The Mazda CX-8 is a mid-size crossover SUV produced by Mazda since the end of 2017. It is a seven seater version of the CX-5. First unveiled on 14 September 2017, the CX-8 is Mazda's flagship SUV in Japan, as the larger CX-9 is not sold in the country. Outside of Japan, the CX-8 is available in China, Oceania, and Southeast Asia.
Overview
While bearing a striking resemblance to the second generation CX-9, even using the same outer taillights, the CX-8 is 17 cm, shorter in length and 13 cm narrower in width, to conform to Japanese roads and regulations. Within a few weeks after its introduction in Japan, Mazda dealers received over 12,000 orders from consumers. The CX-8 was initially offered only with a 2.2 L SKYACTIV-Ddiesel engine, but a choice of two I4petrol engines was added in 2018: a 2.5 L SKYACTIV-G from the CX-5 and a turbocharged version of the same engine from the CX-9.
Reception
Marton Pettendy of Motoring gave the CX-8 a rating of 84 out of 100, praising the quality and refinement, performance and economy, and diesel power for less than the CX-9, but criticizing the tight rear head/leg room, sub par warranty and service intervals, and the lack of a spare tire and CarPlay. Malcolm Flynn of CarsGuide rated the car 8.1. out of 10, praising its ease of parking compared to the CX-9, more useful boot space than the CX-5, and its comfortable ride, but criticising its lack of a petrol engine and CarPlay, and the steep price jump between the Sport and Asaki trims. Paul Maric of CarAdvice gave the car a rating of 7.9 out of 10, calling it a "compelling proposition for families that need the extra space of an occasional third row and the fuel economy of a diesel engine."
In New Zealand, the CX-8 is only available with a diesel engine. On launch, two trim options were available GSX FWD and Limited AWD. Effective from the model year of 2019, the trim GSX AWD has been sold with a number of technical upgrades and the Limited AWD trim has been discontinued and replaced with the trim Takami. The trim Takami has a number of upgrades over the Limited. ;Updated GSX AWD trim from 2019
LED interior ambient lighting for glovebox, vanity mirrors, cargo, front/rear foot lamps
Thailand
In Thailand, the CX-8 is available with a petrol and diesel engine. On launch, four trims options were available 2.5 S, 2.5 SP, 2.2 XDL FWD and 2.2 XDL Exclusive AWD.
Malaysia
In Malaysia, the CX-8 is available with a pertol and diesel engine options. Four trims were available 2.5G 2WD Mid, 2.5G 2WD Mid Plus, 2.5G 2WD High and 2.2D AWD High
