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The 2018 Mazda CX-8 2.2L Diesel represents a shift from the "family van" feel toward a more premium, driver-focused SUV experience. It is often described as the "right-sized" SUV narrower and easier to park than the massive CX-9, but with a long wheelbase that allows for genuine three-row seating.
The standout feature of this specific model is the 2.2L SkyActiv-D Twin-Turbo Diesel engine. It produces 450 Nm of torque at just 2,000 rpm. This means the car feels light and responsive even when fully loaded with seven passengers, making highway overtaking effortless. Unlike older "clattery" diesels, Mazda used "Natural Sound Smoother" technology. It is remarkably quiet, often sounding more like a petrol engine from inside the cabin. Despite its size, it remains very economical for an SUV, typically returning around 6.0 to 7.0 L/100km (approx. 14–16 km/L) on combined cycles.
Mazda's goal with the CX-8 was to create an interior that rivals European luxury brands. The cabin uses high-quality soft-touch materials, real wood or metal accents (in higher trims), and a sleek, uncluttered dashboard design. The CX-8 features extra sound-deadening materials in the rear wheel arches and roof to ensure that conversation can happen easily between the first and third rows. Higher grades often include heated seats not just for the driver, but also for the second-row passenger a rare luxury in this segment.
Features like collision control and parking sensors, you’ll appreciate Mazda’s highly-rated safety ecosystem: This is Mazda’s version of collision control, which works at both forward and reverse speeds to prevent low-speed impacts. AWD version, which uses 27 sensors to monitor everything from outside temperature to wiper usage, predicting when a wheel might slip before it actually happens. Blind Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Standard on almost all grades, these help manage the SUV’s length when changing lanes or backing out of tight spots.
Mazda builds SUVs for people who actually enjoy driving. G-Vectoring Control (GVC): This subtle technology adjusts engine torque in response to steering inputs. It shifts the car's weight forward when you enter a corner, making the steering feel more precise and reducing the "sway" felt by passengers. Direct Steering: Unlike the "vague" feeling sometimes found in large MPVs, the CX-8 has a car-like steering weight that makes it feel much smaller than it actually is.
While many SUVs have a "5+2" setup (where the back seats are for emergencies only), the CX-8 is a true 7-seater. Easy Access, The rear doors open to a wide 80 degrees, making it much easier to climb into the third row or install a child seat. Adjustable Middle Row, The second row slides and reclines significantly, allowing you to balance legroom between all three rows depending on who is on board.
The CX-8 has much higher "curb appeal" and a more powerful, "planted" feel on the road. However, you do trade away the sliding doors and the completely flat floor of an MPV for the CX-8's superior handling and premium styling.
