2021 Mazda CX-8 Asaki LE review: Diesel SUV brings the luxury

The Japanese brand is the second most popular brand in the country and its latest SUV shows just why we love it so much.

Mazda big diesel SUV turns a lot of heads because of its slick looks, but its interior is where the magic really happens.

Here are five things you need to know about the Mazda CX-8 Asaki LE.

MAZDA HAS A LOT OF SUVS

High-riding vehicles have been the default choice for the majority of new car buyers for some time, and Mazda has a lot of bases covered with its comprehensive range.

The CX-8 is the second-largest in a family of six crossovers, positioned between the medium-sized CX-5 and full-sized CX-9. Originally conceived as a seven-seater for folks who don’t want to deal with the CX-9’s bulk (or thirsty petrol engine), the diesel CX-8 is now available with an interesting six-seat layout.

The CX-8 is powered by a frugal diesel engine.

THIS IS A FANCY MAZDA

The Mazda CX-8 range starts at about $43,490 drive-away. The new CX-8 Asaki LE tested here is a fair wedge dearer at about $72,500 drive-away. In many ways you get more than a standard CX-8 – all-wheel-drive traction, a huge sunroof, premium leather trim in a choice of chroma brown or pure white colours, a 10-speaker Bose stereo and seats that are both heated and cooled. There’s more equipment than you will find in a luxury car at this price.

But you also get less than regular models in one important regard – this Mazda only has six seats.

Middle row passengers are treated to big “Captain’s Chairs”.

O CAPTAIN, MY CAPTAIN

The six-seat layout is part of the Azami LE’s appeal. There are two conventional chairs up front, the same two in the boot that you find in cheaper models, and a rather premium pair in the middle. Dubbed “Captain’s Chairs” by the brand, the middle seats offer electric adjustment, plus internal heating, cooling and dedicated three-zone climate control. They make the wagon more special to behold and comfortable on long trips. The catch is that the treatment adds about $3000 to the bill and its electric folding function is rather slow, making rapid access to the third row an exercise in frustration.

High-quality finishes and luxe features adorn the cabin.

IT’S THE RIGHT SIZE

Mazda’s decision to offer third-row seating in a more compact platform than the big CX-9 pays dividends in urban environments. Tight shopping centre carparks, inner-city street parking and compact lanes are easier to handle in this wagon, which benefits from handy tech such as a 360-degree camera. As is usually the case, Mazda’s safety tech is first-rate, with front and rear auto braking, radar cruise control, lane keeping assistance and rear cross traffic alert all included as standard. This isn’t the most dynamic model in the Mazda range – the CX-5 and CX-9 both feel better-sorted on the open road – but it is easy to get on with, thanks in part to a punchy turbo diesel engine mated to a six-speed automatic with all-wheel-drive.

The CX-8 is more compact than the full-size CX-9.

THERE ISN’T MUCH LIKE IT

The range-topping CX-8 is beautifully finished and has lots of toys to justify its $70,000-plus asking price. There are few cars quite like it – you can find more expensive models with Captain’s Chairs, such as the Hyundai Palisade or range-topping Mazda CX-9, but their much larger exterior dimensions might make them a handful in town. European luxury cars either won’t match its standard features list or will cost much more than the CX-8. This isn’t a car for everyone, but it will be exactly what some folks need.

MAZDA CX-8 ASAKI LE

Price: About $72,500 drive-away

Engine: 2.2-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 140kW/450Nm

Warranty/servicing: 5yrs/unlimited km, $1890 for 5 years

Safety: 5 stars, 6 airbags, AEB, active cruise control, lane keeping assistance, rear cross traffic alert with auto braking

Thirst: 6.0L/100km

Cargo: 209 litres

Spare: Space saver

Originally published as 2021 Mazda CX-8 Asaki LE review: Diesel SUV brings the luxury