2022 Mazda CX-8 2.5L Turbo AWD High Plus Review

In recent years, competition in the D-segment SUV market has become increasingly fierce. Consumers pay attention to practicality and space, while also having higher demands for performance and rich configurations. As a popular model in this segment, the 2022 Mazda CX-8 2.5L Turbo AWD High Plus draws attention from many family users with its turbocharged performance, all-wheel-drive system, and high-end features as core selling points. This review will explore static design, dynamic performance, and daily practicality to determine whether this car is worth buying.

In terms of exterior design, the CX-8 continues Mazda’s family-style KODO design language, featuring sleek and muscular lines. The front fascia adopts a large shield-shaped grille, accented with chrome trim. The LED headlight clusters on both sides connect with the grille, visually widening the front, giving it high recognition. A character line runs from the front fender to the rear along the side of the car, complemented by 19-inch multi-spoke rims, creating a stable stance. The rear LED taillights also adopt a connected-through design, echoing the front. The dual-exhaust layout on both sides below adds a touch of sportiness. Overall, the design manages to balance the grandeur of an SUV with a sense of refinement.

Inside the cabin, the CX-8 features a clean and simple interior layout with solid materials. The dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch materials, complemented by wood-grain trim panels and metallic accents, enhancing the luxurious feel of the interiors. The 10.25-inch central control screen is equipped with the Mazda Connect system, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with smooth operation. The instrument cluster includes a 7-inch LCD display capable of showing a wealth of driving information. The seats are wrapped in genuine leather, and the front seats support electric adjustment and heating functions, offering good comfort. The rear seats perform excellently in terms of space. Passengers with a height of 1.8 meters sitting in the back row still have about two fists of legroom, with ample headroom. The trunk has a capacity of 775L, which can be expanded to 1648L by folding down the rear seats, fully meeting the storage needs for family travel. Additionally, the car is equipped with a tri-zone automatic climate control system, rear air vents, USB charging ports, and other practical features.

In terms of power, the CX-8 is equipped with a 2.5T turbocharged engine that delivers a maximum output of 253 horsepower and a peak torque of 420 N·m, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. During actual driving, the power response at the start is rapid, acceleration is strong, and mid-to-high-end power reserves are sufficient, making overtaking very easy. When switching to Sport mode, the transmission shift logic becomes more proactive, and power delivery more vigorous. The chassis uses a front MacPherson strut independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort and able to effectively absorb road bumps. The steering is precise with a clear road feel. Although the vehicle is relatively large, handling remains commendable. The addition of the all-wheel-drive system improves the vehicle's off-road capability and stability, performing well on slippery roads or light off-road conditions.

In daily driving, the CX-8's comfort performance is commendable. Noise control in the cabin is excellent, with engine noise and tire noise kept low during travel. Wind noise increases slightly at high speeds but does not affect the riding experience. The seats offer good wrapping and support, preventing fatigue even during long drives. Gear shifting is smooth, with almost unnoticeable gear shift shocks. In terms of fuel consumption, the average consumption in mixed driving conditions is about 9.5L per 100km. For a mid-to-large SUV, this fuel efficiency performance is relatively good.

In terms of safety configuration, the CX-8 is equipped with a wealth of active and passive safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, active braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, providing comprehensive safety protection for drivers and passengers.

Overall, the 2022 Mazda CX-8 2.5L Turbo AWD High Plus performs well in terms of exterior design, interior features, power performance, and space practicality. Compared with models in the same class, its turbocharged powertrain and full-time four-wheel-drive system are major advantages, and it is also well-equipped with high cost-performance value. This car is very suitable for family users who value power performance and space practicality. Whether it's daily commuting or long-distance travel, it can handle both with ease. If you are looking for a mid-to-large SUV that balances power, space, and features, the CX-8 is worth considering.