Mazda CX-3 set for European premiere in Geneva

The Japanese manufacturer will present its first compact crossover to Europe at the Geneva Motor Show this March. The CX-3 will share the spotlight with the latest-generation Mazda 2 and MX-5.

Premiered in Los Angeles last fall, the Mazda CX-3 is a compact SUV that aims to be equally at home on city streets and off road. Available with four-wheel or front-wheel drive, the model features the brand's Kodo design language and its latest Skyactiv tech. The CX-3 is due to go on sale in Europe and North America this summer.

The fourth-generation Mazda MX-5, seen at the Paris Motor Show, has been updated with specially optimized versions of the Skyactiv-G engines. The roadster is also 200 pounds lighter than the outgoing model and has a lower center of gravity, which should make for improved agility and more enjoyable driving. Due to go on sale in Japan this June, the model is not expected to arrive in Europe and North America before the fall.

The new Mazda 2, sold in some markets as the Demio, has been upgraded with additional features including a head-up display. The hatchback is due to launch in Europe this spring and in North America in mid-2015.

The 2015 editions of the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda 6 will also be on display in the Swiss city. In addition to design changes at the front and inside the cabin, these two models introduce a range of new features including adaptive LED headlights and various active safety systems.

All of the new models will offer the new MZD Connect smartphone connectivity solution.