2019 Mazda CX-3

The cheapest trim is the Sport, with an MSRP of $20,390. The mid-range Touring costs $22,475 and the fully-loaded Grand Touring is $25,745. These prices exclude tax, licensing, registration, and a destination charge of $1,045. All-wheel-drive is available on all trims at an additional $1,400.

While the option might exist for all-wheel-drive, unless you live in a state frequently visited by Jack Frost, we'd avoid the option. The front-wheel-drive models are more than good enough at dealing with the available power, and the chassis is simply one of the best in the subcompact segment. It's easy to forget the CX-3 is a crossover, as, truth told, the 6.1 inches of ground clearance is barely more than hatchback status, and the way the CX-3 behaves is nothing like a traditional crossover.

The steering is beautifully weighted, feels fluid, and points the front end exactly where you want it. And while there isn't much feedback, the linearity of responses and the keenness to change direction are more than fair compensation. There's an abundance of grip from the front end too, and if you can look past the slow gearbox and hustle the CX-3 down a twisty road, you'll be amazed at the balance and poise provided by the chassis.

It's largely down to the suspension setup, which absorbs all but the largest bumps with aplomb while dealing with mid-corner abrasions as if they were barely even there. It affords some playfulness, too, with little tastes of lift-off oversteer for the enthusiastic driver. The brakes are good, too, but they lack feel. However, they'll stop consistently quick and take all the abuse standard road use should send their way.

The ride is super-refined as well, with noises from the outside environment kept at bay incredibly well. But unfortunately, so is the view of much of the outside world, as the large B and C pillars create fairly sizable blind spots, making the CX-3 feel larger on the road than it is.

Crossovers are appealing for a number of reasons, chief of which are the increased ride height and increased practicality afforded by a larger vehicle. Both of these are areas in which the CX-3 falls short, with ride height no greater than a regular subcompact hatch and extremely limited cargo space, as well as limited rear passenger space. It's no more than a hatchback with some wheel arch cladding giving it the title of 'faux by four'. But forget about the classification and enjoy the CX-3 for what it is, and you'll find there's much to love. Safety is top-notch, and the best features are at least available on base trims, the driving dynamics are superb, and the interior feels like it belongs in the premium segment, not in something that costs less than $30,000. It's a frugal runner, too, and the levels of available specification are excellent. But the automatic gearbox is a letdown, the limited cabin and cargo space a deal-breaker for small families, and the lack of smartphone integration a very sore point. The CX-3 is a wonderful car, but it's best enjoyed by someone who enjoys living a solitary life enjoying the finer things, without having to pay all that much for them.

It's tempting to jump headlong into buying the Grand Touring model we had on test, as it's a fully-loaded premium offering right off the showroom floor, and frankly, that's how we'd spend our money. Opting for a mid-spec Touring and adding on options packages to achieve the same level of spec ends up being pricier, and you don't get full leather seats or LED headlights that come standard on the Grand Touring. We'd choose Soul Red for the exterior color - there really doesn't need to be any other available color choice in our minds - and forego the optional Premium package, as the manual seats are fine, the heated steering is unnecessary, and the auto-dimming rearview mirror can be added as a standalone option. As for all-wheel-drive, unless you live in a snow-prone area, it's not worth the extra outlay.

While the CX-3 could easily be mistaken for a regular hatchback, there will be no such misjudgments with the larger CX-5. Starting at $4,000 more than the CX-3, the CX-5 immediately atones for the CX-3's major shortcomings by offering more rear-seat space and over double the amount of cargo space, which is significant. The underpowered base engine aside, the CX-5 has the option of a 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder that comfortably outperforms the CX-3. Both have smart interiors that feel more premium than you'd expect, but the CX-5 also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with both smartphone integrations missing from the CX-3. Both SUVs are among the most fun to drive in their respective segments, with sharp steering setting these Mazda twins apart from the pack. With its extra space and much larger trunk, the CX-5 is the better SUV, but if you'll be using the back seat for little more than extra storage space, the CX-3 remains a compelling little crossover.

An interesting foil to the Mazda CX-3, the Subaru Crosstrek edges closer to the traditional SUV experience, with a raised ride height making it not only look like the more rugged option, but also giving it an edge over the CX-3 when not driving on smooth tarmac. Also more SUV-like is the Crosstrek's cargo capacity, which at over 20 cubic feet comfortably outclasses the CX-3's puny offering. The Subaru is also better for carrying passengers in the back. However, the Mazda fights back with a far more engaging driving experience, outpacing the Subaru in a straight line and when the road gets twisty. The Crosstrek is found wanting with its sluggish 152-hp engine. Although the Crosstrek's cabin is a pleasant enough affair, the CX-3 looks and feels more premium. If you want some actual SUV versatility and space, the Crosstrek takes this easily, but if you prefer your SUV to offer an experience that's more car-like, the CX-3 wins.