Mazda CX-20 could succeed the Mazda CX-3

After more than a decade on sale, the Mazda CX-3 is finally preparing to hand over the baton. At a recent event in Thailand, the Japanese brand indicated that its successor is on the way - and even showed two sketches of the new model.

Although few details have been confirmed so far, the new vehicle appears likely to be called the CX-20, with development already under way. It is worth remembering that the CX-3 has not been sold in Europe since 2021.

Mazda CX-20 design sketches

The released sketches reveal little and remain far from depicting the finished production model, but they point to the adoption of the Kodo design language alongside several recognisable cues.

At the front, there is a large grille paired with slimmer LED headlights. At the rear, circular light units give the model a distinctive lighting signature.

Viewed from the side, the CX-20 has a sporty stance, with a strongly curved, coupé-like roofline. The roof is also finished in a contrasting colour to the rest of the bodywork. No interior images have been revealed.

Hybrid powertrains? Yes

Mazda has invested around €131 million in its Thai factory to build a new generation of electrified compact SUVs. The CX-20 is therefore expected to feature, at the very least, a mild-hybrid system.

Mazda is known to be developing a hybrid (full hybrid) powertrain, although it has so far only been linked with the CX-5 successor, due in 2027.

As with the CX-3, the successor is expected to come with front-wheel drive as standard, though all-wheel-drive versions have not been ruled out.

When will it arrive?

There is still no definite answer to that question. The Mazda CX-20 - a name that has yet to be confirmed - could be unveiled within the next 18 months. However, the model is reportedly focused on the South-East Asian market.

Its European launch has not yet been confirmed.