Mazda CX-80: A New Benchmark in Seven-Seat Luxury SUVs

Graham Baalham-Curry

• 3 min read
Mazda CX-80: A New Benchmark in Seven-Seat Luxury SUVs

Mazda was an early adopter of the SUV boom and has successfully filled most segments of that market. Recently, the Japanese brand addressed its gap in the largest SUV category with the introduction of the seven-seat

Mazda CX-80.

Competing against established family haulers like the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe, the CX-80 also aims to challenge premium rivals such as the BMW X7 and Audi Q7. Thanks to its refined and powerful diesel engine, it might just succeed.

First Impressions

After spending a week with the all-new CX-80 in spring, I can confirm that it is physically imposing yet surprisingly easy to manoeuvre around town and in tight car parks. This is largely due to a comprehensive suite of driver aids. Despite its size, Mazda has kept the weight closer to two tonnes than expected, which pays dividends in handling and efficiency.

On winding back roads, the CX-80 feels composed for a vehicle of its stature. Even more impressive is its fuel economy—nearly 50 mpg is achievable. The chassis is rated to tow 2.5 tonnes, making it ideal for horse owners and caravan enthusiasts.

Powertrain & Performance

Under the bonnet lies a 3.3-litre, six-cylinder turbocharged diesel, the highlight of the CX-80 experience. As a fan of six-cylinder diesels, I found this engine to be one of the sweetest I’ve ever driven. Paired with an excellent 8-speed automatic gearbox, it delivers 254 PS and 550 Nm of torque, propelling the SUV from 0–62 mph in 8.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 136 mph.

Space & Practicality

The first two rows offer generous space, while the third row is perfectly adequate for young families. With all seven seats in use, boot space is modest compared to some rivals, but in five-seat mode, the load area is superb.

Pricing & Specification

The model tested—a 3.3D AWD Exclusive-Line finished in optional Artisan Red paint (£900)—is priced at £53,675. On a PCP deal with a £10,000 deposit over 48 months and 8,000 miles per year, monthly payments work out at £456.

This entry-level CX-80 is impressively equipped, featuring:

  • 18-inch grey alloy wheels
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • LED headlights with auto-levelling and high-beam control
  • Hands-free power liftgate
  • Reversing camera
  • Roof rails

Inside, you’ll find:

  • Black leather upholstery
  • 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster
  • Heated leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Heated front seats with manual adjustment
  • Split-folding second and third-row seats

Safety tech includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, emergency lane-keeping, hill descent control, and smart brake support. Connectivity is equally strong, with Mazda Connect, a 12.3-inch centre display, navigation with seven years of free updates, Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration.

Trim Levels

  • Homura: From £53,230 – adds 20-inch black metallic alloys, black Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and piano black exterior details.
  • Homura Plus: From £55,880 – adds 360º view monitor, trailer support, and privacy glass.
  • Takumi: From £54,180 – features white Nappa leather and grey metallic alloys.
  • Takumi Plus: From £56,880 – adds 360º view monitor and privacy glass.

Warranty & Servicing

Mazda’s warranty has recently been extended to six years or 100,000 miles, a significant improvement over the previous three-year coverage. Servicing remains at 12,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Verdict

The Mazda CX-80 combines imposing size with surprising agility, exceptional refinement, and generous equipment. With its extended warranty and competitive pricing, it’s a compelling choice for families seeking space, luxury, and reliability.