The compact crossover will rival models such as the Nissan Juke, bringing Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology and KODO: Soul of Motion design language and a choice of two or four-wheel drive.

Styling elements include the signature ‘wing’ front grille, KODO design lines and bold headlamp styling along with sweeping a-pillars and coupe-like profile and higher ride height.  

To aid practicality, the CX-3 brings a spacious 350-litre boot and a flexible cargo board boot floor that can be lifted to provide a flat load space when the standard 60:40 split fold rear seats are tumbled.

The 18 model line-up will offer a choice of 11 petrol and seven diesel variants with five trim levels.

Engines include the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre petrol engine, which is offered with either 118bhp or 148bhp and is predicted to account for around 50% of UK sales. Available in all trims, with both SKYACTIV-MT manual and SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmissions, the 118bhp engine with front-wheel drive will make up the bulk of the line-up. The petrol range also includes the range-topping 148bhp engine matched exclusively to all-wheel drive (AWD), and a six-speed manual gearbox in Sport Nav trim.

Just one diesel engine is offered – the 104bhp SKYACTIV-D 1.5-litre diesel engine debuted in the Mazda2. As with petrol versions, front-wheel drive models make up the majority of the range and bring emissions of 105g/km with official combined economy of 70.6mpg. There’s also the SKYACTIV-D Sport Nav AWD, which is available with both manual and automatic transmissions and costs £24,695 OTR.

Standard kit includes Mazda’s latest i-ACTIVSENSE safety systems. SE models feature 16-inch alloy wheels, plus heated and power folding mirrors, while SE-L models add rear privacy glass and front LED fog lights. At the top of the range, the CX-3 Sport Nav brings LED headlights, along with signature LED rear lights; 18-inch Gun-metallic diamond-cut alloy wheels and chrome accent door sills.

Inside, the Mazda CX-3 features a 7-inch colour touchscreen, DAB radio,  Bluetooth and a multifunction steering wheel across all models, while SE-L models benefit from heated front seats, automatic climate control and rain-sensing wipers. Sport Nav models bring navigation including 3-years free European map updates, Bose surround sound, smart keyless entry and Mazda’s Active Driving Display head-up display system.

Standard safety kit includes curtain airbags. Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Dynamic Stability Control, while SE-L and Sport Nav models feature Mazda’s Lane Departure Warning System and Smart City Brake Support. All models get cruise control, while rear parking sensors are standard from SE-L grade onwards, and Sport Nav models also benefit from a reversing camera.