Mazda CX-80, The Upscale SUV, Announces Early Release in 2022

In early 2021, Mazda announced its plans to introduce five new SUV models, namely 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 who prefer luxury brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Following their release, the CX-60 and CX-90 quickly gained popularity and became top-selling models in many markets, thereby validating the effectiveness of the company’s new strategy.

Building on this success, Mazda is now gearing up to unveil a three-row SUV called the CX-80, which will primarily target markets outside of North America, including Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

Essentially, the Mazda CX-80 serves as an extended version of the previously launched CX-60 and can be considered an upgrade to a “near-luxury” level from the CX-8. Although the vehicle was originally slated for release in late 2023, it was ultimately postponed to early 2024.

The Mazda CX-80 continues to be developed based on the KODO design language that has solidified the brand’s reputation over the years. This model will feature 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 bears an uncanny resemblance to the CX-60, with the exception of longer rear doors, a lower rear bumper, and a larger D-pillar.

Expect the Mazda CX-80 to offer a luxurious and contemporary cabin space that rivals the best in its segment, just like its “siblings,” the CX-60 and CX-90. With a longer wheelbase than the CX-60, the Mazda CX-80 provides ample seating in all three rows with a total of seven seats.

The cabin amenities are set to 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 share similar technical characteristics with other models in the Large Product lineup. Although it may not possess an adaptive suspension system, the CX-80 is expected to deliver 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, and 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 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and the choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

In addition, Mazda plans to incorporate the Skyactiv-X engine into the CX-80. This engine boasts adjustable fuel-air mixture ratios, which help enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

The Mazda CX-80 is scheduled to be officially announced for international launch in early 2024, with customer deliveries commencing around mid-year. This SUV model will be made available in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, and other countries. The CX-80 will directly compete against the Peugeot 5008, Hyundai Santa Fe, Skoda Kodiaq, and Kia Sorento.

Thái Son (Tuoitrethudo)

Reference: Carscoops