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Mazda CX-8 vs Toyota Kluger

What's the difference?

VS
Mazda CX-8
Mazda CX-8

$38,990 - $78,755

2023 price

Toyota Kluger
Toyota Kluger

$51,790 - $83,535

2024 price

Summary

2023 Mazda CX-8
2024 Toyota Kluger
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Diesel Twin Turbo 4, 2.2L

Inline 4, 2.5L
Fuel Type
Diesel

-
Fuel Efficiency
6.0L/100km (combined)

5.6L/100km (combined)
Seating
7

7
Dislikes
  • Misses out on a 360-degree view camera system
  • Expensive compared to similarly specified rivals
  • Low number of airbags for family SUV

  • Grande grade is expensive
  • Exterior design uninspiring
  • Third row airbags don't fully cover occupants
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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2024 Toyota Kluger Summary

So, a big SUV like the Toyota Kluger Grande is on your shopping list, but how well will a hybrid version work for you?

Chances are you're a parent - the Kluger is a family favourite after all. And if you’re a parent take comfort in knowing this review of the Toyota Kluger Grande Hybrid is being written by a fellow parent.

A parent who has been up since 5:00am with a toddler who threw breakfast on the floor, somebody who’s already done the school run with the eight-year old and is on their third cup of coffee. And it’s only 9:00am. 

What does this have to do with cars? Everything - well, it does for family cars, anyway. 

The family car is a vital tool and if it doesn’t work properly, not just mechanically but in a practical and financial way, it’s not going to be much help. A good family car needs to be easy to use as well.

Because you’re also a sleep-deprived parent I’m not going to make you trawl through this entire review to find out if the Toyota Kluger Grande Hybrid is any good.

So, let me tell you now, it’s excellent and outstanding among its rivals like the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Sorento or Nissan Pathfinder. It’s exceptional for its roominess, cabin storage and low ownership costs. 

Does being a hybrid matter or change things? Absolutely. It'll save you money on fuel and make driving smoother. So, in my books you'd be bananas not get the hybrid version.

So, there you have it - buy it. Seriously. There’s a reason why it's so popular among families.

You only have to look at the car park at the pool I take my son to for his swimming lessons.

Last weekend I ended up in a Kluger traffic jam in there. See, I took a photo because I thought it was funny. My son did not. What would be the collective noun for a group Klugers?

Anyway, the reason why you should continue reading is because I think you don’t need to get the top-grade Grande as it’s too pricey. Read on to save some money and find out more…

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Deep dive comparison

2023 Mazda CX-8 2024 Toyota Kluger

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