Mazda has introduced a number of
updates for the CX-8. Sales of the updated, three-row SUV is slated to begin in
Japan from November 28, and there will be nine grades to choose from –
including two Mode Special Edition options – with prices ranging between
2,948,000 and 4,890,600 yen.
The CX-8 is available with two SkyActiv-G petrol
engines and a sole SkyActiv-D turbodiesel, all paired with a SkyActiv-Drive
six-speed automatic transmission. The petrol options include a
naturally-aspirated 2.5 four-cylinder litre unit that serves up 190 PS at 6,000
rpm and 252 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, as well as a turbocharged version with
230 PS at 4,250 rpm and 420 NM at 2,000 rpm.
Meanwhile, the diesel powerplant is a 2.2 litre
four-cylinder that outputs 190 PS at 4,500 rpm and 450 Nm of torque. As part of
the update, customers can now pick all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive with
any engine type, which wasn’t previously possible. Models with AWD will also
come with a new Off-Road Traction Assist system for better performance on rough
roads.
Other improvements can be found on the inside,
starting with an infotainment display that has increased in size from seven to
eight inches. A special coating has also been applied to the roof to dampen the
sound of rain, while a power sunroof and third-row USB ports are now offered
for certain model grades. There’s also a bit more space in the CX-8’s sub-trunk
at the rear – 84 litres (+19 litres) without the Bose sound system, and 56
litres (+8 litres) with it.
On a grade-to-grade basis, there are some equipment
changes, with L Package cars now featuring a one-touch walk-in switch for the
second-row bench seat or Nappa leather captain seats with cupholders and USB
ports. A new XD Proactive S Package grade will also be added on in January
2020, which is available with black leather seats and second-row seat heaters
(also available for 25S Proactive and XD Proactive grades).
As for the special edition Exclusive Mode grades,
which are available with either a turbocharged petrol or diesel engine, there’s
power sliding and reclining functions for second-row seats that are also
ventilated and feature an armrest-equipped console.
