Mazda CX-80 – A New Spacious Seven-seater SUV

The Mazda CX-80 has officially launched in the UK, marking the brand's first foray into the seven-seat SUV segment. Positioned as Mazda’s flagship SUV, the CX-80 combines practicality, premium features, and efficient powertrains to compete with rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq and Hyundai Santa Fe.

A trip to The Motorist in Sherburn In Elmet provided an early opportunity to get behind the wheel on familiar roads.

Design and Build Quality

The CX-80 boasts a sleek yet imposing design, with stretched proportions that distinguish it from its smaller sibling, the CX-60. While its cab-rearward stance and sculpted flanks lend it a sophisticated look, I do feel it is quite colour sensitive. I rather liked the new Melting Copper hue of my test car, but both Soul and Artisan Reds appeal.

Inside, Mazda has focused on premium materials and ergonomics, offering vinyl leather trims, metal accents, and a clean dashboard layout with a 12.3-inch infotainment display operated via a rotary controller. The interior exudes quality but falls short of cutting-edge technology seen in competitors.

Space and Practicality

Thanks to its extended wheelbase (225mm longer than the CX-60), the CX-80 offers ample space for families. The second row provides generous legroom and headroom, while the third row is functional for children or short trips.

Buyers can choose between six- or seven-seat configurations, with the six-seater option featuring captain chairs for added luxury. However, boot space is limited when all seats are in use compared to rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq.

Powertrains and Performance

The CX-80 is available with two powertrains:

1.Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):
A 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 175PS electric motor delivers a combined 327PS and 500Nm of torque. This setup enables a 0-62mph sprint in 6.8 seconds. While performance is strong on paper, transitions between electric and petrol modes can feel unrefined, and the electric motor emits noticeable whine under load.
2.3.3-litre Diesel:
Producing 255PS and 550Nm of torque, this engine offers smoother performance with better fuel efficiency (up to 50mpg) and an 8.4-second 0-62mph time. Both powertrains feature four-wheel drive and a towing capacity of up to 2.5 tonnes.

Mazda has refined the suspension for improved comfort over its smaller sibling, the CX-60. The double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension provide stability and agility, though it still lags behind rivals like the Kodiaq in ride suppleness.
Features and Technology

The CX-80 comes well-equipped across its five trims (Exclusive Line, Homura, Homura Plus, Takumi, Takumi Plus). Standard features include three-zone climate control, wireless smartphone connectivity, heated seats, a head-up display, and advanced safety systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

Higher trims add luxuries like ventilated seats and a Bose sound system. Mazda’s Driver Personalisation System adjusts settings based on driver preferences, while unique features like Trailer Hitch View simplify towing tasks. However, infotainment tech feels dated compared to touch-based systems in competitors.

Driving Impressions

On UK roads, the CX-80 impresses with its quiet cabin and composed handling. The longer wheelbase improves ride comfort over uneven surfaces compared to the CX-60. However, the PHEV’s hybrid system feels sluggish in Normal mode and only delivers its full potential in Sport mode. The diesel option offers a more consistent driving experience and was my preference.

Pricing and Value

Starting at £49,670 OTR, the CX-80 is competitively priced for its segment. Its plug-in hybrid variant appeals to company car buyers due to lower Benefit-in-Kind tax rates. While it offers strong value with generous standard equipment levels across trims, rivals like the Santa Fe may offer better overall practicality at similar price points.

Verdict

The Mazda CX-80 is a welcome addition to the seven-seat SUV market with its premium build quality, spacious interior, and efficient powertrains. While it doesn’t lead in every category—its hybrid refinement and boot space fall short—it stands out as a stylish alternative for families seeking versatility without compromising on design or comfort.


Pros:
Spacious interior with flexible seating options
Premium materials and build quality
Efficient diesel and plug-in hybrid options
Competitive pricing

Cons:
Unrefined hybrid transitions
Limited boot space with all seats up
Infotainment system lacks modern touch functionality

For families looking for a practical yet premium SUV that balances performance with efficiency, the Mazda CX-80 makes a compelling case - especially for those who value design over outright practicality.