Mazda CX-8 tweaked and updated for 2019

Less than a year on from its Australian launch in July 2018, Mazda CX-8 has grown its equipment list and updated styling elements to strengthen its appeal.

New to the standard equipment list is Mazda’s Skyactiv-Dynamics technology, G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus), an advanced version of GVC that adds direct yaw moment control for improved stability and handling.

The upgrade also makes Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and smartphone mirroring technologies, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, standard fare.

Both Sport and Asaki grades incorporate a revised climate control panel, which positions switches in horizontal lines to create a sharp, minimalist aesthetic.

On the outside, subtle changes give a more refined appearance to the mid-size SUV. An LED license plate lamp adds a crisp finishing touch to the bumper, complemented by fresh wheel colours. Sport’s 17-inch alloys now have a Grey Metallic finish and Asaki’s 19-inch alloys are now Brilliant Dark.

The range-topping Asaki adds more features, including front seat ventilation function and the 7-inch LCD information meter display sourced from the CX-9, which makes a wider variety of information and functions available to the driver.

Also adopted from the CX-9, the updated Asaki CX-8 boasts frameless rear view mirror, a more streamlined overhead console design, plus LED ambient lighting that adds to the elegant cabin’s premium feel.

Unchanged from before, the CX-8 is exclusively powered by a 140kW / 450Nm 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D twin-turbo diesel engine.

Offered in two model grades, three variants of the CX-8 Diesel are available, starting with Sport FWD, Sport AWD and the range topping Asaki AWD.

The improved-value Mazda CX-8 starts at $43,410 for the entry model Sport FWD, while the range-topping Asaki AWD retails for $62,590.

2019 Mazda CX-8 pricing (excluding on-roads)

Grade

 Engine

 Drive

 Price

Sport

 2.2L DE

 FWD

 $43,410

Sport

 2.2L DE

 AWD

 $47,410

Asaki

 2.2L DE

 AWD

 $62,590

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