Mazda gave us another SUV this week – the seven-seat CX-8 comes only in 2.2-litre twin-turbo diesel with six-speed automatic – the front-drive CX-8 Sport starts at $42,490, in all-wheel-drive $46,490 and in high-grade all-wheel drive Asaki $61,490.
Buyers of city-skewed SUV’s generally favour petrol engines over diesel due mainly to the grubby nature of most diesel pumps at service stations –point women in particular tell me on a regular basis – get diesel on your hands and it’s hard to wash off. Mazda have sourced the CX-8 from the Japanese market and its only available in diesel as distinct from the larger CX-9 which is petrol powered. The CX-8 a roomy seven-seater with the same wheelbase as the CX-9 but with less front and rear overhang and the same width as the smaller CX-5 – highly equipped its very nicely built with quality finishes that distinguish Mazda in most of its models. The all-wheel-drive CX-8 Sport at $46,490 the model to own. However, for my money I’d rather have the CX-9 – a little larger yes but with petrol power and a really nice driver. But if diesel power is your preference the CX-8 offers nice torque – 450Nm of it means its feels strong at low revs, also extremely well sound proofed and with very comfortable seats. It has good dynamics – I covered 300km on mostly country road in Queensland this week and ride, handling and steering feel was first rate. 10,000km service intervals or every 12 months with 3year/unlimited kilometre warranty. I’m David Berthon

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