CX-80 vs. CX-8: A thorough comparison of prices and specifications. Which Mazda SUV is right for you? A detailed explanation of the improvements and appeal.

Mazda’s flagship three-row SUV model has been passed on from the CX-8 to the CX-80 . The CX-80 is scheduled to be released on October 10, 2024 , as the successor to the CX-8 , which will cease production in December 2023. The CX-80 inherits the excellent features of the CX-8 while also evolving further . We’ll share all of its appeal. We’ll thoroughly compare the price, specifications, design, driving performance, and more of the CX-80 and CX-8, revealing the pros and cons of each.

Affordable luxury CX-8 vs. new-generation luxury CX-80

The CX-8 is attractive with a wide range of grades and pricing starting from 2,994,200 yen. From entry-level models like the 25S to luxury models like the Exclusive Mode, there is a model to suit your budget. Meanwhile, the CX-80 is Mazda’s new flagship model, with a more luxurious price range starting from 3,943,500 yen.

Mazda CX-8 2023 model price and grade

Mazda CX-80 2024 model: Japanese price and grade

Prices range from 3,943,500 yen to 7,122,500 yen . The 7-seater model is cheaper, but there is no option for the higher-end model. (Since the model has not yet been released, we apologize if the prices are incorrect.)

Because of the difference in powertrain, it is not possible to judge by starting price, but when comparing the XD (2WD), the CX-8 starts at 3,377,000 yen, while the CX-80 is 3,943,500 yen, a difference of 566,500 yen. When comparing the top-of-the-line XD Exclusive Mode (2WD), the CX-8 starts at 4,657,400 yen, while the CX-80 is 5,214,000 yen, a difference of 566,500 yen. Since both are the same, the pricing is clearly based on the CX-8, but it will be interesting to see what impact this price increase will have on the market!

Body size comparison between “CX-8” and “CX-80”

Compared to the CX-8, the CX-80 is slightly larger, with an overall length of +65mm, an overall width of +45mm, an overall height of -20mm, and a wheelbase of +190mm . Thanks to this, the interior space is more spacious than the CX-8.

When purchasing, you need to consider securing a parking space.

When choosing a mechanical parking lot for an apartment complex or parking area, you need to be careful with car types that are 1,850 mm or wider. This is because the pallet width is the biggest issue. Currently, the most common mechanical parking lots in Japan have tires with an outer width of 1,850 to 1,900 mm or less, and many cars do not fit into this. The pallet here is like the platform on which the car is actually placed in the mechanical parking lot.

Even if your car’s width is within the limit, if the pallet width is too small, you won’t be able to park it. Furthermore, if it’s too close, you may damage your tires or wheels. I’ve seen several friends of mine who have bought new cars that don’t fit on the pallet, and are now unable to use the parking lot they’ve been using, which is a problem.

Be careful, as some places that would have been just barely accessible with the CX-8 may not be accessible if you switch to the CX-80.

Comparing the exterior design of the CX-8 (refined beauty) vs. the CX-80 (presence)

The CX-8 features a sleek and sophisticated design that embodies Mazda’s design theme, “KODO – Soul of Motion.” Meanwhile, the CX-80 further evolves the CX-8’s design, emanating a more imposing presence. The front grille is larger than the CX-8’s, emphasizing its strength.

The CX-80 is the brand’s second model based on the same large FR platform as the CX-60, and the overall design has many similarities. It is no exaggeration to say that many of the designs, such as the shape of the front grille and headlights, are almost identical to the CX-60.

The CX-8 ‘s design is like an extension of the CX-5, so it’s a matter of personal preference, but I think you can tell at a glance that the CX-80 is new.

Evolution from the CX-8: More spacious and more luxurious

The CX-80 is longer and wider than the CX-8 , giving it a more imposing presence. The interior space is also larger, with improved third-row seating and luggage capacity in particular, ensuring comfortable travel even with multiple passengers.

The CX-80 also features a newly developed platform and suspension that effectively absorbs vibrations from the road, providing an even more luxurious ride than the CX-8.

Specifications: Multi-passenger CX-8 vs. Spacious CX-80

The CX-8 has three rows of seats and can accommodate up to seven people. The second row seats are available in either captain’s chairs or bench seats, allowing you to choose the best fit for your family and needs. The CX -80 also offers the same. The second row seats are available in either captain’s chairs or bench seats , but the CX-80 is longer and wider than the CX-8 , resulting in a more spacious interior. The CX-80 is particularly superior in terms of third-row seating and cargo capacity.

Comparing the interior design of the CX-80 and CX-8

The interior design of the CX -80 is also based on the CX-60, and features the latest 12.3-inch full LCD (TFT color) digital meter, a 12.3-inch infotainment system , and “MUSUBU” stitching around the instrument panel .

This is the interior design of the CX-8. When comparing them like this, the CX-8 inevitably feels older due to differences in the design and size of the meter area and information display.

Comparing the 3-row seats of the “CX-80” and “CX-8”

Both the CX-80 and CX-8 offer three rows of seating, and both offer three second-row options: bench seat, captain’s chairs, and captain’s chair center console. That’s impressive.

CX-80: A rare three-row seat SUV in Japan

The CX-80 features three rows of seats, making it ideal for traveling with large families or groups. All seats are made of high-quality materials, so you can expect a satisfying riding experience no matter where you sit. However, the CX-90 is available overseas, and the smaller CX-80 may have a slightly cramped third row, so you may need to be a little careful. If you don’t want to drive a minivan but still want to carry lots of family and friends, the CX-80 is recommended.

The CX-80 offers two flat-folding third-row seats and three different configurations for the second row, including captain’s chairs with a choice of center console or access pass-through, and two separate, high-comfort seats with seat ventilation.

You can also choose a six-seater with no center console and an aisle to the third row.

The seven-seater version features a three-seat bench seat in the second row, which can be easily folded down with the push of a button. With the second and third rows fully folded, trunk volume is 1,971 litres.

Personally, I recommend the 6-seater captain seats without a center console, which are easy to use. What I personally like about the second-row seats is that they also have seat ventilation. Incidentally, the CX-8 also has this feature in its higher-grade models.

The unique appeal of the CX-80: A new era of luxury SUV

As Mazda’s new flagship model, the CX-80 has evolved in every aspect, including design, driving performance and comfort.

• Design: Mazda’s design theme, KODO – Soul of Motion, has been further refined to create a dynamic and elegant form.
• Driving performance: The combination of a newly developed inline 6-cylinder engine and FR platform delivers powerful yet smooth driving.
• Comfort: Utilizing high-quality materials and the latest technology, the car provides a relaxing space for all passengers.

CX-80 is recommended for these people!

A word from the editorial department

The CX-8 and CX-80 are both attractive Mazda SUVs, but by understanding and comparing their respective features, you can find the one that best suits your lifestyle. If you prioritize passenger capacity and cost performance, we recommend the CX-8, while if you want more spaciousness and a high-quality ride, we recommend the CX-80.

The CX-80 is Mazda’s new flagship SUV, inheriting the excellent features of the CX-8 while also achieving further evolution. We can’t wait for its release on October 10th.

We hope this article will help you choose your Mazda SUV.

CX-80

https://www.mazda.co.jp/cars/cx-80