Mazda Confirms New CX-3 for 2027, But Its Teaser Featured the Wrong SUV

Mazda has officially confirmed that a next-generation CX-3 crossover will arrive in 2027, putting an end to speculation about the model's future. The subcompact SUV had remained largely unchanged since 2014 and ceased production in Japan in early 2026.

The confirmation came buried in Mazda's mid-year financial report, which also revealed that the model will keep the CX-3 badge rather than adopting a new name like CX-20. However, the company's teaser image was misleading: the dark silhouette shown beside the "next-generation CX-3" lettering is actually the previous-gen CX-5 (KF Series).

Despite the mix-up, Mazda has shared two official sketches from an event in Thailand last year. These drawings show a sporty small SUV with the latest evolution of Mazda's design language, including a front end echoing the new CX-5 and a rear with a coupe-style roofline and taillights similar to those on the Vision X-Compact concept, which is expected to evolve into the next Mazda2.

The new CX-3 will ride on a Mazda platform, unlike some jointly developed projects, and is expected to offer gasoline, mild-hybrid, and full-hybrid powertrains. This variety may allow Mazda to keep a six-speed manual transmission for non-hybrid versions.

Production will take place at the AutoAlliance Thailand (AAT) facility, with Thai-assembled units exported to Japan, other ASEAN markets, and additional global regions starting in 2027. The CX-3 will remain Mazda's entry-level SUV, positioned below the CX-30.

The corporate documentation indicates that the new model is aimed at high-volume sales segments, particularly in Asia and Oceania, where the original CX-3 maintained strong demand throughout its long lifecycle. Rivals in various markets will include the Toyota Yaris Cross, Honda HR-V, Ford Puma, Peugeot 2008, Jeep Avenger, Renault Captur, Nissan Juke, Hyundai Bayon, and VW T-Cross.

More revealing teasers are expected in the coming months.