Mazda is gearing up to introduce a new addition to its SUV lineup with the CX-80, a three-row mid-size SUV. The prototype of the CX-80 has been spotted during testing, and it appears to be a shorter and narrower version of the 2024 CX-90. This model is specifically designed to cater to the roads in markets like Japan and Europe. It will serve as the successor to Mazda’s CX-8 in Japan and a few other markets that still receive the older three-row SUV.
The prototype spotted by spy photographers resembles a stretched version of Mazda’s CX-60, a two-row compact crossover that is currently available for sale in markets outside of the United States. Based on its exterior appearance, it is expected that the CX-80 will be longer than the CX-60’s 186.8 inches but shorter than the CX-90’s 199.4 inches. Although there are no images of the interior yet, it is likely that the CX-80’s interior design will be similar to that of the CX-60 and CX-90.
The CX-80 will share its platform with the CX-60 and CX-90. Mazda has developed a rear-wheel-drive platform specifically for its premium Large Product Group, and the CX-80 will be one of the vehicles that utilize this platform. In the future, the platform will also be used for a two-row crossover for the U.S. market, which will be named the CX-70. This unified platform allows for efficient development and production of a variety of models.
The rear-wheel-drive platform is designed to accommodate internal combustion engines with longitudinal mounting. Additionally, the platform is equipped with a double wishbone suspension system at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, providing excellent handling and ride comfort. These features contribute to Mazda’s reputation for building vehicles with a sporty driving experience.
While Mazda has not released official specifications for the CX-80, it is expected that the powertrain options will be similar to those offered in the CX-60. This means there will likely be gas, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options available. The CX-60’s gas and diesel engines are 3.3-liter turbo-6 designs, while the plug-in hybrid variant combines a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine with an electric motor. This diverse range of powertrain options allows customers to choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences.
The CX-80 is set to make its debut later this year, and it is anticipated that the CX-70, the two-row crossover for the U.S. market, will also be introduced around the same time. Mazda enthusiasts and SUV enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the arrival of these new models, as they expand Mazda’s SUV lineup and offer more choices to consumers.
In conclusion, Mazda is expanding its SUV lineup with the introduction of the CX-80, a three-row mid-size SUV. This model is expected to be a shorter and narrower version of the CX-90, making it suitable for markets like Japan and Europe. Built on Mazda’s newly developed rear-wheel-drive platform, the CX-80 will share similarities with the CX-60 and CX-90. It will likely offer a range of powertrain options, including gas, diesel, and plug-in hybrid. Both the CX-80 and the CX-70, a two-row crossover for the U.S. market, are set to debut later this year, exciting Mazda fans around the world.