What are the prices for the Mazda CX-8?

Mazda CX-8 G25 Sport FWD: $42,060 (+$1870)

Mazda CX-8 G25 Touring FWD: $48,960 (+$1870)

Mazda CX-8 D35 Sport AWD: $49,060 (+$1870)

Mazda CX-8 D35 Touring Active AWD: $56,910 (NEW)

Mazda CX-8 GT SP G25 FWD: $58,560 (NEW)

Mazda CX-8 Asaki G25 FWD: $61,810 (+$1400)

Mazda CX-8 GT SP D35 AWD: $65,560 (NEW)

Mazda CX-8 Asaki D35 AWD: $68,810 (+$1400)

Mazda CX-8 Asaki LE D35 AWD: $71,410 (+$1400)

Prices exclude on-road costs

What’s under the bonnet? 

The Mazda CX-8 comes with either a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 140kW of power and 252Nm of torque or a 2.2-litre four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine that delivers the same power but a significantly higher torque of 450Nm. Both engines are coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The front-wheel drive 2023 Mazda CX-8 G25 consumes 8.1L/100km on the ADR combined cycle, while all-wheel drive models offer better fuel economy rated at 6.0L/100km.

How does the Mazda CX-8 drive? 

On the tarmac, the Mazda CX-8 exudes a profound equilibrium, amalgamating comfort and poise in an attractive package. Despite its size, I found it a joy to drive.

The modified suspension springs and dampers not only smooth out the journey, preventing even the harshest Australian road conditions from disrupting cabin tranquility, but they also significantly reduce overall road noise.

The ride has an almost athletic quality to it – it recovers swiftly from robust impacts, and the car's additional weight can lead to a sharper descent into potholes and hard edges. However, comfort is never compromised.

The handling of the CX-8 exhibits an eagerness I truly relished, with the steering light yet precise. Navigating sharp bends and narrow streets was a breeze, and I felt assured executing swift, last-ditch maneuvers.

The six-speed automatic is generally smooth, marred only by occasional grumbling and hesitance from the idle-stop system at low speeds. Otherwise, it accelerates swiftly from a standstill and delivers power gradually and consistently.

The two main areas of concern regarding the Mazda CX-8's on-road performance relate to power and visibility.

While the G25 engine is not poor, it does seem to strain. It produces significant noise, especially under acceleration, which you'll find yourself doing frequently – our test drive across hilly terrain meant the six-speed automatic had to work overtime to sustain momentum.

The D35 engine, offering markedly more torque, eases the task of propelling this large, heavy SUV. Its power build-up feels more laid back, and it operates more quietly too.

The steering possesses the characteristic Mazda touch – slightly more responsive and occasionally a bit jittery, especially when bumps are encountered mid-corner. In such instances, you may feel the steering wheel shudder in your hands.

Despite this, the CX-8 is not the most dynamic large SUV, with a driving demeanor heavily skewed towards comfort.

One potential upgrade to the range could be the inclusion of Mazda's superior turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine seen in the CX-9, but Mazda has confirmed they are not contemplating such a variant for future introduction.

What is the Mazda CX-8 like on the inside? 

In the pursuit of modernity, the CX-8's cockpit receives a refreshing facelift with a new 10.3-inch centerpiece screen and a 7.0-inch digital panel for the driver.

The dashboard's wide-screen design effectively accommodates a wealth of information without compromising the aesthetics or obscuring the driver's view.

In a move to standardize smartphone integration, all new CX-8s now offer wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, a feature that is also retrofittable in certain older models.

Our GT SP review model showcases the latest in wireless charging, eliminating the clutter of cords and adding to the cabin's modern appeal. However, models below the Touring Active still maintain a contemporary vibe with front-row USB-C ports.

High-end Asaki models boast an appealing interior ambiance with the plush appeal of quilted nappa leather seats. The interior of our GT SP comes adorned with Burgundy leather as standard, beautifully contrasting with the optional Rhodium White exterior paint and the variant-exclusive black touches.

The front seating in the 2023 model receives a revamp for enhanced support according to Mazda, with bolstering and padding modifications. Though the seats offer firm comfort, they are best suited for slender frames.

Rear seat occupants are catered for with directional air-vents, a third climate control zone with independent temperature adjustment, and optional six-seat Azami LE layout with captain chairs and larger console bin.

Child-seat fitment options are plentiful with ISOFIX and top-tethers on window seats, an additional top-tether point for the middle seat, and extra top-tether points in the third-row depending on the model.

With a 60:40 split, the second-row seats slide to create more space in the back row. The adjustments allowed for my 182cm/6'0" frame to fit in the last row, although, as anticipated, I had limited headroom. Despite this, the space is surprisingly ample and includes conveniently placed cup holders.

The third-row seats come equipped with user-friendly fold-down levers, a simpler and more sophisticated solution compared to pull-tab options in other seven-seaters. With the third row folded, the cargo space expands to 775 litres.

The power tailgate of the CX-8 reveals a spacious boot that accommodates 775L in five-seat mode or 209L in seven-seat mode. While this is quite generous, it is slightly overshadowed by competitors like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-9.

Even when fully occupied, the seven-seat configuration comfortably held my portable pram and several bags. The additional underfloor storage compartment was handy for securing my laptop.

Raising the third row is effortless with plastic latches located on the seat backs and the headrests cleverly flip up. The underfloor storage also houses a temporary spare wheel.

Is the Mazda CX-8 safe? 

Based on the 2018 ANCAP safety testing, the Mazda CX-8 has a five-star safety rating. The model includes safety features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, driver attention warning, intelligent speed limit assist, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, traffic sign recognition, tyre pressure monitoring, and airbags. Some higher trims include extra features like front parking sensors, Cruising and Traffic Support, and a surround-view camera.

How much does the Mazda CX-8 cost to run? 

Mazda provides a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty on the CX-8. Servicing for front-wheel drive petrol models is required every 12 months or 15,000 kilometres, whichever occurs first, with capped prices for the first five services. All-wheel drive diesel models require more frequent servicing every 12 months or 10,000 kilometres, with similar capped prices for the first five services.

The first five capped services for CX-8 petrol models:

12 months or 15,000km: $341

24 months or 30,000km: $542

36 months or 45,000km: $402

48 months or 60,000km: $542

60 months or 75,000km: $341

The first five capped services for CX-8 diesel models:

12 months or 10,000km: $368

24 months or 20,000km: $569

36 months or 30,000km: $566

48 months or 40,000km: $569

60 months or 50,000km: $368

Yeecar’s Take on the Mazda CX-8

The revamped Mazda CX-8 showcases admirable merits.

The joy of driving it is undeniable, and Mazda's dedication to refinement is evident across multiple facets, from the way it manages its size to the tranquility it offers in the cabin at both city and highway speeds.

While the top-tier Asaki and LE variants deserve applause for their extensive features and premium allure, their corresponding price tags can be a bit hard to rationalize, especially for the LE.

Conversely, the mid-range models present an ideal combination of standard features, though the inclusion of a 360-degree camera could be a significant improvement. The implementation is sleek, with a premium touch that surpasses its price range.

Overlooking the minor issue with the rotary dial, the overall functionality and ergonomics are commendable, and the aesthetics are impressive. This update brings in some much-needed enhancements to the infotainment system.

The spacious boot and the surprisingly adult-friendly third row add to its allure. The adaptability offered by the seating configuration in the rear, along with the convenient child-seat anchor points, is perfect for expanding families.

With no turbo petrol option, the superior diesel engine is the obvious choice. Paired with the cost-effective GT SP grade, the CX-8 rightfully earns its place in the Mazda family. It's far from being a perplexing niche squeezed between the CX-5 and the impending CX-60 or CX-80.