Mazda CX-8

The CX-8 SUV sits between the CX5 and CX9 models in the company’s SUV range. It is available with a single fuel option (diesel) in automatic version, giving a miss to the manual unit.  The Mazda CX-8 range consists of just two variants, the entry-level Sport and range-topping Asaki. Both models are powered by the 2.2-litre, in-line, 4-cylinder diesel unit, conjunct to an automatic gearbox with front and all-wheel drive options. Positioned a rung below CX-9, the seven-seater SUV sits on the same platform as its elder sibling. However, it is 175mm shorter than CX-9 and around 350mm longer than smaller sibling CX-5. The CX-8 and CX-5 are built on the same underpinnings, both SUVs have the same width, which makes them narrower (129 mm) than the larger CX-9. 

Talking of the precise dimensions, the SUV measures 4,900 mm long, 1,840 mm wide and 1,720 mm high. It has a high ground clearance of 200 mm, while overhangs in front gauges 950mm, while the rear overhang is slightly longer at 1,020mm. The stylishly designed SUV carries some prominent elements such as a low slung bonnet with sharp lines flowing across its length that inject a premium touch to it. Also, the segmented LED headlamps meet with Mazda’s quintessential V-shaped grille featuring multiple slats and a bold chrome surround. 

A prominent body cladding, side skirts and LED daytime running lights complete the front styling. The side panels sporting chrome-lined window frame, body-colored door handles, side mirrors with integrated indicators, chunky alloys, pronounced arches, sharp lines, and thick cladding define the true premium SUV character. Mazda designers have been successful in keeping the rear styling equally modish. The short windscreen gets an integrated spoiler atop, while the wraparound LED tail-lamps are joined through a thin chrome strip. Under skid plates and meaty body cladding go well with the overall look, though the dual exhausts seem to be too small for an SUV of this size. 

The large cabin of this seven-seat SUV is built on a 2,930mm long wheelbase that translates into a spacious space for the occupants. While the first two rows are comfortable with ample legroom, head-space and shoulder space for adults, the third row is strictly for kids as it is a bit cramped. Storage points such as cup holders are provided on either side of the last row along with other cubby holes and bottle/cup holders in front and middle rows. Power windows, three-zone climate control with rear control and vents, rearview mirror with auto-dimming are standard. The talking point inside is the 7-inch coloured touchscreen with Aux-in, six-speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, it features steering mounted controls, internet radio integration, and several other advanced bits. Under the hood, it comes with a 2.2-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder oil burner with 140kW of maximum power and 450Nm torque, paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox. As for drivetrain, the base trim comes with a FWD option and the top-spec variant features an AWD system. Braking power is derived from ventilated disc units at both ends and it is fitted with MacPherson strut suspension set-up at front, while rear end gets a multi-link unit. There are a plethora of safety features on-board, some of which include a 360 view monitor, multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, blind-spot monitoring, forward obstruction warning, dynamic stability control, hill launch assist, reverse camera, roll stability controls and a bunch of others. Overall, this SUV offers a good mix of looks, comfort, and performance.