2018 Mazda CX-8 revealed in Japan

KUALA LUMPUR: After releasing a couple of teaser images, the Japanese automaker has finally revealed its entirely new model in the CX range. Yes, the much-awaited 2018 CX-8 is launched in Japan, which serves as the flagship and the biggest SUV for the company in the home ground due to the absence of CX-9. The new SUV is available in either 6-/7-seater configuration.

Although the CX-8 is larger than the CX-5, it is quite similar to the smaller sibling in terms of its designing. At the front, a signature grille along with sharp, and sleek headlights grants bold and aggressive stance while the smooth character lines flowing all over the body add a touch of elegance. The all-new CX-8 is 4900 mm long, 1840 mm wide and 1730 mm tall while the wheelbase stands at 2930 mm, which is equivalent to the CX-9.

As the SUV is long, it has a longer window profile and bigger D-pillar. The rear profile is similar to the CX-9 and features quarter-flanking taillights which are further topped up by dual exhaust pipes. The cabin layout is also similar to the CX-5 with a lot of features and equipment to jazz up the ride. Some of these include a leather covered, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, touchscreen infotainment system with center-console mounted controls, automatic climate control, and three-pod gauges.

With the all-new CX-8, you also get a choice between four interior packages that include two leather and two fabric upholsteries. The top-end variant is offered with a two-tone colour scheme wherein the top is differentiated from the lower section.  The utility aspect is addressed quite well by the manufacturer as the 2018 Mazda CX-8 can hold 239-litre of luggage with all three rows up. This further increases up to 572-litre with the third row down. It also offers a load space beneath the floor for holding small items or loose objects.

Under the hood, it is powered by a 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D four-cylinder unit that is capable of churning out a maximum power output of 188 PS and peak torque of 450 Nm. The engine is further mated to a six-speed automatic transmission while it available in front as well as the all-wheel-drive option. In all the trims, the G-Vectoring Control comes as a standard unit. Some of the safety features of the SUV include adaptive LED headlights, Smart City Brake Support, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Monitoring.

Currently, the 2018 Mazda CX-8 is offered in the Japanese market and its availability in other markets is not clear.