Choosing Proton X90 or Mazda CX-8? Analysis from Five Aspects

In the Malaysian SUV market, many buyers will compare Proton X90 and Mazda CX-8 when choosing a car. These two cars are quite close in price and positioning, so today we will make a detailed comparison from multiple aspects to help you save time on research.

Price and Versions

Proton X90's OTR price in Malaysia is RM 106,800 - 122,800. There are 4 versions in total, including 2026 1.5T Prime X (RM 122,800), 2026 1.5T Prime (RM 116,800), 2026 1.5T Lite (RM 106,800), etc.

Mazda CX-8's OTR price in Malaysia is RM 165,360 - 201,360. There are 5 versions in total, including 2025 2.5T 4WD High Plus Petrol (RM 201,360), 2025 2.2L 2WD High Plus Diesel (RM 193,123), 2025 2.5L 2WD High Plus Petrol (RM 186,360), etc.

In terms of price, Proton X90's starting price is indeed RM 58,560 cheaper than Mazda CX-8. If your budget is limited, Proton's entry-level version can already meet daily needs. But also note, the few thousand difference in price might involve compromises in equipment, it depends on your specific needs.

Power and Fuel Consumption

Proton X90 is equipped with 1.5L Turbo, 140 hp. Official fuel consumption is 7.0 L/100km.

Mazda CX-8 is equipped with 2.0L 4-cyl, 170 hp. Official fuel consumption is 8.0 L/100km.

Regarding power, Mazda CX-8's 2.0L 4-cyl has 30 more horsepower than Proton X90's 1.5L Turbo. However, for daily city driving, both cars have sufficient power, you won't feel it's underpowered.

Safety Features

Proton X90's safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP). Active safety systems include ADAS (ACC, AEB, LKA, LDA, BSM, RCTA).

Mazda CX-8's safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP). Active safety systems include Brand ADAS.

Both cars have the same safety rating. For this class, safety features are quite comprehensive. Safety of new cars nowadays is not poor, no need to worry too much about this.

Configuration and Technology

Proton X90 uses FWD drivetrain.

Mazda CX-8 uses FWD drivetrain.

Both cars have the same drivetrain, both are FWD. There won't be a huge difference in daily driving feel.

Conclusion

In general, both Proton X90 and Mazda CX-8 are very good models in the Malaysian market. Which one to choose mainly depends on your personal needs and budget. We suggest doing your research, comparing quotes from several dealerships, and then test driving to make a final decision. Buying a car is a big deal, spending some time researching will never be wrong.