Overview

The Mazda CX-8 can be seen as an elongated version of the Mazda CX-5, built on the chassis of the Mazda CX-9. Its wheelbase is the same as the CX-9, at 2930mm, significantly longer than the CX-5's 2700mm. Viewed from the side, the rear door and rear windows are notably stretched. From the front, only Mazda experts can distinguish between the CX-5 and CX-8, with the most significant difference being the front grille. From the rear, differentiation becomes easier, with a through chrome bar and different tail light design. The vehicle has good construction and completion quality, with panel gap deviation not exceeding 0.5mm, and the paint thickness averaging around 80 micrometers.

Interior and Features

The dashboard is similar to that of the CX-5, with its advantages and disadvantages. Material selection and manufacturing quality are high, with touchpoints made largely of leather or soft plastic. The seats are made from Nappa leather, with heating functions. Highlights include the second and third-row seats, with this model offering a 6-seat layout featuring a central console. The second row is spacious, while the third row is somewhat limited. On the downside, the infotainment screen is small and appears outdated, and the resolution of the 360-degree camera is poor. As for boot space, it measures at 209 liters with the third-row seats up, and 775 liters when folded.

Powertrain

Comes with a 2.2-liter Skyactiv D engine, the power output is extremely flexible by diesel standards, effective from about 1500 rpm and can last up to the 5000 rpm redline. Reaching 0-100 km/h takes 9.5 seconds, which is decent for a 1.9-tonne SUV. The vibration is minimal and diesel noise inside the cabin is not noticeable.

Fuel Efficiency

After driving for 95.9 kilometers on a mix of 60% highway and 40% city roads, 8.77 liters of fuel is needed to fill up, resulting in a real-world fuel consumption of 9.1 liters/100 km. The Fuel consumption may increase when the number of passengers increases.

Driving Experience

The driving position is good, with the placement of the steering wheel and pedals being appropriate. Seat and steering wheel height are adjustable. The controls are excellently calibrated, requiring no adjustment period. The CX-8 is more mature than the CX-5, with slower steering ratio and more elegant cornering. The GVC+ system helps control vehicle movement.

Ride Comfort

The Mazda CX-8 weighs 1.9 tons and has a wheelbase of nearly 3 meters, ensuring steady high-speed travel and easy handling of bumps. Slight vibrations can still be felt at low speeds, especially when over sharp edges, bumps, or potholes. The front seats provide adequate side support, the rear seats are comfortable, and the third-row seats are relatively comfortable among SUVs. The cabin is well-insulated with excellent noise reduction, the front windows are made of laminated glass, and the average noise at 110 km/h is 67 decibels, slightly lower than the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace R-Line's 68 decibels.