Mazda is about to introduce a new SUV in its
Japanese lineup in the form of the CX-8, a slightly shorter version of the CX-9
and a few photos of its brochure have found their way online ahead of its
official reveal.
The new Mazda CX-8 will ride on
the same platform with the CX-9 and even share its 2,930 mm wheelbase with its longer sibling.
However the footprint of the upcoming CX-8 will be a
tad smaller, as it will be 115 mm shorter in length, is 129 mm narrower and 17 mm lower than the CX-9 which isn’t available for
sale in Japan. This will make the CX-8 the range-topping SUV of the brand
there.
The cabin will offer up to seven seats, with the
middle row being configurable. The new Mazda CX-8
will be reportedly offered with the company’s 172 hp 2.2-liter diesel unit,
mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
So far the only official information is talking
about the CX-8 being offered in Japan only, but don’t be surprised if Mazda
decides to offer it in other Asian markets and Australia too.
