Mazda CX-8

The Mazda CX-8 is the first mid-to-large seven-seater SUV introduced by Changan Mazda in December 2018. Built on Mazda's "KODO" design philosophy and SKYACTIV technology, it served as the flagship SUV model for the Mazda brand in the Chinese market. The domestic Chinese version was manufactured by Changan Mazda, with prices ranging from RM258,800 to RM330,800.

Model Overview

Positioned as a mid-to-large SUV, the CX-8 adopts a 2+3+2 seven-seater layout, measuring 4,955 mm in length, 1,842 mm in width, and 1,733 mm in height, with a generous 2,930 mm wheelbase. These dimensions surpass direct segment rivals such as the Toyota Highlander and Ford Edge, with an overall length approaching that of the Volkswagen Teramont. The entire lineup is powered by a 2.5L SKYACTIV naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, available in both 2WD and on-demand AWD configurations. It came backed by an official 5-year/150,000 km manufacturer warranty alongside a 5-year/10-session complimentary scheduled maintenance package.

Design Language

The CX-8 carries Mazda's signature "KODO" design philosophy, sporting an exterior that closely mirrors the CX-5 and effectively serving as an upsized iteration of the latter. Up front, it features the brand's iconic shield-shaped grille with horizontal chrome slats, flanked by sharp eagle-eye LED headlamps. Along the sides, sweeping character lines and flared wheel arches create a sleek, dynamic silhouette through the interplay of light and shadow. The rear apron is finished with genuine twin exhaust tailpipes. Six exterior paint options are available, including Machine Grey, Soul Red Crystal, and Snowflake White Pearl. Inside, the CX-8 adopts Mazda's signature cockpit architecture, featuring classic three-pod analogue instrument dials complemented by a multi-info colour display on the right. The door cards, dashboard, and centre console are extensively trimmed in leather, exhibiting refined fit and finish. The range-topping variant is exclusively appointed in Deep Red Nappa leather upholstery.

Powertrain Performance

The CX-8 is powered across the range by a 2.5-litre SKYACTIV-G naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 141 kW (192 PS) at 6,100 rpm and 252 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. Featuring a high 13:1 compression ratio, the engine runs smoothly on standard RON 92 petrol. Thanks to technical enhancements such as 6-hole high-pressure direct injectors, cavity-top pistons, and a 4-2-1 exhaust manifold, fuel efficiency is improved by 15%, alongside a 15% increase in low-to-mid range torque. Power is transferred via a SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, boasting an 82% full-range lock-up clutch for direct and responsive gear changes. In performance testing, it completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in 10.8 seconds.

Chassis and Handling

Underpinned by the lightweight, high-rigidity SKYACTIV-Body platform, the CX-8 features MacPherson struts at the front and an E-type multi-link independent rear suspension, both fitted with anti-roll bars. The underbody is fully lined with fibreglass undertrays to deliver a smooth, fully enclosed aerodynamic floor. Steering is handled by an Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) setup with a direct 14.2:1 steering gear ratio. Mazda's G-Vectoring Control (GVC) system comes standard across the entire range, modulating engine torque in real time to optimise tyre loading for sharper turn-in and superior ride stability. High-spec variants are equipped with the predictive i-ACTIV AWD system, which preemptively channels torque to the rear wheels before front slippage occurs. Multiple drive modes are available, with the 2024 facelift model introducing Mazda's Mi-Drive drive mode selector.

Cabin and Equipment

The CX-8 comes standard in a 2+3+2 seven-seater configuration with Nappa leather upholstery, where the second-row seats offer fore-and-aft sliding and backrest recline adjustments. The third-row seats provide adequate room for adults up to 175 cm tall on shorter journeys. Boot capacity stands at 215 litres with all seats in place, expanding to a cavernous 1,725 litres when the rear rows are folded flat. Comfort and convenience appointments include three-zone automatic climate control, three-stage heated front and outer rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a powered tailgate with height memory and remote operation. Infotainment duties are handled by a 7-inch freestanding touchscreen supporting Bluetooth, voice command, Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, and Baidu CarLife smartphone integration. On the audio front, the flagship variant gains a custom-tuned 10-speaker BOSE premium surround sound system. The facelift introduced in September 2024 focused on NVH enhancements, adding extra sound-deadening insulation in key areas to further suppress road and wind noise.

Safety and Intelligent Driving

In terms of passive safety, the CX-8 comes standard with 6 airbags, comprising dual front, front side, full-length curtain, and driver's knee airbags. The chassis incorporates ultra-high-tensile steel rated up to 1,800 MPa, achieving an 8% weight saving while increasing structural rigidity by 30%. The vehicle achieved a full five-star crash safety rating in the Australasian ANCAP assessment. Active safety systems fitted as standard include ABS with EBD, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Hill Launch Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), front and rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera. Mid-to-high-spec variants add a 360-degree surround-view monitor, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), and a Head-Up Display (HUD). The top variant is equipped with the full i-ACTIVSENSE advanced driver assistance suite, featuring Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Adaptive LED Headlamps (ALH).

Market Performance and Evaluation

As Mazda's flagship SUV in China, the CX-8 was launched with lofty expectations as a direct challenger to the Toyota Highlander. However, sales momentum failed to meet targets, with monthly registrations eventually sliding into double digits. Market analysts pointed to the sole 2.5L naturally aspirated engine offering, a relatively modest central display, and the absence of a panoramic sunroof as key factors limiting its appeal against competitors. In December 2023, production of the CX-8 officially ended in Japan. In the Chinese market, no further iterations followed after the 2019 model year, leaving the vehicle effectively discontinued by 2025. It is succeeded globally by the Mazda CX-80. Despite its commercial struggles, the CX-8 earned critical acclaim for its solid product fundamentals—its spacious cabin, premium interior craftsmanship, agile driving dynamics, and signature Mazda driving engagement made it a refreshingly unique contender in the three-row family SUV market.