Seventh CX-badged SUV to join Mazda line-up

MAZDA Australia has confirmed that its new three-row CX-80 SUV will join the local line-up alongside the forthcoming CX-60 and CX-90 as part of what it calls a growing range of premium products.

As the third new model in the Mazda Large Product family, the yet-to-be-unveiled CX-80 will replace the long-serving CX-9 as Mazda’s full-size seven-seat model, likely offering both rear- and all-wheel drive formats with the choice of mild-hybrid diesel and petrol power, as well as the likelihood of a plug-in hybrid option.

Mazda has yet to confirm arrival timing, specification or pricing for its newest SUV, but says the model will play an important role in the growth of its CX range of models.

The Japanese importer will soon offer seven ‘CX’ branded models locally, including the CX-3, CX-30, CX-5, CX-8, CX-60, CX-80 and CX-90, with the CX-9 to be retired at the end of 2023. There is also the possibility that the CX-70 could join the range in time, possibly as a replacement for the recently updated CX-8.

“The first-ever Mazda CX-80 will play a key part in growing our premium product portfolio by distilling the exemplary qualities of the CX-60 and CX-90, while offering our customers an even broader choice of options, as we continue to expand, enrich and diversify the Mazda range,” said Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi.

Were the CX-80 to adopt the same driveline offerings found in the recently announced CX-60, it would feature a turbocharged 3.3-litre six-cylinder petrol with 48V mild hybrid assistance and making 209kW and 450Nm, and a turbocharged 3.3-litre six-cylinder diesel with 48V mild hybrid assistance making 187kW and 500Nm.

There is even the possibility the model could offer the 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol and plug-in hybrid unit found in the smaller CX-60, giving Australian buyers a 241kW and 500Nm option backed by a 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

Whichever option buyers choose, the CX-80 is certain to outperform the current CX-9, in which a turbocharged 2.5-litre petrol unit makes 170kW and 420Nm.

The CX-9 range is currently available from $47,600 plus on-road costs.

“The Mazda CX-9 became an instant hit and, more broadly, helped to lay the foundations for our Mazda Premium approach,” said Mazda Australia marketing director Alastair Doak.

“It has left an indelible mark in our line-up and continues to be universally loved for its quality, versatility, timeless design and signature driving dynamics.

“The first-ever CX-80 is set to take these reins, along with the CX-60 and CX-90, ensuring the the widely lauded qualities of the CX-9 are further refined and advanced as part of Mazda’s latest cutting-edge model introductions.”

Mr Doak said Mazda Australia will offer more information on the CX-80, including introductory dates, later in the year.