Why I Wouldn't Trade This Ksh2.3M Mazda CX-3 Ride for Anything Else 

‍Welcome to the Money254 Car Series — where we spotlight car owners across Kenya and their experiences behind the wheel. From first-time buyers to seasoned motorists, we dig into the motivations, costs, lessons, and joys of owning different car models in Kenya today.

‍This week, we feature Maxwell, who shares what it’s like driving a 2018 Mazda CX-5.

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At 28, I wasn't looking for a family SUV or a car that could conquer muddy village roads every other weekend. As a software engineer, my priorities were different. 

I wanted something stylish enough to reflect where I am in life, practical enough for my daily commute, and affordable enough to keep my financial goals on track. 

That search led me to a 2018 Mazda CX-3. I bought it in November 2024 for Ksh2.3 million

Why I Chose the Mazda CX-3

I'll admit it. I bought it with my eyes first. There's something about Mazda's design. It has the presence of a premium European car without the intimidating maintenance bills that often come with some of the brands, especially German machines.

But looks alone weren't enough.

I also wanted a car that wouldn't punish me every time I filled up at the petrol station. Mazda's SkyActiv diesel technology had built a reputation for excellent fuel economy, and after doing my research, it ticked every box.

Also Read: Why I Imported My Mazda CX-5 Instead of Buying Locally

Built for My Lifestyle

Most of my driving revolves around work. Like many people working in Nairobi's tech industry, my weekdays are spent moving between the office, client meetings, and the occasional coffee catch-up after work.

Come the weekend, the CX-3 becomes my escape machine. Whether it's a road trip with friends, lunch dates, or spontaneous drives out of Nairobi, it's always ready to go.

Being single also means I don't need an oversized SUV. The CX-3 is the perfect size for my current stage in life. 

Fuel Economy 

If there's one thing that continues to impress me, it's the fuel consumption. My CX-3 comes with the 1.5-litre diesel engine.

On an average day, I get around 17 kilometres per litre. Once I'm out on the highway, that figure climbs to approximately 20 km/l.

Also Read: Driving the Mercedes CLA 220 Has Been a Dream Come True, But There is a Catch

Maitainance

Owning the CX-3 has been relatively straightforward, but it isn't completely maintenance-free.

I service it every 5,000 kilometres. A minor service costs me around Ksh10,000, while major servicing typically comes to about Ksh25,000.

The biggest challenge has been the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Like many modern diesel vehicles, the CX-3 doesn't particularly enjoy Nairobi's endless traffic jams.

 The DPF tends to clog more frequently because of short urban trips, meaning I occasionally have to pay for de-clogging to keep the engine running efficiently.

Another expense that caught me by surprise was Mazda's specialised i-Stop battery. I've also had to replace suspension bushings, thanks to potholes and bumps.

On getting spare parts, they are generally available because the CX-3 has built a strong following in Kenya. 

Also Read: I Bought My Volvo XC60 for Ksh5.5M – Here’s My Experience After 5 Months

The Compromises

As much as I enjoy the car, there are a few things I'd happily change. The first is cargo space.

The CX-3 isn't built for carrying lots of luggage, and that's something you notice whenever you're travelling with friends.

Ground clearance is another limitation.

Although it looks like an SUV, it isn't designed for rough terrain. Whenever my friends suggest exploring off-road destinations, I usually become the first person to recommend somewhere with tarmac all the way.

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