Mazda CX-5 vs Mazda CX-8

What's the difference?

In many important and mostly pleasing ways, the third-generation CX-5 takes a confident step forward.

Bigger in the places that matter, smoother yet just as fun to drive and arguably better looking, it remains a high-quality, affordable and safe mid-sized SUV. The second-from-bottom Evolve AWD seems to be the value sweet spot.

However, the switch to a largely buttonless touchscreen interface is disappointing, as are higher entry prices, fewer model grades and no drops in fuel consumption.

Ultimately, though, the latest CX-5 reveals only half the picture, with the next and increasingly more relevant piece, the long-awaited hybrid, still up to 18 months away.

Maybe that’s the innovation that Mazda’s golden goose deserves most.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

So, what did my family think about the Mazda CX-8 GT SP diesel all-wheel drive? I love how it performs on the road - it's super easy to drive and you don't notice how large it is in a car park.

There are some great family-friendly features scattered throughout and I like how practical this is too with the extra seats and top-tether points. The multimedia system isn’t my favourite and I would have preferred to have seen a few extra airbags and a 360-degree view camera, but overall, it’s a good family car and gets an 8.0/10 from me. 

My son loved the sun blinds and the cool colour of the seats. He also gives it an 8.0/10.