Further Evolved 2.2-Liter Diesel Engine

The CX-8 is positioned as Mazda's top-tier SUV in the Japanese market. It is powered by an advanced version of the SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel engine. Employing rapid multi-stage combustion, it achieves excellent quietness, combustion efficiency, and high environmental performance by finely atomizing and injecting a small amount of fuel under high pressure in multiple stages. New technologies such as stepped egg-shaped pistons, ultra-high-response multi-hole piezo injectors, and a variable geometry turbocharger have increased maximum output from the previous 175ps to 190ps and maximum torque from 420Nm to 450Nm. As a result, despite an increase in capacity and weight compared to theCX-5, sufficient driving performance and Mazda's signature driving pleasure are ensured.

Furthermore, the CX-8's fuel tank capacity is 72 liters (74 liters for 4WD). Considering the WLTC mode fuel economy of 15.8 km/L, which is considered more realistic than the JC08 mode, it is possible to travel up to 1,137 km on a single full tank.

Achieving High Levels of Quietness

The CX-8 measures 4,900mm in length, 1,840mm in width, and 1,730mm in height. These dimensions were determined with Japanese road conditions and parking situations in mind. From this foundation, the interior space was meticulously designed, prioritizing an ideal driving posture for the first row, comfort for large passengers in the second row, and comfortable seating for individuals up to 170cm tall in the third row.

The second-row seats are available as either left-and-right split captain's seats (two types, for 6-passenger seating) or a bench seat (for 7-passenger seating), depending on the trim level.

The cargo space offers 239 liters when all three rows are in use, enough for one stroller and two golf bags. Folding down the third-row seats expands the space to 572 liters.

In terms of quietness (NVH performance), sound-absorbing materials are placed in the ceiling and near the D-pillars, achieving a level of quietness that allows all occupants to converse comfortably at normal volumes. Hideki Matsuoka, Chief Engineer at Mazda's Product Planning Division, emphasized the quietness, stating, "The CX-8 offers a driving experience that makes you want to keep driving, along with a refined ride and quietness that provide a comfortable journey for all occupants. Its quietness allows for communication at normal voice levels from the first to the third row. It provides a wonderful space to enjoy precious time with family and friends, or to listen to your favorite music."

Enhanced Safety Features to Rejuvenate Tired Bodies

In terms of safety, the i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety technologies are standard equipment. In the active safety domain, the latest 360-degree view monitor is available. By displaying images from the four cameras located at the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle, switched according to various driving situations on the center display, drivers can visually confirm blind spots and distances to obstacles, supporting evasive maneuvers.

In the passive safety domain, the lightweight yet highly rigid SKYACTIV-BODY incorporates Mazda's first dual-support structure beneath the C-pillar, ensuring rigidity to protect third-row occupants during rear-end collisions. Additionally, an active bonnet is standard equipment. Upon detecting a collision with a pedestrian, the rear end of the bonnet is raised by approximately 100mm, creating a space between the bonnet and the engine to mitigate impact to the pedestrian.

Regarding these safety features, Matsuoka commented, "When you're tired after a day of fun, or driving home late at night, a driver's cognitive judgment may decline. We have equipped these features to support such drivers, allowing them to enjoy driving without stress, so that they arrive home feeling refreshed."

Design Concept: Timeless Edgy

The design concept for the CX-8 is TIMELESS EDGY. Shinichi Isayama, Chief Designer at Mazda's Design Division, explained, "We set this concept to allow customers to continuously feel richness and pleasant stimulation in their daily lives through timeless beauty and sophisticated design."

The exterior design, centered on a sense of length and horizontal lines, combines a robust and rigid form with a mature calmness and an elegant, dignified presence, realizing a new SUV style.

Furthermore, the contrast between the compact cabin and the supporting body creates proportions that suggest driving performance, setting it apart from the boxy image of typical multi-passenger vehicles. The body surface composition and the prominent shoulder line also express SUV-like robustness.

Isayama added, "The most significant point is that we achieved a balance between a spacious and beautiful proportion and a package that allows adults to sit comfortably in the third row."

The interior was designed to "transcend conventional values like mere spaciousness, size, or luxury, creating a space that allows all occupants to feel the joy of driving and ownership within a characteristically Mazda-like, moderately snug environment. The high-grade models feature a center console in the second row, offering a sophisticated ambiance distinct from typical SUVs," the company stated.

Moreover, the CX-8 was designed with a focus on "the use of genuine materials." The interior features genuine materials that gain character with use, such as soft Nappa leather seats and real wood trim, creating a sense of warmth and handcrafted texture.

The CX-8: Igniting a New Market

At the CX-8's unveiling event, Masahiro Moro, Mazda's Representative Director, President, and CEO, explained the rationale behind introducing a three-row crossover SUV: "The domestic market for this segment is not particularly large, with a volume of around 3,000 units per month, including those from overseas manufacturers. However, the minivan market is gradually shifting towards SUVs. To cater to the diversifying needs of these customers, we aim to stimulate demand with our three-row SUV."

Moro also recalled Mazda's pioneering introduction of the "MPV" to the Japanese market in 1990, when a minivan market did not yet exist. "The MPV was the catalyst for the growth of the minivan market in Japan. Therefore, we are challenging ourselves with the CX-8, hoping to stimulate demand for three-row SUVs in the same way."

Matsuoka added, "Values regarding Japanese lifestyles are undergoing significant change, with more people seeking to cherish their personal time alongside time spent with family. Many also pursue their own unique lifestyles, enjoying work and hobbies with close friends. The CX-8 is a new vehicle designed to support and accompany customers who embrace these evolving values, enabling them to live more individualistic and vibrant lives."

In recent years, Mazda has shifted its focus from demographic targets such as age, gender, or family structure to customer values. Matsuoka explained, "Our target customers are those who are not swayed by others, who have their own world, and who want to decide their own path. Among these individuals, the CX-8 is proposed for those who require multi-passenger capacity and three-row seating."

He further commented, "We developed this vehicle with particular consideration for Japanese customers, without being confined by existing categories of multi-passenger vehicles or three-row seating."

As the eighth new-generation product in Japan, the CX-8 "achieves a balance of multi-passenger capacity with the design and driving performance befitting a flagship SUV. This uniquely Mazda three-row vehicle will enrich Mazda's lineup and broaden the choices for customers who wish to continue driving Mazda cars."