Mazda reveals all-new CX-8

Mazda has released the first exterior image of its all-new seven-seat crossover SUV, the CX-8.

Revealing a side profile similar to that of the CX-5 and CX-9, this single image of the CX-8 follows official confirmation of its existence and the first interior image in April.

No further details have been announced, but while the CX-8 sits physically between the CX-5 and CX-9 in terms of nomenclature, it rides on the same 2930mm wheelbase as the CX-9 and will also offer seven seats (although a six-seat version will also be available).

According to Mazda, the CX-8 is 175mm shorter than the CX-9 at 4900mm, as well as 17mm lower (1730mm) and 129mm narrower (1840mm), making it the same width as the CX-5 and therefore more of a long-wheelbase, seven-seat CX-5 than a shrunken CX-9.

Unlike the CX-9, which is powered exclusively by a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine, the CX-8 seven-seater will be available with diesel power.

Mazda has confirmed it will be available in Japan with the company’s 2.2-litre four-cylinder SKYACTIV-D turbo-diesel engine, matched with a six-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission.

The CX-8 has so far only been locked in for sale in Japan – by the end of this year – where the CX-9 is not sold, making it the Japanese car-maker’s flagship SUV in its domestic market.

However, Mazda Australia has made it clear the CX-8 would be a welcome addition to its SUV range, which currently comprises the CX-3, CX-5 and CX-9.

“The CX-8 is a car that is offered in the Japanese market only, however, if it was made available globally it would be something we’d definitely consider,” Mazda Australia spokesman Tony Mee told motoring.com recently, contrary to some reports the CX-8 has been ruled out.

Similarly, Mazda has expressed keen interest in the CX-4 coupe-crossover, which is so far only earmarked for Chinese consumption.