Mazda CX-8 vs Audi Q7
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-8

$24,880 - $47,900

2023 price

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Audi Q7

$75,880 - $129,990

2025 price

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Summary

2023 Mazda CX-8

2025 Audi Q7

By Emily Agar

By Chris Thompson

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Diesel Twin Turbo 4, 2.2L

Turbo V6, 3.0L

Fuel Type

Diesel

Diesel/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

6.0L/100km (combined)

7.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Practical family features
Luxe factors throughout
Easy-as-pie to drive

Extremely comfortable
Sensible tech and ergonomics
Design still looks current

Dislikes

Misses out on a 360-degree view camera system
Expensive compared to similarly specified rivals
Low number of airbags for family SUV

Thirst for fuel
Lack of front row storage
Occasional drivetrain hesitation

2023 Mazda CX-8 Summary

Mazda has a tendency to have a lot of similar looking horses in the stable; blink and you'll miss the (very) subtle differences between the CX-8 and the CX-9 but if you're not super keen on the bulk of the CX-9 and you've outgrown the space of the CX-5... this one's for you.

Especially, if you've been considering its competition - the Hyundai Santa Fe Elite CRDi AWD and Toyota Kluger GXL AWD. Both of which have become known for their features and space.

So, how does it compare? The CX-8 GT SP diesel all-wheel drive seats seven, has a decent boot space (albeit, when the third row isn't in use) and handles like a dream.

Perfect combination? Maybe. I've been driving it for the last week with my family to find out for you.

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2025 Audi Q7 Summary

The updated Audi Q7 is a bit of a game of ‘spot the difference’ - but even though it’s far from a new generation, the update is more than just some shiny new bits.

While the brand’s first SUV is still in its second generation, a bit of modernised design and some tech tweaks are aimed at keeping it in line with rivals, even as it nears a decade on sale.

As well as the new features, there’s also a new variant bound for Aussie showrooms. So, is it still up to the task?

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Deep dive comparison

2023 Mazda CX-8 2025 Audi Q7

Verdict

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.

Verdict

Overall, changes to the Q7 aren’t quite revolutionary, but that’s okay because it was already a fantastic large SUV.

The fact Audi has kept the price around the same mark and introduced a cheaper entry-grade should be welcome news for prospective buyers.

But even the existing variants are capable and impressive family haulers… and now they’re just that little bit better.

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

Mazda CX-8 vs Audi Q7 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-8 vs Audi Q7
What's the difference?