Externally, the changes are minor and include a subtly revised grille, new chrome detailing, piano key black inserts on the side pillar and around the fog light bezels, cylindrical LED taillights, new 18-inch alloy wheels and a colour dubbed Soul Red Crystal.

The biggest share of the CX-3’s updates are seen inside, namely a redesigned centre console and armrest, new front seats, suede-like inserts on the doors and dashboard, the addition of a rear armrest with cupholders, selection of new material colours and an electronic handbrake with auto-hold.

For North America, Mazda has also tweaked the 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G to produce 110kW/201Nm, which is still down on the 115kW/204Nm produced by the South African model. Base models will feature a six-speed manual gearbox with a six-speed automatic likely to be the model mainstay.

Sales of the CX-3 are to commence in the North American spring.