Mazda CX-9 vs Mazda CX-8: Which 7-seater SUV should you choose?

Mazda offers a number of amazing cars in the local market including the two seven-seater SUVs - CX-9 and CX-8. Both feature Mazda Kodo design language with an alluring stance, a plethora of creature comforts, and a peppy engine under the hood. But the point which we are here to discuss is which Mazda 7-seater SUV should you choose, CX-9 or CX-8. Before diving into the differences between the two, let’s see their quick overviews.

In the Malaysian market, the Mazda CX-9 received an update just last year. It is available in two trims- 2WD and 4WD, both powered by a SkyActiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine. The 2WD is priced at RM 310,000, and the 4WD retails for RM 326,000. Mazda CX-8, on the other hand, made its Malaysian debut in CKD form in 2019. It comes in four variants - 2.5G 2WD Mid, 2.5G 2WD Mid Plus, 2.5G 2WD High, and 2.2D 4WD High, powered by two different engine options. The CX-8 price starts at RM 172,000 and goes all the way up to RM 205,000.

How these two models stack up against each other, let’s have a look.

Mazda CX-8 vs Mazda CX-9: Dimensions and design

Specifications	Mazda CX-9	Mazda CX-8
Length	5075 mm	4900 mm
Width	1969 mm	1840 mm
Height	1747 mm	1730 mm
Wheelbase	2930 mm	2930 mm

The above table reveals that the two SUVs have different dimensions, the CX-9 is 175 mm longer, 129 mm wider, and 17 mm taller than the CX-8. This means the CX-9 has more passenger and cargo space. However, it does not mean that the latter has not ample room in the third row as it can also conveniently accommodate adults back there.

Moving to the design comparison, both SUVs are based on the brand’s KODO Soul of Motion language that appeals to the target audience in different ways. With a more powerful presence on the road, the larger CX-9 attracts corporate executives while the slightly smaller CX-8 targets the athletic family man or individual looking for a stylish and luxurious four-wheel companion.

The standard exterior kit of the two SUVs is almost the same, including LED headlights and tail lights, powered tailgate, roof rails, shark-fin antenna, rain-sensing wipers, and rear spoiler. However, the bigger one runs on 20-inch alloy wheels, with wheel arches in a dark glossy finish as compared to the 19-inch alloys available on the smaller.

Mazda CX-8 vs Mazda CX-9: Interior

When it comes to the cabin, the two Mazda SUVs have inviting and peaceful spaces loaded with several luxuries. These include a 4.6-inch Colour TFT LCD Multi Info Display, head-up display, leather-wrapped steering wheel with multiple controls, engine start/stop button, Mazda Connect infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, three-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, electronic parking brake with auto-hold, leather seat upholstery, Bose audio system and, lots of storage points.

However, some of the differences include different screen sizes for the infotainment unit, the CX-8 has a 7-inch display while the CX-9 dashboard carries a bigger 9-inch screen. The former’s audio system has six speakers, while the latter comes with 12 speakers. Also, the CX-9 has a power sunroof and seat ventilation and heating function for both driver and front passenger. For seat trim, Mazda offers Deep Red Nappa leather with the CX-8 and black leather with the CX-9.

Mazda CX-8 vs Mazda CX-9: Engine specifications

Powering the Mazda CX-9 is a SkyActiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine tuned to produce a maximum power output of 228 PS and a peak torque of 420 Nm. It is coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission with two different driving configurations - 2WD and AWD.

At the same time, the Mazda CX-8 is available in two engine options, the first being a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G mill churning out 192 hp and 258 Nm. Another is a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel unit delivering 188 hp and 450 Nm. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. The comparison reveals that the CX-9 outperforms the CX-8 on the mechanical front.

Mazda CX-8 vs Mazda CX-9: Safety

In terms of safety, the two SUVs come with identical safety packs. These consist of six airbags, ABS with EBD, dynamic stability control, traction control, emergency stop signal, hill launch assist, and ISOFIX child mounts. Included in the advanced safety technologies are Adaptive Front Lighting System, Adaptive LED headlights, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Driver Attention Alert, Smart City Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning System, and Lane Keep Assist System.

The only difference lies in the Smart City Brake Support system, the CX-9 comes with front and rear support for vehicles as well as pedestrians, while the CX-8 gets pedestrian support only.

Verdict

Although the Mazda CX-8 is a spacious, powerful, safe, and luxurious SUV, the CX-9 is one step ahead with more advanced bits, which of course comes at a cost. So, ultimately the choice depends on your preferences and needs.

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