Mazda CX-8 2019 Review

In Malaysia's D-Segment 7-seater SUV market, consumers need to meet the spatial requirements of multi-member families while hoping to strike a balance between driving quality and practical configurations. Often, choices require trade-offs among budget, functionality, and experience. The 2019 Mazda CX-8 2.5L MID PLUS, positioned as the mid-range configuration in the lineup, is priced at RM 209,360. While retaining the core powertrain and safety features, it enhances comfort and convenience for both driver and passengers. This review will focus on verifying whether its space design fits daily family needs, whether the power output can handle urban and highway scenarios, and whether the upgraded features provide a tangible boost to the user experience.

Approaching the 2019 CX-8 2.5L MID PLUS, the first impression is Mazda's signature KODO design language, with smooth lines that retain an SUV's sense of stability. The front features a large shield-shaped grille paired with chrome strips that naturally connect to the LED headlights on both sides. The daytime running lights are styled in strips, giving them high visibility when lit. The side profile features a waistline extending from the fender to the rear, complementing the 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, which visually elongate the vehicle's proportions. The car's length of 4900mm and a wheelbase of 2930mm provide a foundation for the 7-seater layout. The rear design is simple, with horizontally arranged LED taillights that harmonize with the chrome detailing on the rear bumper for a cohesive and unified style.

Opening the door, the interior continues Mazda's consistent simplistic style, with the center console tilted towards the driver for easier operation. In terms of materials, the door panel armrests and seats are wrapped in leather, offering a soft touch. The air conditioning vents and steering wheel are accented with silver trim, boosting the sense of detailed craftsmanship. Key features include a 7-inch touch infotainment display supporting basic multimedia functions, paired with a TFT LCD multifunction display that clearly shows speed, fuel economy, and other information. For convenience, the front row features 10-way power-adjustable seats to help quickly find a comfortable seating position. The third-row 50/50 split-folding seats come with two headrests, enabling effortless expansion of cargo space.

Space performance is one of the core demands of 7-seater SUVs. With a 2930mm wheelbase, the CX-8 2.5L MID PLUS provides ample legroom for second-row passengers. Adults can comfortably sit with around two fists of space between their knees and the front seats. Additionally, the second row is equipped with independent air conditioning vents and power outlets to ensure comfort during long rides. The third-row space is relatively compact, making it suitable for children under 1.6 meters tall or adults on short trips, with no stress for emergency use. In terms of storage capacity, the trunk offers 209L of space in its regular state, easily accommodating two carry-on luggage pieces. Folding down the third-row seats expands the space significantly, meeting the needs of family shopping or short trips.

In terms of power, the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine delivers a maximum output of 195PS at 6000rpm and a maximum torque of 252Nm at 4000rpm (calculated based on displacement and horsepower), paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. During daily driving, the acceleration is smooth, and the throttle's response is linear. It performs effortlessly in urban traffic, flowing well with surrounding vehicles. When the RPM climbs to 4000, the torque is fully unleashed. For highway overtaking, stepping harder on the throttle prompts quick downshifts from the transmission and immediate power delivery. In terms of drive modes, the Standard mode balances power and fuel efficiency, while switching to Sport mode delays gear changes, maintaining higher RPM levels and providing more responsive power delivery.

The handling and chassis performance are commendable. The steering wheel is precise with minimal play; it's light at low speeds for easier parking and stable at high speeds to boost confidence. The front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension are tuned for comfort. When going over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension effectively filters out bumps with minimal body vibrations. Body roll is well-controlled during cornering, without noticeable swaying. As for braking performance, the front ventilated disc and rear ventilated disc combination provides linear braking pedal feedback. In emergency braking, the vehicle remains stable, and the braking distance meets the standards of its class.

In the fuel consumption tests, the vehicle demonstrated a fuel consumption of about 9.5L per 100 km in urban congested conditions. On highways, fuel consumption dropped to approximately 7.2L per 100 km, resulting in a combined fuel consumption of about 8.3L/100km, which is close to the official figure of 7.9L/100km. For a 1.78-ton 7-seater SUV, this is considered above average performance. In terms of driving comfort details, the vehicle effectively controls tire and wind noise, maintaining clear conversation at a speed of 110 km/h. The seats are moderately supportive, reducing fatigue during long drives.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2019 Mazda CX-8 2.5L MID PLUS lie in its balanced space, smooth power delivery, and practical configuration. Compared to its peers in the same segment, its price of 209,360 MYR is approximately 7,000 MYR lower than the high-spec 2.2L HIGH diesel variant (216,123 MYR), while still retaining key features such as the 360-degree panoramic camera, automatic parking, and tri-zone climate control, making it stand out in terms of value for money. It is suitable for consumers who prioritize family utility, seek smooth driving experiences, and have a budget around 200,000 MYR. Whether it’s for daily commuting or weekend family outings, this car meets the requirements well.

As a 7-seater mid-size SUV, the 2019 CX-8 2.5L MID PLUS has no obvious shortcomings. Its space, power, configurations, and fuel consumption performance are all above average within its class. If you need a car that balances family utility and daily driving quality and don’t require a four-wheel-drive system, this model is worth considering.