2019 Mazda CX-8 2.5L HIGH Review

In Malaysia's mid-to-large SUV market, 7-seater models have always been the core choice for family users—they need to meet daily commuting needs while also providing ample space for weekend family outings. The 2019 Mazda CX-8 2.5L HIGH variant, as a contender in this segment, focuses on "balanced practicality + Japanese refinement." This time, we conducted a test drive to see if it can strike an optimal balance between space, power, and features, offering family users a reliable choice.

From the exterior, the CX-8 continues Mazda's KODO design language, but the overall lines lean more towards stability. The front features a large shield-shaped grille with chrome trim connecting the LED headlights on either side, giving it high recognition; the body side has sleek lines, with a bold waistline extending from the hood to the rear. The 19-inch multi-spoke wheels further enhance the car's grandeur; at the rear, the horizontally arranged LED taillights echo the chrome trim, and the silver skid plate on the lower rear bumper adds a touch of ruggedness to this SUV. The lighting system comes standard with LED, and the addition of automatic headlights and front fog lights makes daily use more convenient.

Sitting inside, the CX-8's interior style leans towards simplicity and practicality. The dashboard adopts a symmetrical design, covered with soft-touch materials and accented with silver trims, exuding a texture befitting its D-segment positioning. The central console features a 7-inch touchscreen, which, although not large, is smooth to operate and supports Bluetooth connectivity and basic function controls. The combination of the HUD head-up display and the TFT LCD instrument cluster allows the driver to monitor speed, fuel consumption, and other information in real-time, enhancing driving safety. In terms of features, keyless entry, a 10-way electrically adjustable driver's seat, and a 6-way electrically adjustable front passenger seat all come standard. The front seats provide good support and remain comfortable during long drives. The three-zone automatic climate control system is a must-have feature for family users, with independent rear air conditioning catering to second- and third-row passengers. The rear power outlets and storage compartments are also quite considerate.

Space performance is one of the CX-8's key selling points. The vehicle dimensions are 4900mm×1840mm×1730mm, with a wheelbase of 2930mm, placing it in the upper-middle range among 7-seater SUVs in its class. The second-row seats are adjustable for sliding back and forth. A 175cm tall passenger can enjoy about two fists of legroom and a fist of headroom when seated. The third-row seats are more suitable for children or adults on short trips, with about one fist of legroom when the second-row seat is slid to its frontmost position, making it sufficient for occasional use. The standard trunk space is 209L, which can accommodate several carry-on suitcases, and folding down the third row significantly expands the space to meet the luggage needs for family trips.

In terms of power, the CX-8 is equipped with a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine delivering a maximum power output of 195PS/6000rpm and a peak torque of 252N·m/4000rpm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. During actual driving, the car has a relatively smooth start, and the power output is linear in the low-rev range, making it suitable for urban commuting. During acceleration, the transmission's shifting logic is clear, and gear changes are smooth. When stepping harder on the accelerator, the engine provides decent power reserves above 4000rpm, offering confidence during overtaking. There are two driving modes available: Normal and Sport. In Sport mode, the throttle response is more sensitive, but overall the power delivery is more oriented towards household comfort rather than delivering a strong push-back sensation.

In terms of handling and chassis performance, the CX-8 adopts a front MacPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort. During daily driving on urban roads, the suspension can filter out most vibrations when encountering speed bumps or bumpy roads, ensuring passengers do not feel significant discomfort inside the car. When cornering, the body roll is controlled within a reasonable range, the steering is precise with minimal slack, and the overall driving experience is relatively stable. With a minimum ground clearance of 200mm, it offers decent off-road capability and can handle occasional unpaved roads.

As for fuel consumption, we tested it under mixed city and highway conditions, and the consumption was about 8.5L per 100km, slightly higher than the official figure of 7.9L. However, considering its weight and 7-seater design, this performance is within an acceptable range. The braking performance is stable, and the brake pedal response is linear. During emergency braking, the vehicle maintains good posture. Regarding noise control, some road and wind noise can be heard inside the cabin during high-speed driving, but it does not affect normal conversations, overall meeting the standards for family SUVs.

In conclusion, the core advantages of the 2019 Mazda CX-8 2.5L HIGH version lie in its balanced space performance, rich safety features (6 airbags, lane departure warning, forward collision alert, etc.), and comfortable driving experience. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Highlander or Ford Edge in the same class, the CX-8 offers more generous configurations and is relatively budget-friendly, showcasing outstanding value for money.

This car is more suitable for users who prioritize family practicality — such as families who frequently transport elderly or children, or those who enjoy weekend outings. It does not have an overly aggressive design, nor does it have significant performance drawbacks. It's simply a "well-rounded" family SUV that can meet all daily needs. If you're looking for a spacious, well-configured, and comfortable-to-drive 7-seater SUV, the CX-8 is worth considering on your shortlist.