Mazda Philippines expands it CX-line of SUVs with the introduction of two all-new models: the CX-30 subcompact crossover and the three-row mid-sized CX-8 crossover.
2020 Mazda CX-8
Slotting between the CX-5 and CX-9 in terms of size, the CX-8 is Mazda’s newest three-row SUV. Unlike its competition, Mazda is offering two distinct seating configurations — a family-oriented seven-seater version or a more luxury-oriented six-seater one. The former is exclusively available in front-wheel drive, while the latter is exclusively in all-wheel drive trim.
Regardless of seating configuration, the CX-8 is powered by a normally aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine mated to a six-speed automatic. Making 190 horsepower at 6,000rpm and 252Nm of torque at 4,000rpm, this powertrain separates the CX-8 from its larger CX-9 sibling, while still offering spirited, yet efficient performance that Mazda is known for.
Built on the same platform that underpins the CX-9, the CX-8 is 175mm shorter, 129mm narrower, and 17mm lower than the CX-9. Wheelbase though is the same for both models (2,930mm). It essentially shares the CX-9’s suspension system but with its own unique tuning. For instance, the rebound spring in the front damper has enhanced the CX-8’s cornering stability.
Features-wise, almost nothing separates these two variants. Both come with light-sensing adaptive LED headlights, 19-inch wheels wrapped in 225/55R19 Toyo tires, power tailgate, and rain-sensing wipers. Inside, both the FWD and AWD variants offer standard Nappa leather seats in a Deep Red color, power adjustment for the front occupants (10-way with memory for the driver, six-way for the passenger), tri-zone automatic climate control, windshield-projected heads-up display, power sunroof, and an eight-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10-speaker Bose sound system.
For safety, both variants come with six SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, blind spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, and lane departure warning with lane keep assist.
The only differentiation comes in its standard suite of driver assist technology. Only the AWD variant comes with i-Activ Sense which bundles adaptive radar-based cruise control, smart brake support, and driver-attention alert.
The 2020 Mazda CX-8 starts at P2,290,000 for the 4×2 Signature and tops out at P2,450,000 for the 4×4 Exclusive.
2020 Mazda CX-30
Meant as an in-between to the CX-3 and the CX-5, the CX-30 is the second seventh-generation model after the all-new 2020 Mazda3. Built to cater to a wide range of buyers, the CX-30 is meant to be a life partner, particularly for those who’re approaching significant life transitions.
Adopting the Evolved KODO design, the CX-30 is bold and sleek, combining the flowing lines of a coupe with the bold proportions of an SUV. The narrowed arch shape of the liftgate, in particular, is interesting because it makes the body look shorter and wider, while still offering cargo space befitting an SUV. The base variant rides on 16-inch wheels (215/65R16 tires), but the mid- and high-trim model both are on 18-inch wheels with 215/55R18 tires. LED lighting, rain-sensing wipers, and power folding mirrors are standard, but only the mid- and high-trim models benefit from adaptive front lighting. Only the high-trim gets a power tailgate.
Dimensionally, the CX-30 is longer (4,395mm versus 4,275mm) and wider (1,795mm versus 1,765mm) than the current CX-3. It keeps the same overall height (1,540mm), but ground clearance is higher at 175mm (versus 160mm). Interestingly, the wheelbase, 2,655mm approaches levels close to the CX-5’s 2,700mm.
Mechanically, the CX-30 shares its underpinnings with the all-new Mazda3. With that, it comes as no surprise that it uses the same powertrain: a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G making 155 horsepower at 6,000rpm and 200Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. A six-speed automatic with sport mode is standard across the line-up, but only the high-trim model gets the added security of all-wheel drive.
Inside, the CX-30 takes the same minimalist approach seen in the Mazda3. Here, designers focused on giving the driver a cockpit-like feel, while also giving a clean, airy space for the passengers. Compared to the CX-3, the CX-30 features a wider distance between the front seats while also accommodating a wide center console and center armrest. The rear seats are also more spacious with better head- and legroom. In terms of luggage space, it can accommodate 430 liters of cargo.
A two-tone black and dark brown cabin greets the occupants on all variants. All, but the low trim model has leather seating too. Power adjust, at least for the driver, is only available in the high-trim model.
In terms of comfort and convenience features, all variants get a seven-inch LCD screen nestled in the gauges as well as the latest generation Mazda Connect infotainment with its 8.8-inch widescreen display and eight-speaker Mazda Harmonic Acoustics audio system. Moving up to the mid-trim model gets you cruise control, dual zone climate control with rear vents and an auto dimming rear view mirror, while opting for the high-trim adds adaptive cruise control, windshield-projected heads-up display, and the 12-speaker Bose sound system.
Safety-wise, all models get seven SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, stability control, and rear parking camera as standard equipment. The high-trim model adds front and rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera too. Furthermore, the high-trim is the only one available with i-Activsense. This suite combines smart brake support, front-cross traffic alert, and driver-attention alert along with blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert to make the safest car ever tested by the Euro NCAP.
The 2020 Mazda CX-30 comes in four variants: the low-trim 2WD Pro which is priced at P1,490,000, the mid-trim 2WD Sport at P1,790,000, and finally the pair of high-trim AWD Sport and AWD Signature—both priced at P1,990,000. The only difference is the AWD Signature’s white leather seats.
