MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2020 Mazda CX-3

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2020 Mazda CX-3

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

1Recalls
1Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE MAZDA CX-3

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.

VERDICT

The 2020 Mazda CX-3 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 94 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 1 recall on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers 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.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 13.6%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14206

Index breakdown

Crash protection66/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record18.25/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA23V487000

Risk: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 13, 2023. Final owner letters for affected models and model years in the states of CT, MA, MD, NJ, NY, PA and VA were mailed Augus

Reported 2023-07-14

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

1 owner complaint on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

1reported crash
0reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsAir Bags 1

Other CX-3 years

Rivals in SUV (2020)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 14206), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Mazda Cx-3 2020. Class rank 2 of 107 in SUV 2020. Methodology · Disclosure