Following in the footsteps of the CX-60 and CX-90 is the in-betweener CX-80, due to arrive here in November, with pricing to be revealed in the next few weeks. Given the CX-60 starts at $82k and the CX-90 Takami is $93k, the CX-80 will probably fall somewhere in between. The dimensions for the incoming seven seater fall closer to CX-90 than CX-60, and it features the same wheelbase so figure on late 80s.
The CX-80 is the third model in New Zealand to launch using Mazda’s Large Architecture platform. First seen on CX-60 and CX-90, this platform is designed for top-flight comfort, technology and driving performance.
The CX-80 is a premium three-row SUV with a ‘Graceful Toughness’ design concept. The body size was chosen to mix easy manoeuvring in daily driving and parking situations. That said, it is one cm shy of 5m in length.
The architectural design approach is supposed to express calmness, richness, and a premium quality space.
There are two engine options available for CX-80, one a PHEV with a 2.5 litre four-cylinder e-Skyactiv G petrol while the other is a straight-six 3.3 litre turbopetrol incorporating Mazda’s 48V mild hybrid system. It delivers 209kW and 450Nm of torque.
The former mates the petrol engine with a 129kW electric motor and a 17.8 kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery. System total output is 241kW and 500Nm. Mazda says electric driving range is around 60km. Both powerplants drive through an eight-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ All-Wheel Drive system. There are four drive modes to choose from, along with EV mode for the PHEV. Both models have a 2500kg braked tow capacity.
Two model grades will be offered, the top being SP, a sports inspired variant that comes with powered and heated front seats, leather trim, 20-inch alloys and LED headlights. Other features include a powered tailgate, black wing mirrors and honeycomb grille, 360 degree surround view monitor, and Mazda’s Personalisation System. CX-80 SP is available with either of the powertrains.
CX-80 Homura adds a panoramic glass sunroof, adaptive LED headlights, electric adjustment for the heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and driver facial recognition technology. A premium Bose audio system is part of the Homura package which comes only with the Plug-in Hybrid powertrain.
A black leather interior is standard for both SP and Homura and is paired with leather-like trim and mesh metal film inserts on instrument panel, centre console and doors.
The CX-80’s second row bench has a sliding range of 120mm and a fully variable seat recline range of 15 to 33 degrees. Third row seats can accommodate occupants up to 1700 mm in height.
Access to the third-row seating is facilitated by a one-touch walk-in function.
The Mazda CX-80 will go on-sale here in November with pricing announced shortly.
