Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD. This subcompact crossover SUV has been turning heads since its debut, and for good reason! It packs a punch with its stylish design, sporty handling, and a host of features that make it a joy to drive. We're going to break down everything you need to know about this fantastic vehicle, from its performance and features to its pros and cons, so you can decide if it's the right fit for you. Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a detailed exploration of what makes the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD such a compelling choice in the crowded SUV market.

Overview of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD is the top-of-the-line trim for the CX-3, offering the most features and the best driving experience. Mazda has always been known for its commitment to driving dynamics, and the CX-3 Grand Touring AWD is no exception. It perfectly blends practicality with a fun-to-drive nature. This model year was particularly notable for introducing a more mature design aesthetic, incorporating Mazda's signature Kodo design language. This translates to sleek lines, a bold front grille, and an overall athletic stance. Inside, you'll find a well-crafted interior with premium materials, including leather-trimmed seats and a user-friendly infotainment system. The AWD system provides added confidence and stability, making it a great choice for various weather conditions. It competes in a segment that includes the Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Nissan Juke, and in many reviews, the Mazda CX-3 often comes out on top for its driving dynamics and overall refinement. The Grand Touring trim adds premium features like a sunroof, upgraded sound system, and advanced safety technologies. It's a great choice for those seeking a stylish, fun-to-drive, and well-equipped subcompact SUV. The CX-3 is designed with the driver in mind, offering responsive handling and a comfortable ride. It’s also relatively fuel-efficient, making it an excellent choice for daily commutes and longer road trips. The combination of its attractive design, enjoyable driving experience, and advanced features makes the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD a standout in its class. In short, it's a fantastic option for anyone looking for a stylish, practical, and fun-to-drive subcompact SUV.

Key Specifications

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty and review the key specifications of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD: It's powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, that produces a respectable 146 horsepower. While that might not sound like a lot, the CX-3 is relatively lightweight, which makes it feel peppy and responsive. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which is known for its smooth shifts and contributes to the overall driving enjoyment. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Fuel economy is also a strong point. You can expect to get around 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, making it an economical choice for daily driving. Other key features include a 7-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system, a premium Bose sound system, leather-trimmed seats, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The CX-3 also boasts a stylish and modern design, with a sporty exterior and a well-appointed interior. Dimensions-wise, it's compact, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spaces. However, this also means cargo space is limited compared to larger SUVs. Overall, the specifications of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD show that it’s a well-rounded vehicle that offers a great combination of performance, features, and fuel efficiency. It’s a compelling choice for those seeking a practical yet fun-to-drive subcompact SUV.

Performance and Handling of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD

One of the biggest selling points of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD is its sporty performance and handling. Mazda has always prioritized driving dynamics, and the CX-3 Grand Touring AWD delivers on this promise. The vehicle's responsive steering and well-tuned suspension provide a feeling of connection to the road that's rare in the subcompact SUV segment. The 2.0-liter engine, while not the most powerful, provides sufficient acceleration and feels lively thanks to the car's relatively low weight. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and quick to respond, adding to the overall driving enjoyment. The AWD system provides added stability and grip, particularly in wet or snowy conditions, making the CX-3 a confident performer in various weather conditions. The ride quality is firm but not harsh, striking a good balance between comfort and sportiness. You'll feel connected to the road without sacrificing everyday comfort. The CX-3's handling is precise, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and enjoy on winding roads. The Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD is a joy to drive, with its sporty handling, responsive engine, and capable all-wheel-drive system. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. Its sporty handling and responsive engine contribute to a fun-to-drive experience, while its AWD system provides confidence in various driving conditions. It strikes a nice balance between comfort and sportiness, making it an excellent daily driver.

Driving Experience

Let's talk about the actual driving experience of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD. The moment you get behind the wheel, you'll notice the responsiveness of the steering and the eagerness of the engine. Mazda's engineers have done an excellent job of tuning the suspension, providing a comfortable ride while still maintaining excellent handling characteristics. The car feels planted and stable, even when cornering at higher speeds. The all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence, especially in slippery conditions. The CX-3 is surprisingly agile, making it easy to navigate city streets and parking lots. The visibility is also excellent, thanks to the elevated seating position and the large windows. The interior is well-designed, with comfortable seats and a user-friendly infotainment system. The driving position is comfortable, and the controls are within easy reach. The car’s compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces, but it still provides a surprisingly spacious interior for both front and rear passengers. The combination of sporty handling, comfortable ride, and practical features makes the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD a pleasure to drive. It's a vehicle that inspires confidence and makes every drive enjoyable.

Interior and Features of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD

Inside the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD, you're greeted with a stylish and well-appointed interior. Mazda has put a lot of attention into the details, using high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements. The Grand Touring trim boasts leather-trimmed seats, which add a touch of luxury and comfort. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, providing excellent support for long drives. The dashboard and door panels are made from soft-touch materials, which enhance the premium feel of the interior. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a 7-inch touchscreen display that's easy to navigate. The system includes features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium Bose sound system, which delivers excellent audio quality. The CX-3 also features a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. These features enhance the safety of the vehicle and provide added peace of mind. The interior design is modern and elegant, with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The controls are well-placed and easy to use, and the overall layout is intuitive. The CX-3 offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior that enhances the driving experience. It's a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. The Grand Touring trim includes premium features like a sunroof and upgraded sound system, which further enhance the overall experience.

Infotainment and Technology

Let’s dive into the infotainment and technology features found in the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD. The central element is the 7-inch touchscreen display, which serves as the hub for the infotainment system. The system is intuitive and easy to use, with a simple and clean interface. It includes features like navigation, allowing you to easily find your way around, and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone for hands-free calling and audio streaming. The Grand Touring trim also includes a premium Bose sound system, which delivers exceptional audio quality. The sound system includes multiple speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, ensuring an immersive listening experience. Other technological features include a rearview camera, which helps you with parking and backing up, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These safety features use sensors to monitor your surroundings and alert you to potential hazards, increasing your safety on the road. The CX-3 also offers a variety of connectivity options, including USB ports and an auxiliary input, allowing you to connect your devices and play your favorite music. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a simple and clean interface. It includes features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium Bose sound system. The technological features enhance the overall driving experience, making it more convenient and safer.

Safety Features of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD

Safety is a top priority in the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD, and Mazda has equipped this model with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants and prevent accidents. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and a suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. The Grand Touring trim also includes advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot, and rear cross-traffic alert, which helps you detect vehicles approaching from the side when you're backing up. Another important safety feature is the rearview camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The CX-3 also features a strong and rigid body structure, designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision. These features are designed to enhance your safety and provide peace of mind. The CX-3 is well-equipped to keep you and your passengers safe. The safety features are designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The combination of advanced safety features, a strong body structure, and standard safety systems makes the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD a safe and reliable vehicle.

Driver-Assistance Technologies

Let's explore the driver-assistance technologies incorporated in the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD. As mentioned, the Grand Touring trim is packed with features designed to assist the driver and enhance safety. Blind-spot monitoring is a key feature, utilizing sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerting you with a warning light on the side mirrors. This is particularly helpful when changing lanes or merging onto the highway. Rear cross-traffic alert is another important feature, warning you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway. A rearview camera is also standard, providing a clear view of the area behind the car, making parking and reversing easier. Other driver-assistance technologies include dynamic stability control, which helps to maintain vehicle stability in challenging driving conditions, and traction control, which helps to prevent wheel spin. The CX-3 also features a responsive braking system with anti-lock brakes, which helps to prevent wheel lockup and maintain steering control during emergency braking situations. These technologies work together to make the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD a safe and confidence-inspiring vehicle to drive. These technologies enhance safety and provide peace of mind. The driver-assistance technologies in the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD provide a comprehensive suite of safety features that enhance the driving experience.

Pros and Cons of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD

Alright, let’s weigh the pros and cons of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD. Knowing the good and the bad will help you make the best decision when you're considering buying one. On the pros side, the CX-3 is celebrated for its stylish design, sporty handling, and fuel efficiency. It is fun to drive, with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension. The interior is well-designed and features premium materials, offering a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The Grand Touring trim adds a range of desirable features, including a sunroof and a premium sound system. It also offers advanced safety features, providing added peace of mind. On the cons side, the CX-3 is a subcompact SUV, so cargo space is limited compared to larger SUVs. The rear seats can be a bit cramped for taller passengers. While the engine is fuel-efficient, it may not offer the most powerful acceleration in its class. Overall, the CX-3 is a fantastic choice for those who value style, driving dynamics, and fuel efficiency. However, if you need more cargo space or frequently carry passengers in the rear, you might want to consider a larger vehicle. The pros of the CX-3 include its stylish design, sporty handling, fuel efficiency, well-appointed interior, and advanced safety features. The cons include its limited cargo space, cramped rear seats, and less powerful engine compared to some competitors. However, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages, especially for those prioritizing a fun-to-drive and stylish subcompact SUV.

Advantages

Let's break down the advantages of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD. Firstly, the design is a major selling point. The CX-3 boasts a stylish and modern exterior, with sleek lines and an athletic stance, setting it apart from its competitors. Secondly, the driving experience is a standout feature. Mazda prioritizes driving dynamics, and the CX-3 delivers, with responsive steering, a well-tuned suspension, and a feeling of connection to the road. Thirdly, fuel efficiency is excellent. The CX-3 offers impressive MPG ratings, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving. Fourthly, the interior is well-designed and comfortable. The Grand Touring trim includes premium materials, such as leather-trimmed seats, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Fifthly, the inclusion of the AWD system is another great advantage, providing increased traction and stability in various weather conditions. Sixthly, it comes with advanced safety features, which offer added peace of mind. The CX-3 provides a fun-to-drive experience, excellent fuel economy, and a well-appointed interior. These advantages make it a compelling choice in the subcompact SUV segment.

Disadvantages

Let's also look at the potential disadvantages of the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD. The primary disadvantage is the limited cargo space. As a subcompact SUV, the CX-3 offers less cargo capacity compared to larger SUVs in its class, which could be a dealbreaker for some. Another disadvantage is the rear passenger space, which can be cramped, especially for taller adults. The 2.0-liter engine, while fuel-efficient, isn't the most powerful in its class. Acceleration might not be as brisk as some drivers prefer. The infotainment system, although user-friendly, might not have the most advanced features compared to some competitors. The CX-3 has a smaller size that might not appeal to those looking for a more spacious vehicle. The limited cargo space, cramped rear seats, and engine performance are potential drawbacks, depending on your individual needs. The CX-3 is a fantastic vehicle, but it’s important to be aware of the downsides, so you can make an informed decision.

Comparisons with Competitors

Let's see how the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD stacks up against its competitors. This helps you understand where the CX-3 excels and where it might fall short in comparison. When compared to the Honda HR-V, the CX-3 often wins in terms of driving dynamics and interior quality. The HR-V offers more cargo space, but the CX-3 provides a more engaging driving experience. In comparison to the Subaru Crosstrek, the CX-3 often is more stylish and refined, while the Crosstrek might have slightly more off-road capability. The Nissan Juke, another competitor, offers a more unique design, but the CX-3 generally provides a more polished overall package. The Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD stands out for its driving dynamics, interior quality, and stylish design. It competes well in the subcompact SUV segment. Its competitors are Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Nissan Juke. Mazda CX-3 often comes out on top for its driving dynamics and overall refinement.

Honda HR-V

Let's delve deeper into a comparison with the Honda HR-V. The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD and the Honda HR-V are both popular choices in the subcompact SUV market, but they cater to slightly different needs. The HR-V typically offers more cargo space and a more versatile interior, making it a practical choice for those who frequently carry cargo or passengers. However, the CX-3 shines in driving dynamics. The Mazda offers more responsive steering, a more engaging driving experience, and a more refined interior. The HR-V might be a better choice if space is a priority, while the CX-3 is the better choice for those who value driving pleasure. The Honda HR-V offers more cargo space and a versatile interior, but the Mazda CX-3 offers a more engaging driving experience and refined interior.

Subaru Crosstrek

Now, let's compare the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD with the Subaru Crosstrek. The Crosstrek is known for its all-wheel-drive capabilities and rugged design, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy outdoor adventures. The CX-3, on the other hand, excels in driving dynamics and offers a more stylish and refined interior. The Crosstrek might be a better choice if you frequently drive on unpaved roads or need more ground clearance. The CX-3 is a great choice for those who prioritize a comfortable and engaging driving experience and value a more upscale interior. The Subaru Crosstrek is great for those who value off-road capability, while the Mazda CX-3 focuses on providing a more comfortable and engaging driving experience.

Final Verdict on the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD

So, what's the final verdict on the 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD? Overall, it's a fantastic subcompact SUV that excels in many areas. Its stylish design, sporty handling, and well-appointed interior make it a joy to drive and own. The Grand Touring trim offers a wealth of features, including advanced safety technologies and a premium sound system, further enhancing the overall experience. While it may have some limitations in terms of cargo space and rear passenger room, these are minor drawbacks compared to its strengths. The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish, fun-to-drive, and well-equipped subcompact SUV. It is a compelling option in the subcompact SUV market. The final verdict is highly positive, with the CX-3 earning high marks for its driving experience, interior quality, and overall value. It is a fantastic option for those seeking a stylish, practical, and fun-to-drive subcompact SUV.

Recommendations

If you're considering buying a 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD, here are a few recommendations to keep in mind. First, carefully evaluate your needs. If you prioritize cargo space and frequently transport large items, the CX-3 might not be the best fit. Consider your daily driving habits and whether you value driving dynamics and a more engaging experience. Test drive the vehicle to get a feel for its handling and comfort. Check the vehicle's history report to ensure it has a clean record. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly for any signs of wear and tear, and consider having it inspected by a trusted mechanic before making a purchase. Make sure to research the reliability ratings and common issues associated with the 2016 Mazda CX-3 to be well-informed before making a purchase. Be sure to check its maintenance history, and ensure it has been well-maintained. Always prioritize a test drive to see if it suits your needs. These recommendations will help you make an informed decision and ensure you're getting a great vehicle.