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Motoring

Mazda CX-3 – a crossover with style

and the standard 16” alloys. It’s a to drive with a decent steering
firm passage across our ruined roads weight for once. The lightweight
but it is not so hard as to cause construction makes the Mazda CX-3
discomfort. I would steer clear of nimble with improved stability and
the fancy big wheels optionally linear handling.
available. They look good but ride As mentioned there’s a choice of
quality could be compromised. one petrol (118bhp rising to 148bhp
Mazda eschew the ubiquitous in the range-topping AWD version)
turbocharger in favour of their and one diesel plus a choice of front
‘Skyactiv’ approach to vehicle and all-wheel-drive transmissions.
design and performance. The Mazda The 2.0-litre petrol engine is quite
CX-3 body is both lightweight and vocal and has a rorty manner to
Geoff Maxted of Drivewrite.co.uk takes the Mazda CX-3 for a spin ultra-strong, providing enhanced it although it is by no means an
fuel economy and outstanding crash unpleasant noise. The 1.5L diesel
The Mazda CX-3 (tested here in 2.0L the pseudo-carbon fibre details. On protection. The technology extends may well be more economical but
2WD SE-L Nav trim) arrived late the other hand passengers rather to the chassis with the aim of I think the extra weight would
to the crossover party and many liked it as it is, so that’s me told. providing the ideal balance between compromise performance. My
of the guests have already settled Although I would have liked a precise handling and ride comfort. view would be stick to the petrol
comfortably into the sector. But, little more reach adjustment on SKYACTIV engines increases engines and still get well over forty
attractive late-comers are always the steering column I was able torque, provides low CO² emissions, miles to the gallon delivered in an
welcome as they bring a welcome to accomplish a very relaxed and and outstanding fuel consumption. entertaining way.
bottle of fizz to top up the bar. laid-back driving position. Front The 2.0L petrol engine is set up for If the Mazda CX-3 has an issue it
I settled into this small SUV very and rear the seats are comfortable economy over performance in the is practicality. It does not provide
quickly. I personally found the although lanky folk in the back are case of the version tested here. But enough room in the back and the
interior to be a bit too matt black a tad short on legroom but that’s for a livelier drive then you have boot, whilst adequate, really is not
and would have preferred a few the usual small car complaint. to keep the revs right up at which big enough for a family. It does
lighter touches like the smart red The excellent seats, coupled with a point the car shows what it can do. however offer a little extra space
surrounds on the circular air vents. high driving position and little wind Based on the CX-2 supermini, this thanks to a secret compartment. No
There’s a fine line between taste noise from the attractively styled is a small crossover with a big heart. matter which model you choose,
and tacky but a little extra contrast body all work in the Mazda CX-3’s The Mazda CX-3 really stands out you get solid construction, quality
would have been nice; possibly favour. Ride is at its best when the from behind the wheel, and I reckon materials, excellent design and a
some bright piano black instead of car is fitted with a petrol engine it’s possibly the best crossover good driving experience.
Success in battle for safe road in Grange Park

Youngsters attending Tregoze Mobile Car
Primary School now have a safer ServiCing
route to school thanks to the
persistence of parent Tracey Boxall & repairS
and others who pressed local
councillors and Robert Buckland MP ★ Electrical work
for action by Swindon Council. ★ MoTs arranged
A zebra crossing was completed (no re-test fee)
in mid-July just before the end ★ All vehicle diagnostics
of term. Tracey said: “It’s been 28 For a reliable local service
months since I started a petition with over 30 years experience
amongst parents to get the council
to take the dangers of Hay Lane SAVE 20% - No VAT to pay
seriously. The volume of vehicles Call Graham on (01793)
using the road has grown massively Doing an Abbey Road on Hay Lane, from Cllr Tim Swinyard, parent Tracy 873045 or 07867 556350
over the last few years because Boxall, Cllr Caryl Sydney-Smith, Robert Buckland MP
more drivers are trying to take short
cuts through residential areas away
from main roads. a protest calling for the crossing
“I’m delighted to see the crossing earlier this year, it’s great to see
completed at last and I’d like to it finished. Tracey organised an
thank Tregoze pupil Reggie White excellent campaign and Cllr Tim
for writing such a nice thank you Swinyard pushed hard for the right
letter.” decision in the council.”
Robert Buckland MP said he was Watch the videos about crossing
equally delighted. “After joining on Facebook: Swindon Link

New mini-railway station and loop at Coate
The Coate Water Railway will be opening its brand new 600m loop
extension and new Richard Jefferies Halt station on Sunday 31 July.
A grand opening ceremony for families as well as Robert Buckland MP
and other key figures from Swindon Borough Council and local business
leaders will be from 11.30am.
The event is part of Swindon 175’s celebrations.
swindonlink.com n August 2016 37

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