THE CX-3 has been a star performer for Mazda since its launch in late 2015, and in the normal run of motoring play, a mid-life upgrade would be at least a year away. However, with new rivals arriving thick and fast, Hiroshima's compact SUV has been given an early update.

Sport is still a priority for Holden and Bathurst credibility still counts, yet changing consumer trends that signalled the end for Australian-made six and eight-cylinder performance sedans have also accelerated the intent to hit a different kind of track.

There is little reason to change a winning formula if the latest version of the top-selling Suzuki Swift is any indication.