Malaysia Autoshow 2019: Mazda CX-8 revealed

KUALA LUMPUR: We already knew about the previewing of the Mazda CX-8 at the Malaysia Autoshow 2019, didn’t we? However, seeing the sexy SUV in flesh at the event is an experience to rejoice. Wandering where will the new CX-8 sit in Mazda Malaysia’s lineup? The newest SUV by the Japanese automaker will take a seat between the already available and successful CX-5 and CX-9.

The all-new CX-8 will be offered to the Malaysian masses in four variants. At the event though, the SUV on display is not the exact model that we will receive. Talking about the appearance of the Mazda CX-8, the Japanese SUV features the traditional and glamorous design language that we usually see on Mazda cars. A large grille will horizontal slats houses the Mazda logo in the centre. The same grille is then flanked by a pair of slim headlamps with built-in LED DRLs. There is also a secondary grille cum air-intake below the larger grille.

Looking at the side profile of the CX-8, we see blacked-out B- and C-pillars. A slanting shoulder line that starts from the front quarter panels and meets the rear door handles also looks good.  At the rear, we see wrap-around LED taillamps joined by a chrome strip in between. Dual exhaust outlets and reflectors on either end of the bumper are the other notable elements at the rear.

Moving inside the CX-8, we are greeted with a touchscreen infotainment system equipped with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity. While the top trim of the petrol variants and the diesel model get leather upholstery, other two trims do with fabric. 

Powering the diesel variant of the Mazda CX-8 is a 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D turbodiesel that makes 188 hp of maximum power and a peak torque of 450 Nm. The petrol motor, on the other hand, is a 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G naturally-aspirated unit churning out a top power output of 192 hp and a peak torque of 257 Nm.