2014 Los Angeles - Mazda CX-3 is a reminder of what we miss in India

If you think that we Indians are alone when it comes to preferring crossovers, think again. These wannabe Sport Utility Vehicles are the in-trend bodystyle globally and automakers are scrambling over each other trying to fill up gaps in their crossover portfolio. Mazda had one such vacuum in the compact end of the segment that's seeing a spate of action in the form of Fiat 500 X, Honda H-RV, Hyundai ix25 and Ford Ecosport. The new CX-3, that made its global debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show last week, fills that space rather nicely.

The CX-3 is the fifth all-new model launched by Mazda in the recent past, featuring a full suite of SKYACTIV technology covering everything from the engine and transmission to the body and chassis. Of late, all Mazda models have featured strong design elements based on the Japanese brand's 'KODO - Soul of Motion' design language and the CX-3 is no exception. The bold front end is dominated by the seven-slat radiator grille underscored by the signature wing that extends into the headlights. The long nose paves way for a steeply-raked greenhouse that gently curves upwards before ending flush with the rear windscreen. The blackened C-pillars and the mish-mash of character lines stand out on either sides. The rear is a lot humbler and quite similar to the Mazda 2 but that doesn't mean it's not good.

If the exteriors impressed us, the interiors, atleast from what we see in the images released by Mazda, floored us. Uncluttered and classy, the CX-3's interiors look refreshingly clean unlike the busy interiors that most new cars come with these days. The contrast provided by the dark red accents in the doorpads and floor console kneepads is a tasteful touch as are the three circular air-conditioner vents. Under the hood, Mazda's SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine mated to the SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission powers all four wheels through the company's new-generation AWD system that employs a claimed world's first front wheel slip warning detection system. All that tech talk just means one thing to us - the CX-3 has the go to match its show.

Given that pseudo-crossovers like the Fiat Avventura and Toyota Etios Cross are finding favour in our country, imagine the potential that this sexy little crossover from Mazda has. Combining stylish looks with Japanese reliability, the CX-3 can give the Ecosports and Dusters a good fight. If nothing, the CX-3 is a harsh reminder of what we are missing from Mazda's potent stable in India. Let the sighs begin!