Like a few of its competitors, the Mazda CX-3 is based on a stretched version of a subcompact hatchback, in this case the next-generation Mazda2. Despite its Mazda2 underpinnings, the CX-3 is actually slightly smaller than a Mazda3 hatchback, making it an easy transition for young buyers coming out of and upgrading from compact cars. One engine and one transmission are offered on all CX-3s, a 2.0-liter I-4 making 146 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. As you'd expect in the class, front-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive available across the board. Thanks to an estimated 2,800-pound curb weight for front-drive versions (figure another 150 pounds or so for all-wheel-drive CX-3s), the sprint from 0-60 mph will probably take around 8-9 seconds for both versions. While the CX-3's numbers won't set the world on fire, they're about par for the course in the segment with the HR-V -- the vehicle Mazda targets as the CX-3's biggest threat -- making 141 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. Mazda expects front-drive CX-3s to best the HR-V in fuel economy, so expect to see the cute-ute to net as much as 29/36 mpg city/highway for front-drive models.

The Mazda CX-3 is compact, lightweight, and efficient, all of which makes it a pleasure to drive. At a drive event in Scottsdale, Ariz., I spent the morning behind the wheel of a loaded CX-3 Grand Touring equipped with all-wheel drive, before swapping into a front-drive midlevel CX-3 Touring. No matter the drivetrain, the CX-3 drives well. My biggest initial concern -- a lack of power -- turned out to be for naught. The CX-3 gets off the line quick enough around town and nicely accelerates to highway speeds. There's plenty of passing power too, as I learned in what's pretty much a perfect example of a worst-case scenario: on the highway, passing two eighteen-wheelers, uphill, at 4,000 feet, and in 95-degree desert heat. Not too shabby. The six-speed automatic is pretty good too, though it does try to spend as much time as possible in sixth gear.

Equally impressive is how true to Mazda's roots the CX-3 is in twisty switchback roads. The CX-3 handles as well as you'd expect of any Mazda, with well-controlled body roll, quick responses, and the perfect amount of heft and effort from the steering. There's a sport mode too, which quickens the steering and throttle responses, holds gears longer, and rev-matches downshifts.