All-new SUV on the way

Mazda Motors of New Zealand has announced the marque’s first CX-80 will start arriving in showrooms from November.

The three-row SUV is the third model in New Zealand to launch from Mazda’s Large Architecture platform, which was first seen on the CX-60 and CX-90 models.

There are two powertrain options for the CX-80, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) featuring a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder e-Skyactiv G petrol unit with electrification technology, and a straight-six 3.3-litre e-Skyactiv G petrol unit incorporating M Hybrid Boost, Mazda’s 48V mild hybrid system.

The PHEV option combines a petrol engine with a 129kW electric motor and a 17.8kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery, which delivers a total output of 241kW and torque of 500Nm. When running on electric motor power alone, this variant offers about 60km of driving range.

As for the mild hybrid, its output is 209kW and it can produce 450Nm of torque.

The powertrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ All-Wheel Drive system. Mazda Intelligent Drive Select offers four drive modes, plus there’s EV mode for the PHEV, and both models have a 2,500kg braked tow rating.

Two model grades are available in the CX-80 range, including the SP, which can be applied to either variant and represents a sports-inspired design theme and enhanced equipment levels.

Highlights of the CX-80 SP include leather seat trim, front-seat heating, black metallic 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a power-operated tailgate and a 360 View Monitor all fitted as standard.

Then there’s the CX-80 Homura, which builds on the SP equipment level by also offering features such as a panoramic glass sunroof, adaptive LED headlights, heated rear seats and a Bose audio system. Homura is only available with the PHEV.

The CX-80’s second-row bench has a sliding range of 120mm and the third-row seating has been designed to accommodate passengers up to 1.7m tall.

Pricing details of the Mazda CX-80 will be announced closer to launch.