One aspect where the CX-3 leads its class—and one that cements Mazda's notability as being a fun brand—is in the accelerator pedal. Electronic engine controls have made the art of throttle tuning a paradise for software enthusiasts. Those enthusiasts at Mazda must also enjoy driving.

The CX-3's six-speed automatic transmission seldom feels like it's forced to downshift when the spurs are applied, which is satisfying and encouraging to the driver. It doesn't take much gas pedal pressure to summon a lower gear or two. The resulting gear change(s) and new acceleration rate goes with the driving flow, whether you're speeding up slightly to hit a traffic gap or briskly exiting a bend on a fun road. Software makes the difference between a nervous, jumpy throttle and a throttle that feels like it can't be bothered to react. The CX-3 is committed to its user. There's a kick-down switch at the end of the pedal's throw in case you want to let those lines of code know that you're serious.

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All of this reassuring responsiveness comes at the expense of fuel economy. The first three months' 35 fill-ups average to 27.7 mpg after mixed driving conditions. Motor Trend's gold standard Real MPG lists 24.4/31.1/27.0 mpg city/highway/combined for our AWD Grand Touring vehicle, which is not a comfortable lead over the EPA's claimed 25 mpg for the average new vehicle. (This small CX-3 is rated 27/32/29 mpg by EPA method.)

There have been no major hiccups, and the single demand has been $63.47 for an uninspired mélange of an oil change, inspection, and tire rotation at the first 7,500-mile dealer service.

MORE ON OUR LONG-TERM MAZDA CX-3 GT AWD HERE:

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