Mazda teases CX-8 – their first ever 3-row crossover in Japan

Following the updated local lineup of Mazda, the Japanese marque now teases an all-new, first generation crossover that is set to be offered in their hometown. This is the first time Mazda is going to offer a 7-seater crossover in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Dubbed as the CX-8, its size is somewhere between the CX-5 and CX-9 (obviously), but closer to the latter. 

Exact measurements reveal that the CX-8 will have the same 2,930mm wheelbase as the CX-9. Although its overall length is shorter by 175mm, it’s considerably taller by 14mm than the premium SUV. 

On the other hand, the width of the CX-8 measures 1,840 mm, which is the same with the CX-5. You know what else does it share with the compact crossover? The 2.2L SKYACTIV-D engine.

With its slightly smaller body compared to the CX-9 and a similar engine with the CX-5, why does Japan need the CX-8? 

Aside from price point and other factors (that we’ll need a whole day to explain), the CX-8 could be Japan’s version of a 3-row Mazda crossover, which won’t be available at other markets...for now.

It has the looks, performance and high-end feel customers expect from a Mazda, and even adults can sit comfortably in the third row," said Mazda's Representative Director, President, and CEO Masamichi Kogai.

As to its design, Mazda claims that the CX-8 will bear the latest KODO - Soul of Motion and will house the full suite of SKYACTIV technologies. With this said, the new crossover is bound to be Japan's flagship model in its lineup of SUVs.

According to Mazda, the new CX-8 crossover will be out in the Japanese market before the end of 2017.