Mazda announces CX-8 three-row crossover

Mazda’s fast expanding SUV range now sees the addition of yet another model, the CX-8 seven-seat crossover. Larger than the CX-5 but smaller than the CX-9, the CX-8 may sound like a good option for those who need a third row seat but find the CX-9 a little too large.

Before you rejoice the Mazda CX-8 is unfortunately a Japanese domestic market-only model, created to better fit Japanese roads and tight urban spaces. According to Mazda, the CX-8 will be the flagship of its SUV line-up in Japan, as the CX-9 (pictured blow) isn’t sold there.

Measuring 4,900 mm long, 1,840 mm wide and 1,730 mm high, the CX-8 is about as wide as a CX-5. Its wheelbase of 2,930 mm is identical to that of the CX-9 but its width is about 120mm narrower and its length is 162mm shorter. It offers seating for six or seven passengers, depending on the configuration.

“It has the looks, performance, and high-end feel customers expect from a Mazda, and even adults can sit comfortably in the third row,” said Mazda president and CEO Masamichi Kogai, in a release. “Mazda aims to create a strong emotional connection with customers, and we will achieve this by continually advancing our lineup to offer all customers our unique combination of driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance.”

Mazda has only released an interior photo of the new crossover showing its three-row seat arrangement. Going by the brand’s current SUV offering, it’s safe to say that the CX-8 will adopt the company’s highly acclaimed “Kodo” design language. Powering the CX-8 will be the company’s familiar SKYACTIV-D 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.