Driving Mazda’s seven-seat CX-8 SUV today that comes only in 2.2-litre twin-turbo diesel form with six-speed automatic – the front-drive CX-8 Sport starts at $43,410, in all-wheel-drive $47,410 and in high-grade all-wheel-drive Asaki $62,590. 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.  However Mazda have sourced the CX-8 from the Japanese market and its only comes in diesel as distinct from the larger CX-9 which is petrol powered. The CX-8 is 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 the quality finishes that distinguish Mazda in most of its models. The all-wheel-drive CX-8 Sport is the model to own all things taken into account however the front drive entry model at $43,410 offers a value packed SUV for a sharp price. For my money, I’d rather have the CX-9 – a little larger yes especially noticeable in front seat comfort and with petrol power 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, is extremely well sound proofed, offers excellent economy and has very comfortable seats. Mazda have just added some features to the CX8 – the upgraded Sky Active Dynamics technology making noticeable handling and stability improvements. Tyre pressure monitoring is now standard fare as is welcome Apple Car Play and Android Auto smartphone technology.

I’m David Berthon

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