Mazda CX-8 - Any Thoughts

I am interested in the Mazda CX-8, seems like good value for about $45-47k (sport mode) when it comes to space, # of seats and drive quality.

Also, I am keen on getting something with all the latest safety tech - which the CX-8 sport comes with as standard.

Any thoughts or comments that I should consider before making my decision?

Any other comparable cars in the market for the same price?

Thanks for your help.

Comments

  • Just bought the CX-8 Asaki and I love it. It’s diesel but it’s very smooth and extremely quiet. The finish is outstanding and all the technology is pretty impressive too.

    • I think there's a 7-year warranty on it and they gave me 5 years free servicing.

      • Wheee… thats good

  • Is it true diesel is bad for city driving?

  • Diesel particulate filter technology is pretty effective these days.

    • Zoltán Massay-Kosubek, policy manager at the EPHA, said: “I would not consider diesel as part of the solution, but as part of the problem. You can improve the filters but it still remains a fuel-burning technology.”

      • +1

        …as is the gas/coal that fires the power stations that supply the energy to charge the EVs.

        Of course, we want a completely green solution to our energy consumption but it ain't happening in our lifetime. So, it's pointless sneering at those driving gasoline or diesel vehicles when we use fossil-fuel-produced energy, every day of our lives.

        • -1

          It’s not that bad. A Diesel engine is around 25% efficient. A coal fired power station is up to 49% efficient and has the advantage of being able to fit particulate filters that don’t need to be lightweight like a car. Add some transmission losses and powering an electric vehicle is pretty close to the same efficiency of a petrol or diesel car, not takignitinaccount hiw much we need to transport he duke to get it to us in the first place.

          We are increasing the amount of renewable energy generation to further reduce that pollution.

  • -2

    Avoid diesel.
    Watch out for start/stop system… they chew through batteries.

    "Any other comparable cars in the market for the same price?"

    Kluger. In 2wd version is very economical, more so when you add in low servicing cost & long term reliability.
    Kia suv range.
    If you must have diesel get the best one out there.. Isuzu MUX.

    • +1

      Start stop doesn't chew through batteries, but it is a pain in the ass. I generally saw start stop batteries lasting 3-4 years from factory.

      I personally wouldn't buy a diesel Mazda, they do not have a great track record. Mux is fantastic.

      • +2

        Most people switch off start/stop! I don't know anyone that likes it.

        • +1

          It's an abomination. Saves 4 litres of fuel a year but drives you flipping crazy.

          • @brendanm: Was mainly put in to fudge average fuel consumption figures on the sticker afaik.

            And yes, new Hiace has it :/

            • @spackbace:

              And yes, new Hiace has it :/

              Could save a fair bit of fuel on a courier van if it was switched off for each delivery instead of left idling every time.

              Agree about it being a pain in the buttocks and everyone switching it off where possible.

  • +2

    I've got at Sport, had it since new about 7 months old. Had an issue with the DPF but was resolved under warranty.

    You need to give it a decent run every 3-4 days if you're just doing short trips.

  • I like CX8 and given the right price I would buy it.

  • CX8 is just a slightly stretched CX5

  • Thanks for the all the feedback guys!

    Based on your feedback and a little more research from my end, I had a couple more questions

    1) I won't be driving it a lot - mostly once on weekends - will this have an impact on the diesel engine? I know I have to take it for a highway run at least once a week, but if I only drive it once a week anyways, does it mean I can do the highway run every two-three weeks?

    2) I am in the middle of welcoming Bub 1 in October and then possibly another Bub in another 24 months after. If I have extra family members to haul around, will access to the third row be restricted with 2 car seats in the middle row - I guess this is for someone who already owns the car - else I have to go test drive it. I noticed that someone mentioned in a review on the Santa Fe that they could only access 3rd row seats from the boot once there were two car seats in the 2nd row.

    Based on answers and research to these questions, I may have to rethink or reaffirm my view on the CX 8.

    Thanks again!

    • If you want adults in the 3rd row, forget just about every 7-seater on the market. Adults will struggle to easily get in the 3rd row, no room for a pram for the kids, and all in all just an uncomfortable drive for the adults.

      Buy a people mover. I know it's not the 'coolest' thing to own but it suits what you want.

      Or keep the current car till the 2nd kid comes along? What are you currently driving?

      • I don’t drive a car at the moment. Given that we don’t drive much and live in a well connected Sydney suburb, we have managed with carnextdoor and goget.

        Which people mover would you recommend?

        • Kia grand carnival is good choice then. V6 engine is zippy enough for a car that size.

          • @Ash SA: Kia Grand Carnival looks good I must admit.

            However, if I am not mistaken, it is not AWD so need a chain for the snow.

            • @burningrage: Snow? Did I miss that detail somewhere?

              Well the answer to your question is NO. People movers are not SUVs and for a reason mate.
              Other best bet from wagon line would be a Landcruiser where adults can use rear seats but that woukd be a costly matter and not a "family car" thing.

  • Someone asked about DPF in CX8. Raised a good point. CX5 Diesel has no such problem.

    https://www.carsguide.com.au/car-advice/q-and-a/mazda-cx-8-d…

  • Test drive one. I was sold as soon as I did. The CX-9 was just too big for my needs but the CX-8 was spot on. The Diesel engine didn’t even come into it but the economy figures are pretty impressive, once I looked into it.

  • What about the Peugeot 5008?

    They seem to have a good deal currently - 5008 for 42,990/- driveaway. I should be able to get something off on that…

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