2020 Mazda CX-8 gets loads of equipment updates for Japan

KUALA LUMPUR: With everyone’s attention focused on Mazda MX-30 at 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, the brand has also revealed loads of updates for the CX-8. The Japanese carmaker is offering the vehicle in a total of nine trim levels. The lineup includes two Mode Special Edition options as well, and their prices lie between 2,948,000 and 4,890,600 yen (RM113,285 and RM187,935).

Speaking of the powertrain, 2020 CX-8 is offered with a sole SkyActiv-D turbodiesel engine and two SkyActiv-G petrol mills, and the transmission duties are handled by a SkyActiv-Drive six-speed automatic gearbox for every trim. The petrol motor includes a naturally-aspirated four-cylinder 2.5 litres unit, which is capable of churning out 190 PS of maximum power at 6,000 rpm and 252 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The second petrol option features a turbocharged version with power and torque outputs of 230 PS at 4,250 rpm and 420 Nm at 2,000 rpm, respectively. At the same time, the diesel mill is a 2.2-litre four-cylinder motor producing 190 PS at 4,500 rpm and 450 Nm of peak torque.

After the update, the buyers can now choose from an all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive with any powertrain option, which was not permitted by the carmaker earlier. If the users select AWD, then he/she will get the benefit of a new Off-Road Traction Assist system that enhances the performance on rough roads.

Other updates can be found in the cabin as it now gets eight inches infotainment system as the earlier model got seven inches unit. To decrease the sound of the rain, the roof has been treated with a special coating. The space inside the cabin has also improved as the trunk space is now 84 litres (+19 litres). However, if you choose to install the Bose speakers, then the storage capacity will drop to 56 litres. Reclining functions and power sliding for the second-row seats is only available in the special edition Exclusive Mode trims.

The sales of the updated SUV is set to begin from November 28 in Japan.

Also Read: Booking starts for 2019 Mazda CX8 CKD in Malaysia