Facelifted Mazda CX-3 on sale August 31

Mazda has announced UK pricing and specifications for the latest version of its CX-3 compact SUV, after the model made its debut at the New York Motor Show in March.

The new CX-3 starts from £18,995 and comes with several key changes over the outgoing machine, including new technology, updated engines and a refreshed interior.

Exterior changes are minimal, and the 2018 CX-3 is distinguished by a revised grille and darker side pillar treatment. Mazda’s Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint is also available. The looks are enhanced by LED foglights and privacy glass on all but entry-level cars, while top-spec models benefit from LED head and tail-lights, 18-inch silver alloy wheels and chrome effect bumper garnishes.

Inside the CX-3 is where the bulk of the changes have been made. The centre console has been redesigned to accommodate an electric parking brake, allowing the rotary infotainment controller to move further forward for better accessibility. There’s now a padded armrest with a storage box underneath, too.

Improved foam padding in the seats aim to improve comfort, while rear occupants now benefit from a central armrest. All four doors have upgraded sill trims, increased insulation and thicker glazing to improve refinement.

Aiming to continue the car’s reputation as one of the best-driving small SUVs around, Mazda’s fettled the suspension with new coil springs and dampers, plus it’s fitted a new anti-roll bar and recalibrated power steering.

On the engine front, the CX-3 continues with Mazda’s naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol, available with either 118bhp or 148bhp. There’s also a brand-new diesel engine with a capacity of 1.8-litres, up from 1.5-litres in the previous car. It produces 113bhp, but Mazda has not provided efficiency figures. It says, however, that it meets taxing new Euro 6d emissions standards.

The newly simplified trim structure kicks off with SE Nav+, starting from £18,995. Next up from that is SE-L Nav+, from £20,395, and up to Sport Nav+, from £21,695. Opting for an automatic gearbox adds around £1,000 to the list price. Prices for the new diesel engine have not been revealed yet.