Driving the relatively new Mazda CX-80 all-wheel drive SUV, the seven-seat
version of Mazda’s five-seat CX-60, I’m driving the entry CX-80 Pure, the most
affordable of the 10-model range at $54,950 plus on-road costs – the Pure has one
engine choice a 3.3-litre turbo petrol six-cylinder with 48-volt mild hybrid
assistance linked to an 8-speed automatic. The CX-80 replaces the long standing
CX-8 and CX-9 models. Certainly, its seven-passenger versatility is excellent, a
great family vehicle, nicely specified, spacious in the second row with five adults,
the turbo-petrol engine impressive with strong mid-range performance, but as a
rather heavy all-wheel drive a little thirsty on a strong throttle, I managed 11.8
L/100km, and thankfully it runs on 91 grade petrol. Suspension tune streets ahead
of the CX-60 I drove early last year which, after much criticism, Mazda Australia
did a re-work on later and the ride quality and handling on this new CX-80 is
vastly better. Gear shift quality on the early CX-60 has also been addressed and
obviously has carried over to the CX-80. A few gripes, Mazda prices have crept
up, while all models only get a tyre repair kit in lieu of a spare wheel. Warranty;
five-years/unlimited km. I’m David Berthon

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