We Drive Mazda’s CX8

The Australian SUV market has been steadily growing since about 2011. The segment now represents about 45-50% of the passenger and LCV market.

At the forefront of this surge sits Mazda. They have segment leaders in the CX-5 and CX9, both of which we have reviewed a number of times. I went to the launch this week for the new CX-8.

The CX-8 range includes one diesel engine, one transmission and three model grades; Sport FWD, Sport AWD and Asaki AWD

External

There isn’t a lot to say about the CX-8. It carries the same design and look of both the CX-5 and CX-9. The familial resemblance is obvious.

This means that it looks sleek, smart and stylish. It sits lower than other SUV style vehicles, more wagon like. The roof rails accentuate the sleek design

While it shares the same platform and wheelbase of the CX-9 it is slightly shorter overall and much narrower, more towards the CX-5 in width and height.

Internal

The Mazda CX-8 has clean crisp interior that is designed for a family of five or six in comfort.

Front occupants are well catered for, with the Sport fabric seats very comfortable and supportive, especially in the lumbar region. The Asaki seats are obviously leather appointed and with electric adjustment, able to be positioned for superior comfort.

The steering wheel (heated in the Asaki) is small framed and the stalks for the lights and wipers sit above the spokes of the steering wheel for better visibility.

The dash layout is a familiar three ring style, excellent clarity. The heads up display is amongst………..see more at gaycarboys.com including more pictures, specification.