Mazda has no plans to stop with new SUV models. Besides the CX-3, CX-5, and CX-9, the new 2020 Mazda CX-8 will be available soon. This seven-seat SUV is a model for the North American markets. CX-8 was introduced in 2017 so it is a relatively fresh model. For that reason, Mazda won’t introduce major changes and upgrades.
However, one important thing will happen in the near future. Mazda plans to move the production in the United States later next year. The 2020 CX-8 will continue with the same modern styling and the interior looks very upscale. It offers a diesel engine and performance are more than satisfying.
2020 Mazda CX-8 Design and Dimensions
The upcoming 2020 Mazda CX-8 looks very similar to the CX-9 model. It comes with the same front fascia and similar shape. The grille is literally identical and headlights are similar as well. However, CX-8 comes with larger wheel arches and more stylish body lines. At the back, CX-8 comes with a smaller overhang and horizontal taillights.
The mid-size SUV is basically fresh so Mazda won’t introduce any drastic changes. CX-8 is 192.9 inches long and 72.4 inches tall. That means the CX-8 is slightly smaller than its CX-9 sibling. We must say that this SUV lacks uniqueness but we must admit that it looks modern.
CX-8 Cabin is Perfectly Crafted
The interior will depart from the CX-9 model. It makes a lot of sense as the 2020 Mazda CX-8 is a model for North America. For the start, the dashboard looks bubblier. Vents are placed on the front of the dashboard. Three-gauge instrument cluster sports a speedometer and tachometer. Also, a driver-information screen sits right next to the cluster.
The two-spoke steering wheel adds silver accents and more thumb buttons. The shifter is perfectly placed and it is moved slightly toward the dash. Door trim panels are very upscale and the whole interior is premium. Comfort is great and CX-8 is available in four trim levels. Two trims are available with the standard Nappa leather upholstery and real wood materials. First, two trim levels are offering standard fabric seats and cheaper plastic trims. While the CX-8 is a seven-seat SUV, a six-seat configuration is available too.
Improved Performance
While most of the body is identical to the CX-9 model, CX-8 won’t borrow the engine from its sibling. Instead of the 2.5-liter engine, CX-8 SUV comes with a 2.2-liter diesel. We already saw this engine in some of Mazda’s model. However, a couple of tweaks will improve the performance, but not significantly.
The previous version was producing 172 hp and a new one will generate 187 horsepower. On top of that, 310 lb-ft of torque is more than enough. The diesel engine comes with the standard front-wheel-drive system and the 6-speed automatic transmission. G-Vectoring control comes as standard on all trim levels. All-wheel-drive setup is optional.
2020 Mazda CX-8 Price and Release Date
The price of the all-new 2020 Mazda CX-8 will stay intact. That means the mid-size SUV will cost $32,000. Range-topping models will cost over $42,000. While the new model won’t introduce any major changes, one thing is worth a mention.
Mazda plans to move the production of the CX-8 model in the United States. The production will start by the end of the next year. But before that happens, the 2020 CX-8 will hit the markets this December.