Mazda CX-80, the “near luxury” SUV, sets a release date for early next year

In early 2021, Mazda announced plans to launch 5 new SUV models, including the CX-50, CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90. These models are positioned in the premium SUV segment and aim to target customers of luxury brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz. After their release, the CX-60 and CX-90 quickly gained popularity and became top-selling models in many markets, proving the effectiveness of the company’s new strategy.

Continuing this success, Mazda is preparing to introduce a three-row SUV called the CX-80, targeting markets outside of North America, including Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

Essentially, the Mazda CX-80 is an extended version of the previously launched CX-60 and can be seen as an upgrade to a “near-luxury” level from the CX-8. The vehicle was initially scheduled for release at the end of 2023 but was later postponed to early 2024.

The Mazda CX-80 continues to be developed based on the KODO design language that has built the brand’s reputation over the years. This model will have a longer wheelbase than the CX-60 (2,870 mm) but significantly shorter than the CX-90’s 3,119 mm. According to Carscoops, the exterior of the CX-80 is almost identical to the CX-60, except for the longer rear doors, lower rear bumper, and larger D-pillar.

The Mazda CX-80 is expected to have a luxurious and modern cabin space that is among the best in its segment, similar to its “siblings” the CX-60 and CX-90. With a longer wheelbase than the CX-60, the Mazda CX-80 provides spacious seating in all three rows with 7 seats.

The cabin amenities will include a digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 360-degree surround-view monitor, a heads-up display, interior ambient lighting, and a personalized customizable system with facial recognition.

Built on the Mazda Skyactiv Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture, the CX-80 will have similar technical characteristics to other models in the Large Product lineup. Although it does not have an adaptive suspension system, the CX-80 is expected to provide a significantly smoother driving experience compared to its “siblings”, the CX-60.

The Mazda CX-80 will be available with various engine options, including the e-Skyactiv D 6-cylinder inline 3.3-liter diesel engine with a power output of 251 horsepower; the e-Skyactiv-G 3.3-liter hybrid gasoline engine with a power output of 280 horsepower; the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder PHEV engine with a power output of 323 horsepower and a torque of 500 Nm. All engine options will come with an 8-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

In addition, Mazda plans to add the Skyactiv-X engine to the CX-80. This engine has adjustable fuel-air mixture ratios, which helps improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

The Mazda CX-80 will be officially announced for international launch in early 2024, before reaching customers around mid-year. This SUV model will be sold in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, and other countries. Direct competitors of the CX-80 include the Peugeot 5008, Hyundai Santa Fe, Skoda Kodiaq, and Kia Sorento.

Thái Sơn (Tuoitrethudo)

Reference: Carscoops