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Mazda CX-8

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Mazda CX-8 Review, For Sale, Interior, Colours & Specs in Australia

Mazda first rolled out its CX-8 to Australia in mid-2018 with a diesel-only line-up, but has since expanded the range to also include petrol options.

Slotting in between the mid-size CX-5 and large CX-9, the CX-8 offers seating for up to seven occupants, as well as the brand’s signature premium interior appointments.

Prices for the CX-8 start at $40,987 for the , and extends up to $78,755 for the , with various options for front- or all-wheel drive, and petrol or diesel sprinkled throughout.

The petrol engine is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder outputting 140kW/252Nm, while the 2.2-litre turbo-diesel unit makes 140kW/450Nm.

Regardless of engine or drivetrain, the CX-8 is fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Mazda CX-8 Models Price and Specs

The price range for the Mazda CX-8 varies based on the trim level you choose. Starting at $37,510 and going to $77,660 for the latest year the model was manufactured. The model range is available in the following body types starting from the engine/transmission specs shown below.

Year Body Type Specs Price from Price to
2023 SUV 2.5L, ULP, 6 SP AUTO $37,510 $77,660
2022 SUV 2.5L, ULP, 6 SP AUTO $36,630 $73,370
2021 SUV 2.5L, ULP, 6 SP AUTO $35,640 $71,830
2020 SUV 2.5L, ULP, 6 SP AUTO $35,090 $70,070
2019 SUV 2.2L, Diesel, 6 SP AUTO $35,420 $55,770
See All Mazda CX-8 Pricing and Specs

Mazda CX-8 Dimensions

The dimensions of the Mazda CX-8 SUV vary according to year of manufacture and spec level.

Year Body Type Height x Width x Length Ground Clearance
2023 SUV 1720x1840x4900 mm 200 mm
2022 SUV 1720x1840x4900 mm 200 mm
2021 SUV 1720x1840x4900 mm 200 mm
2020 SUV 1720x1840x4900 mm 200 mm
2019 SUV 1720x1840x4900 mm 200 mm
The dimensions shown above are for the base model. See All Mazda CX-8 Dimensions

Mazda CX-8 Interior

Wide doors allow easy entry to the front seat, where it’s clear that most switchgear and controls are focused on the driver.

The multi-adjustable steering wheel is precisely centred for unencumbered view of the analogue dials within the chunky rim and standard-fitment digital head-up display above. Finding the ideal position is no hardship.

Most functionality boxes are ticked: superbly crisp dials, excellent ventilation, plenty of storage (including large door pockets for bottles and such) and fine forward vision. The excellent climate control system also features independent middle-row controls. Useful.

However, the multimedia set-up in this Mazda throws up both good and bad points: the former include thoughtful placement of a BMW iDrive-style controller that is meant to mitigate eyes-off-road distraction; users can alternatively use the touchscreen access if the vehicle is stationary; and ­– once familiarised – the menu layout is simple to fathom.

But, a decade old now, the system is certainly ageing, with tardy responses, dated graphics and a low-rent map rendering that seems aftermarket.

Driver front/side vision is also hampered by massive door mirrors, thick A-pillar bases and a narrow rear window, so you’re left to rely on that smallish camera screen as well as the (thankfully effective) RTCA/driver-assist safety systems. And the climate-control buttons are too easily activated/deactivated by the placement of phones in the storage slot below.

The second row is where the CX-8 really starts to diverge from its shorter sibling.

Longer doors which very helpfully open to almost 90 degrees provide ample entry/egress, to a classy environment thanks to the SP’s smart, monochromatic (black) presentation, that lush seat trim and broad attention to detail. These include large centre air vents with full climate control (including heating for outboard occupants), one-touch power windows that go all the way down, a wide centre armrest that matches the front ones, offering cupholders, minor hidden storage and a pair of USB-A ports for charging duties. Grab handles, reading lights, coat hooks, huge door storage and map pockets further underline the Mazda’s family-friendly focus.

Finally, there’s the two rearmost seats, accessed via a simple push of an electric button on either side, followed by a gentle push forward, to reveal a sizeable gap for passengers to clamber past. Thanks, longer doors. It’s not too bad given this is a stretched midsized SUV.

But it’s really best for smaller people, as the knees-up posture can get tiring after a while. The backrest is quite upright and doesn’t recline either. And you won’t find body-facing air vents back there – though in 31ºC summer heat and humidity the air-con could be felt, mercifully.

For a tight third-row environment, it’s not too bad. Thankfully there’s space for big shoes to tuck underneath the second row; big windows flood light in; the folding full-sized headrests mean heads are neither touching nor baking beneath the back window; there’s storage and cupholder access; and exiting is child’s play thanks to a single-lever action that’s clearly defined.

Shown above are interior details for the Mazda CX-8 2022.

Mazda CX-8 Q&As

Check out real-world situations relating to the Mazda CX-8 here, particularly what our experts have to say about them.

  • Which mid-size, diesel SUV should I buy?

    Mazda’s SUV range (CX-5 and CX-8) are popular with their owners and have a good reputation in the trade. Crucially, they’re also available with a turbo-diesel engine, so they fit your criteria on that basis. We’d also suggest you take a good look at the South Korean brands’ offerings (Hyundai and Kia) as these are also highly rated by the trade and those companies have been involved with small-capacity diesel engines for decades, so the technology is pretty well sorted.

    It’s interesting that you’ve had a good run from your Holden Captiva as that is far from the experience of many owners and former owners of this particular vehicle. As the Captiva ages it is very likely to start giving trouble, so the best advice is to trade up to a newer vehicle sooner rather than later.

    Show more
  • Mazda CX-8 DPF issues around town?

    Given the CX-8 only arrived on the market in June 2018, it's a bit too early to say conclusively, but the current CX-5 diesel (which shares its mechanicals with the CX-8) seems to be trouble free under these conditions. 

    Early versions of the first-generation CX-5 diesel had diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues that caused diesel fuel to leak into the engine oil, but this was fixed with hardware and software upgrades under warranty in 2012. 

    Having said that, any car will likely benefit from the odd highway run, but I wouldn't have any concerns about the CX-8 around town. 

    Show more
See All Mazda CX-8 Q&As
Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

Mazda CX-8 Colours

Mazda charges $495 extra for Machine Grey, Polymer Grey and Soul Red Crystal metallic paint, leaving the new Platinum Quartz as well as the Titanium Flash, Deep Crystal Blue, Jet Black and Snowflake White micas as the no-extra-cost colour choices. Remember when the brand used to boast about never charging for premium paint?

  • Soul Red Crystal Metallic
  • Polymetal Grey Metallic
  • Machine Grey Metallic
  • Platinum Quartz Metallic
  • Titanium Flash Mica
  • Deep Crystal Blue Mica
  • Jet Black Mica
  • Snowflake White Pearl Mica
To confirm current colour availability, please check the manufacturer's website. Shown above are the colours for the Mazda CX-8 2022.

Mazda CX-8 Towing Capacity

The Mazda CX-8 has maximum towing capacity of 2000kg for the latest model available.

Year Body Type Braked Capacity from Braked Capacity to
2023 SUV 1800kg 2000kg
2022 SUV 1800kg 2000kg
2021 SUV 1800kg 2000kg
2020 SUV 1800kg 2000kg
2019 SUV 2000kg 2000kg
See All Towing Capacity for Mazda CX-8

Mazda CX-8 Seats

The CX-8 Touring SP’s seats are a combination of vinyl and suede-like cloth, which together up the premium ambience for those who don’t desire leather. Vegans, the SP is for you.

They’re comfortable, breathe well in hot weather and help locate occupants beautifully – though, on the other hand, we can’t imagine they’d be easy to clean after kids and/or pets spills. Electricity takes care of seat rake, reach and lumbar, with a handy memory setting to further help you find the right spot behind the lovely stitched steering wheel.

The middle-row backrests recline a few degrees, while the bases also slide, boosting their firm yet comfortable set-up. As do the lush seat trim.

Note that Mazda has gone to the trouble of putting the smaller portion of the 70:30 sliding middle seat on the kerbside, meaning that only one occupant needs to vacate it for third-row access.

The under-cushion sliding mechanism is easy to operate, and provides more-than-adequate legroom for taller riders. while forward and side vision is also unobstructed, giving the CX-8 a vast, airy feel. Interestingly, while not as wide as the CX-9, the seats are certainly roomy enough for three people, even if their shoulders may be touching.

Finally, there’s the two rearmost seats, accessed via a simple push of an electric button on either side, followed by a gentle push forward, to reveal a sizeable gap for passengers to clamber past.

Your tester is 178cm tall, and there’s sufficient space for two similarly-sized adults to travel back there. Head and shoulder room are fine. But it’s really best for smaller people, as the knees-up posture can get tiring after a while. The backrest is quite upright and doesn’t recline either.

Mazda CX-8 Seats
Shown above are seat details for the Mazda CX-8 2022.

Mazda CX-8 Accessories

The CX-8 Touring SP includes seven seats (of course), sliding and reclining middle-row seats, tri-zone climate control with second-row control, head-up display, auto on/off LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, roof rails, power-folding side mirrors, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, satellite navigation, digital radio, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone support, power windows, remote central locking, push-button start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, electric park brake with auto-hold and 19-inch alloys (with a space-saver spare wheel).

You'll also find front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, driver-fatigue checks and tyre-pressure monitors, as well as LED fog lights, keyless entry, heated and powered front seats, second-row centre armrest with USB charging ports, paddle shifters, an electrically actuated second-row seat slide function for one-touch third-row entry, blacked-out trim inside, synthetic leather/suede seat trim, driver’s seat memory and heated second-row outboard seats.

Mazda CX-8 Accessories
Shown above are the accessory details for the Mazda CX-8 2022.

Mazda CX-8 Boot Space

The CX-8 with all seat backs erect can take 209 litres, extending to 242L with underfloor storage, while folding the third row boosts boot volume to 742/775L. The temporary spare lives underneath the floor.

Mazda CX-8 Boot space Mazda CX-8 Boot space
Shown above are boot space details for the Mazda CX-8 2022.

Mazda CX-8 Fuel Consumption

The Mazda CX-8 is available in a number of variants and body types that are powered by Diesel, — and ULP fuel type(s). It has an estimated fuel consumption starting from 6L/100km for SUV /Diesel for the latest year the model was manufactured.

Year Body Type Fuel Consumption* Engine Fuel Type Transmission
2023 SUV 6L/100km 2.2L Diesel 6 SP AUTO
2023 SUV 8.1L/100km 2.5L 6 SP AUTO
2023 SUV 8.1L/100km 2.5L ULP 6 SP AUTO
2022 SUV 6L/100km 2.2L Diesel 6 SP AUTO
2022 SUV 8.1L/100km 2.5L ULP 6 SP AUTO
2021 SUV 6L/100km 2.2L Diesel 6 SP AUTO
2021 SUV 8.1L/100km 2.5L ULP 6 SP AUTO
2020 SUV 5.7L/100km 2.2L Diesel 6 SP AUTO
2020 SUV 8.1L/100km 2.5L ULP 6 SP AUTO
2019 SUV 5.7L/100km 2.2L Diesel 6 SP AUTO
* Combined fuel consumption See All Mazda CX-8 Pricing and Specs for 2023

Mazda CX-8 Speed

The CX-8 SP Touring can go from 0-100km/h in 10.9 seconds.

Mazda CX-8 Speed
Shown above are speed details for the Mazda CX-8 2022.

Mazda CX-8 Wheel Size

The Mazda CX-8 has a number of different wheel and tyre options. When it comes to tyres, these range from 225x65 R17 1 for SUV in 2023.

Year Body Type Front Tyre Size Front Rim Rear Tyre Size Rear Rim
2023 SUV 225x65 R17 1 225x65 R17 1
2022 SUV 225x65 R17 1 225x65 R17 1
2021 SUV 225x65 R17 1 225x65 R17 1
2020 SUV 225x65 R17 1 17x7 inches 225x65 R17 1 17x7 inches
2019 SUV 225x65 R17 17x7 inches 225x65 R17 17x7 inches
The dimensions shown above are for the base model. See All Mazda CX-8 Wheel Sizes