MODEL
Mazda CX-3
NHTSA safety across every Mazda CX-3 model year we cover.
Across the 3 model years of the Mazda CX-3 we cover (2019 to 2021), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2021 at 95 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 90. 4 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact crossover SUV slotting into one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Aimed at urban-minded buyers and first-time SUV shoppers who want a nimble, car-like driving experience with a higher seating position, the CX-3 competes against entry-level crossovers while carrying Mazda's reputation for driver-focused engineering. Our coverage spans the 2019 through 2021 model years.
The Mazda CX-3 puts forward a genuinely strong safety case across its 2019 to 2021 model run, and the numbers back that up. The best NHTSA Safety Index we recorded for this model is a 95 out of 100, earned by the 2021 model year and landing in the Exceptional band. That is a meaningful result in a segment where safety scores can vary widely. Crash-test performance at its peak includes a full 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side impact testing, with a 4 out of 5 stars in rollover protection. The rollover result is worth noting because the CX-3's relatively tall, narrow subcompact body raises the same physics concerns found across this class. Four recalls across the covered years is a modest count for a three-year span, and 30 owner complaints in total is a low volume for this segment. Of those complaints, 2 involve reported crashes and 1 involves a reported injury. These are unverified allegations, but they are worth a shopper's attention. The overall picture is of a subcompact crossover that takes passive safety seriously, scores near the top of its class in federal testing, and carries a complaint volume that should not raise alarm. Shoppers prioritizing crash protection in a small crossover will find the CX-3's safety record genuinely competitive.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the CX-3 as one of the more engaging and refined options in the subcompact crossover segment, praising its handling and interior quality relative to class expectations. Most acknowledge that its compact dimensions and modest cargo space limit its practicality, making it a stronger fit for singles or couples than for growing families.
- The 2021 CX-3 achieves a 95 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index, placing it in the Exceptional band and representing the strongest safety score across the 2019 to 2021 model years we cover.
- Frontal and side crash-test results reach a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in the best-performing year, but the rollover rating of 4 out of 5 stars reflects the inherent stability tradeoffs of a tall, narrow subcompact body.
- Four recalls across three model years is a relatively contained figure for this segment, and shoppers should verify whether any open recalls apply to a specific vehicle they are considering by checking the NHTSA recall database using the VIN.
- Thirty total owner complaints across 2019 to 2021 is a low count, but two of those complaints involve reported crashes and one involves a reported injury. These are unverified allegations and should be reviewed as part of any pre-purchase due diligence.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Mazda CX-3 with 2 recalls.