Mazda CX-3 discontinued in Japan, Australian supply to continue

It is now confirmed that the Mazda CX-3 will cease production in its home market of Japan later this month, bringing an end to more than a decade of production for the brand’s smallest SUV. However, the popular light SUV will remain on sale in Australia “for the foreseeable future”.

Japanese production to end after a decade

Production of the Mazda CX-3 for the Japanese market will conclude at the end of February 2026, more than 10 years after the model debuted in early 2015. A notice published on Mazda Japan’s website confirms order books will soon close, stating: “Please note that orders will be closed once the maximum number of orders is reached.”

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Australia reassured as global production continues

Despite the decision in Japan, Mazda Australia has moved quickly to reassure local buyers that the CX-3 will continue to be offered, with production ongoing in Thailand and Mexico for global markets. Australian examples are currently sourced from Thailand.

Mazda Australia spokesperson said, “Production of Mazda 2 and CX-3 is continuing in Japan (Hofu plant) and Thailand, respectively, and we will announce future product plans at an appropriate time.”

“In addition, CX-3 will also continue at the Mexico plant. Going forward, Mazda will continue to optimise its product line-up and production locations based on market demand and regulatory requirements in each global market. From Mazda Australia’s perspective, we will of course continue to offer CX-3 locally for the foreseeable future.”

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Strong local demand

The Mazda CX-3 remains one of Australia’s most popular light SUVs, finishing 2025 as the segment’s best-seller with 15,429 units sold. That result placed it comfortably ahead of key rivals, including the Toyota Yaris Cross (10,928) and Hyundai Venue (7927).

The model also enjoyed a record-breaking year in 2024, when it achieved 18,461 sales, making it Mazda Australia’s second-best-selling vehicle behind only the larger CX-5.

Mazda CX-3 features & specifications

The Mazda CX-3 offers a well-equipped and user-friendly cabin, with a focus on comfort, connectivity and safety. Standard features across the range include an 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital radio, Bluetooth connectivity, push-button start, and keyless entry. Higher-grade variants add features such as leather-appointed upholstery, heated front seats, head-up display, 360-degree camera system, satellite navigation, premium audio system, and dual-zone climate control.

The specifications of the Mazda CX-3 are as follows: 

Despite its compact footprint, the Mazda CX-3 delivers strong performance for urban driving, competitive fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride, helping it remain one of Australia’s best-selling light SUVs.

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What’s next for the Mazda CX-3?

While the current model is being phased out in Japan, a next-generation small SUV is already on the horizon. Mazda has confirmed a five billion baht ($233 million) investment in Thailand to produce an electrified small SUV from 2027, with early design sketches hinting at a replacement for the CX-3.

Further clues emerged at the 2025 Tokyo Motor Show, where the Mazda Vision X-Compact concept previewed the brand’s future direction for compact vehicles. The concept suggested the next-generation Mazda 2 and CX-3 could potentially merge into a single electrified model, reflecting changing buyer preferences and stricter emissions regulations.

For now, however, Australian buyers can rest easy knowing the Mazda CX-3 remains firmly part of the local lineup, even as the clock winds down on production in its home market.