Mazda CX-8 vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-8

$24,880 - $47,900

2023 price

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Cupra Formentor

$49,990 - $94,990

2026 price

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Summary

2023 Mazda CX-8

2026 Cupra Formentor

By Emily Agar

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Diesel Twin Turbo 4, 2.2L

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Fuel Type

Diesel

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

6.0L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

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

Well-equipped
Massive range boost for PHEV
Fun and engaging to drive

Dislikes

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

Small boot in PHEV
Formentor S runs out of puff
Lots of tyre roar

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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2026 Cupra Formentor Summary

We’ve waited more than two years and it’s finally here.

Cupra has introduced the updated version of its most popular car in Australia, the Formentor.

A spicy small SUV rival to the likes of the Mini Countryman, BMW X2 and Audi Q3, among others, this design-led small SUV is now offered in more flavours than ever before.

It’s our first time testing out this updated Formentor on local soil, so read on to see how it stacks up.

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Deep dive comparison

2023 Mazda CX-8 2026 Cupra Formentor

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

It’s clear that Cupra has listened to feedback as this updated Formentor addresses many key criticisms of the pre-update car. Overall it makes it easier to live with and to recommend than before.

Although the VZe's updated PHEV powertrain offers double the amount of electric range, the V forms as a sweet spot of the line-up as it offers all the power and equipment you'd ever need. It's hard to look past the top-spec VZx though as power is a drug.

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

Mazda CX-8 vs Cupra Formentor What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-8 vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?