is one of the key reasons why the 2017 Mazda CX-3 is often praised for its engaging driving dynamics.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the standout features of the 2017 Mazda CX-3 is its impressive fuel efficiency. With the 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G engine, the CX-3 achieves excellent gas mileage, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long trips. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) models typically offer the best fuel economy, with EPA ratings of around 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) models also perform admirably, with ratings of approximately 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. These figures are quite competitive in the subcompact SUV segment, and they mean you'll be spending less time and money at the gas pump. Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology plays a significant role in achieving these fuel efficiency numbers. By optimizing the engine’s combustion process and reducing internal friction, the CX-3 is able to squeeze more miles out of every gallon of gas. The efficient six-speed automatic transmission also contributes to the vehicle’s fuel economy by ensuring that the engine operates at its most efficient RPM range. For drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 is an excellent option.

Transmission

The 2017 Mazda CX-3 comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is engineered to work seamlessly with the 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G engine, providing smooth and precise gear changes. The six-speed automatic transmission enhances the driving experience by offering quick and responsive shifts, whether you're accelerating from a stop or cruising on the highway. It also features a manual mode, allowing drivers to take control of gear changes for a more engaging driving experience. The manual mode can be particularly useful when driving on winding roads or in hilly terrain, where you might want to hold a gear longer to maintain optimal power. The transmission's design focuses on maximizing fuel efficiency without compromising performance. It ensures that the engine operates in its most efficient RPM range, which helps to improve gas mileage. The smooth operation of the transmission contributes to the overall refinement of the CX-3, making it a comfortable and enjoyable vehicle to drive. Whether you prefer the convenience of automatic shifting or the control of manual mode, the transmission in the 2017 Mazda CX-3 is designed to deliver a satisfying driving experience.

Drivetrain Options: FWD and AWD

The 2017 Mazda CX-3 offers both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) options, allowing buyers to choose the drivetrain that best suits their needs and preferences. The standard configuration is front-wheel drive, which provides good fuel efficiency and nimble handling. FWD is a great choice for drivers who primarily drive in urban environments or in areas with mild weather conditions. The all-wheel-drive option, on the other hand, provides enhanced traction and stability, making it a valuable addition for those who live in regions with snow, ice, or frequent rain. AWD systems distribute power to all four wheels, which helps to prevent wheel slippage and improve grip on slippery surfaces. The AWD system in the CX-3 is designed to be proactive, meaning it can anticipate when additional traction is needed and adjust power distribution accordingly. This helps to maintain stability and control in challenging driving conditions. While the AWD system does slightly reduce fuel efficiency compared to the FWD model, the added confidence and security it provides can be well worth the trade-off for many drivers. Whether you prioritize fuel economy or enhanced traction, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 offers a drivetrain option to meet your needs.

Performance and Handling

The 2017 Mazda CX-3 is known for its engaging driving dynamics and sporty handling. Thanks to its lightweight design, responsive steering, and well-tuned suspension, the CX-3 feels nimble and fun to drive. The vehicle's compact size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while its precise steering provides excellent feedback and control. The suspension is designed to strike a balance between comfort and handling, absorbing bumps and road imperfections while still providing a confident and controlled ride. The CX-3's handling is further enhanced by Mazda's G-Vectoring Control (GVC) technology, which subtly adjusts engine torque in response to steering inputs. This helps to improve cornering stability and reduce the need for steering corrections, making the driving experience smoother and more enjoyable. The combination of these features makes the 2017 Mazda CX-3 a standout in its class when it comes to driving pleasure. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling winding roads, the CX-3 delivers a responsive and engaging driving experience that sets it apart from many of its competitors. Its blend of performance, handling, and comfort makes it a compelling choice for drivers who enjoy being behind the wheel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 offers a well-rounded package with its efficient 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G engine, available all-wheel drive, and engaging driving dynamics. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, performance, or handling, the CX-3 has something to offer. I hope this article has given you a comprehensive understanding of the engine specs and performance of the 2017 Mazda CX-3. Happy driving!