Mazda has recently released a new sub-compact crossover called the CX-30, which sits above the smaller CX-3 but below the compact CX-5. Now with two sub-compact crossovers in the lineup, the 2020 Mazda CX-3 has been updated to ensure there is less overlap with the CX-30. The 2020 Mazda CX-30 starts at $22,945 and can reach $29,600 for the Premium Package with AWD. For the 2019 model year, the CX-3 was priced between $20,390 to $27,145 but for 2020, Mazda will significantly cut down on trim levels to keep it from cannibalizing CX-30 sales.

The 2020 CX-3 will only be available in one trim level, the Sport trim, with either front-wheel-drive or i-Activ all-wheel-drive. Mazda has eliminated the Touring and Grand Touring trim levels but added some key standard features.

All CX-3 models now come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a feature that was missing on the 2019 model. Mazda's i-Activsense safety features also come standard adding adaptive cruise control with stop and go, smart city braking, lane departure warning, high beam control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Other standard features include automatic climate control, push-button start, LED lights, rain-sensing wipers, and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Output remains unchanged from the CX-3's 2.0-liter four-cylinder Skyactiv-G engine. It produces 148 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque going out through a six-speed automatic. Fuel economy is rated at 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with FWD or 27/32 mpg city/highway with FWD.

Pricing for the 2020 Mazda CX-3 Sport with FWD starts at $20,640 while the AWD model starts at $22,040. The only available options are premium paint colors including Snowflake White Pearl Mica for $200, Machine Gray Metallic for $300, and Soul Red Crystal Metallic for $595. Simplifying the CX-3 lineup should stop it from cannibalizing sales from the more premium-oriented CX-30 while also providing buyers with tremendous value. Even this base CX-3 comes well-equipped and should still attract buyers who can't spend up for the CX-30.