A compact SUV, the Mazda CX-3 sits in a growing sector, with SUVs now the best-selling type of car in the UK. 

This trend has resulted in some experts warning the increasing popularity of SUVs could result in fleets
struggling to hit cost and emissions targets.

But the CX-3’s compact nature means it stacks up well on paper. The claim of the 1.5D SE-L NAV, which is currently on test with Fleet News, is 70.6mpg, giving it emissions of 105g/km. That puts the CX-3 into a 21% benefit-in-kind tax bracket, with a P11D price of £20,940.

But real-world driving inevitably means that fuel economy figures are difficult to achieve and the CX-3 is no different. I’m currently achieving 50.1mpg compared to Mazda’s claimed 70.6mpg – a 29% shortfall. Driving style will always determine fuel consumption figures, and we have seen the CX-3 achieve a much more palatable fuel economy figure of 60mpg while on test. 

There are two engine choices: the 1.5-litre diesel (also found in the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6) and a 2-litre petrol (also available in the Mazda 6 and the CX-5). Both come with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.

This report is one of a series of long-term test reports as we experience the vehicle over an extended period of time. 

To read more, see the review links to the right.