Photo: Mazda
The Mazda of the week is the MX-30 electric crossover, but elsewhere in the range, the Hiroshima-based automaker has found the time and resources to update the CX-8 for the 2020 model year. Essentially a CX-5 with a longer wheelbase and seating for seven people, the family hauler will be available to order in Japan starting on November 28th.
Displayed at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, the CX-8 costs between 2,948,000 and 4,890,600 yen depending on the drivetrain option and trim level. Of the newities brought for 2020, the mid-sized crossover now features one-touch access to the third-row seats, heating for the second row, more cup holders and USB ports, as well as captain’s chairs in Nappa leather. Higher grades also include USB ports for the third-row seats.
NVH is another area where improvements were made thanks to additional soundproofing material for the roof. A power sunroof is also available, and the touchscreen infotainment system’s display now measures eight inches in diagonal. Even the underfloor trunk box is larger, sporting 19 additional liters for a grand total of 84 liters. Opting for the Bose premium sound system with a subwoofer drops the volume to 56 liters.
All-wheel-drive options starting with the 25S AWD and topping with the XD Exclusive Mode are treated to Off-Road Traction Assist, a software-based system that modulates the traction control to improve grip on slippery surfaces such as wet roads and green lanes. The Exclusive Mode mentioned beforehand is also new for 2020, and only the 2.2-liter SkyActiv-D turbo diesel with the SkyActiv-Drive auto can be specified.
No modifications were made to this engine and transmission, and Mazda didn’t improve on the 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G either. Outputs range from 190 PS with natural aspiration to 230 PS for the turbocharged version while the turbo diesel cranks out 190 metric horsepower. Torque favors the SkyActiv-D because most is produced low in the rev range, helping with off-the-line acceleration as well as fuel economy on the long haul.
NVH is another area where improvements were made thanks to additional soundproofing material for the roof. A power sunroof is also available, and the touchscreen infotainment system’s display now measures eight inches in diagonal. Even the underfloor trunk box is larger, sporting 19 additional liters for a grand total of 84 liters. Opting for the Bose premium sound system with a subwoofer drops the volume to 56 liters.
All-wheel-drive options starting with the 25S AWD and topping with the XD Exclusive Mode are treated to Off-Road Traction Assist, a software-based system that modulates the traction control to improve grip on slippery surfaces such as wet roads and green lanes. The Exclusive Mode mentioned beforehand is also new for 2020, and only the 2.2-liter SkyActiv-D turbo diesel with the SkyActiv-Drive auto can be specified.
No modifications were made to this engine and transmission, and Mazda didn’t improve on the 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G either. Outputs range from 190 PS with natural aspiration to 230 PS for the turbocharged version while the turbo diesel cranks out 190 metric horsepower. Torque favors the SkyActiv-D because most is produced low in the rev range, helping with off-the-line acceleration as well as fuel economy on the long haul.
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