The Mazda CX-8 2023 Philippines is a 7-seater midsize crossover that slots in between the Mazda CX-5 and CX-9. It is available in two variants, with the price starting at Php 2,330,000 for the Signature and going up to Php 2,490,000 for the top-spec Exclusive. Under the hood, the vehicle is powered by a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated SkyActiv-G gasoline engine capable of generating 187 horsepower and 252 Nm of torque. An 8-speed transmission is used to send power either to the front wheel in the Signature or all wheels (i-ACTIV AWD) in the Exclusive.
In terms of dimensions, the CX-8 spans 4,900 mm in length, 1,840 mm in width, and 1,730 mm in height, with a wheelbase and ground clearance rated at 2,930 mm and 185 mm, respectively. Locally, this Japanese midsize crossover is usually matched to PPVs such as the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Montero Sport. But configurations-wise, the model is comparable to the likes of the Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Ford Explorer.
Launch
The Mazda CX-8 was launched in November 2019 together with the latest CX-30. It is offered in two variants which are the Mazda CX-8 Signature (7-Seater) and the Mazda CX-8 AWD Exclusive (6-Seater) which are priced at P2,290,000 and P2,450,000, respectively.
The Mazda CX-8 is a luxurious seven or six seater (New Zealand model shown)
Mazda CX-8 Exterior
Like all the vehicles in the Mazda Philippines line-up, the Mazda CX-8 follows the Kodo design language. Flowing lines and smooth curves wrap the premium crossover’s exterior as it rides on 19-inch Alloy Wheels. Upfront is a prominent grille accentuated with chrome horizontal lines. It is flanked with glaring, adaptive LED Headlamps.
Mazda CX-8 Interior
The crossover comes in two types of seating configurations that differentiate the Mazda CX-8 AWD variant from the FWD. The top spec all-wheel-drive comes with a 6-seating configuration with the second row composed of two individual seats. Meanwhile, the front-wheel-drive model comes in a 7-seater with a bench on the second row to accommodate three people.
Its cabin embodies the Japanese brand’s aesthetic, with more intricate and refined details. The interiors are wrapped in Deep Red Nappa Leather. The driver’s seat gets a 10-Way Power Adjustability with Memory adding to the drive comfort. On the last row, seats have a 50:50 foldability. The dashboard is decked with a Front Windshield Projected Active-Driving Display.
Technology & Safety Features
The CX-8 Philippines is equipped with the latest evolution of Mazda Connect with Commander Control that can be accessed through an 8-inch infotainment system paired with a 10-Speaker BOSE Sound System. All variants are capable of connectivity through Bluetooth, Smartphone Mirroring, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Its slew of safety and convenience features include a Smart Keyless Entry System, Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Dynamic Stability Control, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, and a 360° View Camera. Unique to Mazda is the I-ACTIVSENSE active safety system which incorporates a Radar Cruise Control for the top-sepc variant and a Standard Cruise Control for base variant, Smart City Brake Support, Driver-Attention Alert, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, and Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear-Cross Traffic Alert.
Platform & Chassis
The 5-door crossover/SUV’s suspension remains as McPherson Strut in front and Multi-Link at the rear. Its stopping power comes from Front Ventilated Discs and Rear Solid Discs through an Electric Parking Brake with Auto Brake Hold.
Mazda CX-8 Engine & Drivetrain
The crossover comes in two drivetrain options with the same engine type. Starting with the top range AWD exclusive 6-seater variant, it is powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.5L In-line 4-Cylinder DOHC gasoline engine paired with a SKYACTIV-Drive 6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sport Mode that sends power to the all wheels. The 2.5L AT 2WD SIGNATURE 7-SEATER, on the other hand, shares the same engine and transmission which sends power exclusively to the front wheels. Both G-Vectoring Control-equipped engines produce 187 hp, 252 Nm of torque.