2025 Mazda CX-80 – A Premium Seven-Seater That Dares to Be Different

Mazda’s latest addition to its SUV lineup, the 2025 CX-80, is a bold move in a segment dominated by familiar names like the Volvo XC90, Audi Q7, and Land Rover Discovery. But instead of mimicking its rivals, the CX-80 carves its own path—offering a blend of old-school charm, modern engineering, and understated luxury. It’s a vehicle that feels like a throwback in all the right ways, while still embracing the demands of today’s drivers.

🚙 Design: Graceful Toughness in Motion

Mazda calls its design language “graceful toughness,” and the CX-80 embodies that philosophy with elegance. It’s essentially a stretched version of the CX-60, with an extended wheelbase of 3120mm—250mm longer than its sibling—to accommodate a third row of seats. The elongated body, long nose, and extended glasshouse give it a stately presence, while the Artisan Red paint option adds a touch of sophistication2.

Inside, the CX-80 offers a choice between six- and seven-seat configurations. The six-seater layout, with captain’s chairs in the second row, is particularly luxurious, offering ample space and comfort for long journeys. The interior fit and finish are top-notch, with premium materials and a clean, uncluttered dashboard that favors physical buttons over touch-sensitive controls.

🛠️ Powertrain: Diesel Lives On

In a market increasingly dominated by hybrids and electrics, Mazda’s decision to offer a six-cylinder diesel engine feels refreshingly rebellious. The 3.3-liter turbocharged diesel produces 251 bhp and a hefty 406 lb-ft of torque, delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. It’s a silky-smooth engine that excels at highway cruising and offers impressive fuel economy—around 40 mpg in mixed driving conditions.

However, the gearbox is a bit of a letdown. It’s hesitant to respond, especially during quick acceleration or when navigating junctions. There’s a noticeable lag between throttle input and gear changes, which can make urban driving feel less fluid than expected.

Mazda also offers petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, catering to a broader range of buyers. The PHEV delivers up to 65 km of electric-only range, making it suitable for short commutes and city driving.

🧠 Technology: Function Over Flash

The CX-80’s tech suite is a mix of modern features and traditional controls. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen isn’t touch-operated—instead, it relies on a rotary controller. While this may seem outdated, it quickly becomes intuitive and reduces distractions while driving.

Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera. The dashboard retains physical buttons for climate control, a welcome change for those tired of navigating touchscreens for basic functions.

🪑 Comfort and Practicality

Mazda has prioritized comfort in the CX-80, especially in the six-seat configuration. The second-row captain’s chairs offer a premium experience, while the third row is surprisingly usable thanks to the extended wheelbase. The ride quality is generally smooth, though the suspension can feel firm over uneven surfaces—especially with the standard 20-inch wheels3.

Boot space varies depending on the seating configuration, but it’s generous enough for family outings, luggage, and even a dog or two. The CX-80 also boasts a braked towing capacity of up to 2,500 kg, making it suitable for caravans and trailers.

⚠️ Recall Alert

It’s worth noting that the CX-80, along with its CX-70 and CX-90 siblings, has been subject to a recall in Australia due to a software fault affecting the fuel gauge. The issue could lead to incorrect fuel level readings, potentially causing the vehicle to run out of fuel unexpectedly. Mazda is addressing the problem with a software update to the Body Control Module.

💰 Pricing and Value

In Europe, the CX-80 is priced between £49,615 and £57,115, positioning it as a premium offering without reaching the stratospheric prices of its German rivals. It’s tens of thousands cheaper than the XC90 or Q7, yet offers comparable space, refinement, and features. Mazda seems to be targeting buyers who want a premium experience without the badge snobbery—a niche once occupied by brands like Saab.

🏁 Final Verdict

The 2025 Mazda CX-80 is a compelling alternative in the crowded seven-seater SUV market. It’s not perfect—the gearbox could be sharper, and the ride could be softer—but it excels in areas that matter: comfort, design, and driving dynamics. It’s a car for those who appreciate subtlety over flash, substance over gimmicks.

If you’re looking for a family SUV that dares to be different, the CX-80 might just be your ideal match. It’s a reminder that sometimes, going against the grain is the best way to stand out.