As reported earlier, Mazda Motor Corporation will be introducing its first new-generation model crossover SUV for its home-market available in six or seven-seater configuration.
Today, the company has revealed its first official exterior photo of the CX-8, which will serve as the flagship of the brand’s line-up in Japan.
Based on this single side profile image, the CX-8 appears to feature similar styling cues as the CX-9 but if we were to be honest, it is very difficult to tell this apart from the CX-9. However, the designers expressed that they have further refined the KODO-Soul of Motion design theme to create an edgy and timeless look that will continue to excite customers for many years to come.
Mazda suggests that “adults can sit comfortably in the third row” of the CX-8 and since it shares the same 2,930 mm wheelbase as the CX-9, we can expect similar, if not better third row comfort. Great attention to detail has been paid to create a more upmarket cabin with what seems like a dedicated arm rest console with storage compartments and cup holders much like the ones you’d find in a BMW 7-series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Focus will also be concentrated on creating a look of class and quality, alongside careful consideration of colours and materials befitting a flagship SUV.
Powered by Mazda’s new-generation 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D clean diesel engine which will be mated to a SkyActiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, the new CX-8 will go on sale in Japan by end-2017.
