Mazda will end CX‑3 and Mazda2 production in 2026. Discover the Vision X‑Compact and CX‑20 concepts set to replace them and impact Vietnam. Read more!
After more than a decade on the market, Mazda’s compact offerings – the CX‑3 SUV and the Mazda2 hatchback – are facing a decisive turning point. Industry sources confirm that Mazda will cease global production of both models in 2026, prompting speculation about what will fill the void, especially in fast‑growing markets like Vietnam.
Global Phase‑Out Timeline
According to a report from Japan’s Creative Trend, Mazda’s internal documents outline a clear shutdown schedule. The CX‑3 will exit the production line in March 2026, followed by the Mazda2 in June of the same year. Both vehicles have been in continuous production since 2014, receiving only minor facelifts to stay relevant.
Mazda’s Replacement Strategy for the Mazda2
While the Mazda2 has been a reliable city‑car, the brand is already teasing a successor. The newly unveiled Vision X‑Compact Concept at the 2025 Japan Mobility Expo showcases a shorter, more futuristic hatchback equipped with AI‑driven features. At roughly 255 mm shorter than the current Mazda2, the concept promises tighter urban maneuverability and a fresh design language.
Key Highlights
- Compact dimensions ideal for congested city streets.
- Integrated AI assistant for driver‑enhanced safety and infotainment.
- Hybrid‑ready powertrain options targeting lower emissions.
The Future of the CX‑3 SUV
The CX‑3 has enjoyed steady sales in the sub‑compact SUV segment, and Mazda is unlikely to abandon this niche. At a recent press event in Thailand, executives previewed sketches of a new urban SUV – rumored to be named the CX‑20. The design draws heavily from the larger CX‑5, featuring a broader stance, sharper lines, and a more aggressive front grille.
Competitive Landscape
The CX‑20 is expected to compete directly with models such as the Toyota Yaris Cross and Mitsubishi Xforce, both of which are gaining traction in Southeast Asian cities. By leveraging the CX‑5’s design cues, Mazda aims to offer a premium feel while remaining affordable for the B‑segment market.
What This Means for Vietnamese Buyers
Vietnam has been an early adopter of the CX‑3, with local assembly beginning at the end of 2023. The impending discontinuation could raise concerns, but it also opens the door for newer, more technology‑rich models to be produced locally. Mazda’s strategy appears to focus on maintaining a strong presence in the city‑car and sub‑compact SUV categories by replacing aging platforms with concept‑driven successors.
For drivers who have come to rely on the CX‑3’s balance of style, agility, and fuel efficiency, the upcoming CX‑20 promises a refreshed driving experience without sacrificing the brand’s hallmark handling dynamics.
Looking Ahead
As Mazda phases out the CX‑3 and Mazda2, the brand’s commitment to innovation remains evident. The Vision X‑Compact and CX‑20 concepts signal a shift toward smarter, more connected vehicles that cater to urban environments while keeping Mazda’s driving‑pleasure DNA intact.
Consumers in Vietnam and across the globe can anticipate a smooth transition, provided the new models enter production as scheduled. Keep an eye on Mazda’s official announcements for exact launch dates and pricing details.