Positioned between the popular CX-5 compact SUV and the large CX-9, the stylish CX-8 as a right-sized addition to the Mazda SUV family. As expected this features the brand's Kodo design. Compared to the CX-5 which it is based on, it boasts of a longer wheelbase and rear overhang, this allows it to have seating for up to seven in a three row configuration. For 2023, the CX-8 gets some subtle styling updates and more standard tech.

Powering the new CX-8 is a 2.5-liter  Skyactiv-G gasoline engine which puts out 187hp and 252Nm of torque. This motor is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the 7-seater Signature variant, while all-wheel drive is standard on the 6-seater Exclusive variant.