2025 Mazda CX-80 Review – Mazda’s Biggest, Boldest SUV Yet!
Mazda want to do it all. They want a big new flagship luxury SUV. That’s also hugely practical and a versatile seven-seater. Plus, thrifty economy and the ability to emit slightly tanked-up butterflies at most. It also needs to be relatively punchy when it comes to performance and can prove a tasty steer despite it breadth and width. Meet the new 2025 Mazda CX-80, the brand’s new top dog three-row SUV for Europe. This isn’t just Mazda’s largest and most spacious SUV – it’s a bold statement aimed at premium rivals like the BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Land Rover Discovery. But does it have what it takes to challenge the establishment?
Sitting at the top of Mazda’s SUV range, the CX-80 offers a choice of six- and seven-seat configurations, catering to families and buyers who need flexibility. It builds on the CX-60, but with a longer 250mm wheelbase and a taller stance, which translates to significantly more cabin space and improved practicality.
Mazda’s signature Kodo design language gives the CX-80 a striking presence, blending sculpted elegance with an imposing stance. Compared to the CX-60, it has extended side windows with thicker surrounds that emphasise the longer profile and the inclusion of a third row of seats. The front end features a bold grille flanked by slim LED headlights. Two new colours debut on this model, Artisan Red and Melting Copper (I’m just gonna call it “brown”!), joining Mazda’s existing palette of sophisticated metallic shades. Adaptive LED headlights, large alloy wheels and a hands-free power tailgate further enhance its high-end appeal.
The CX-80 is available with two engine choices, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system. The first is a 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid that pairs a four-cylinder petrol engine with a 129kW electric motor and a 17.8kWh battery, producing a combined 327bhp and 500Nm of torque.
This setup allows for strong acceleration, with a 0-62mph time of just 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 121mph, yet still a combined fuel economy of 176.6mpg and CO₂ emissions as low as 36g/km. Plus an EV-only range of 38 miles.
The second option is Mazda’s latest 3.3-litre inline-six diesel, delivering 254bhp and 550Nm of torque. This unit is supported by a 48V mild hybrid system.
Mazda’s Mi-Drive system allows the driver to switch between different driving modes, including Sport for sharper throttle response, Off-Road for enhanced traction, and Towing mode for better stability when pulling a trailer.
The CX-80 is available in five trim levels, each offering an impressive level of standard equipment. The entry-level Exclusive-Line starts at £49,670 and includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Mazda Connect, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a three-zone climate control system. The Homura model, priced from £52,820, steps up the luxury with 20-inch black alloy wheels, black Nappa leather seats, ventilated front seats, and heated outer second-row seats.
The model tested was the Homura Plus, at £55,470, which adds a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree parking camera, and adaptive LED headlights. The Takumi trim, priced at £53,770, focuses on premium materials with white Nappa leather, maple wood trim, and subtle styling enhancements. At the top of the range, the Takumi Plus, priced at £56,420, comes fully loaded with a luxurious second-row centre console and ventilated Captain’s Chairs as an option.
The CX-80 offers generous luggage capacity, making it a highly practical choice for families. With all three rows in place, the boot holds 258 litres, which is respectable for a seven-seater; fold the seats and it goes up to 687 litres and with both rear rows lowered it’s a massive 1,971 litres. PHEV models also feature a 1500W AC socket in the boot, allowing for the charging of small appliances.
Inside there are high-quality materials including Nappa leather upholstery, maple wood trims, and intricate stitching techniques. Second-row passengers are well catered for, with independent climate control, USB-C charging ports, and reclining seatbacks for added comfort. Buyers can opt for a six-seat layout featuring Captain’s Chairs in the second row. Third-row passengers also get their own USB-C ports, cupholders, and air vents to ensure a pleasant journey. You can put adults in the third row, just about, but they’re best for children.
The CX-80 comes equipped with a host of advanced technology features. The infotainment system is centred around a 12.3-inch screen, with Amazon Alexa integration allowing for voice control of navigation, music, and vehicle settings. The driver benefits from a head-up plus there’s wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, while higher trims offer a Bose 12-speaker surround sound system for a more immersive audio experience.
Safety technology is comprehensive, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition included as standard. The 360-degree camera system, available on higher trims, enhances visibility when manoeuvring in tight spaces.
Mazda has always been known for prioritising driver engagement, and the CX-80 carries that philosophy into the large SUV segment. Despite its size, it feels impressively composed on the road, with precise steering and is surprisingly engaging to peddle. The rear-biased all-wheel-drive system gives it a keen edge.
The electric motor adds instant response, while transition between petrol and electric power is smooth, and the eight-speed automatic gearbox shifts cleanly, and it’s definitely one of the quicker SUVs in this segment.
Ride comfort is excellent as the suspension absorbs road imperfections well, yet the CX-80 doesn’t feel overly soft or disconnected from the road. It remains composed through bends, avoiding the wallowing body roll that often plagues large SUVs.
Mazda wants to do it all, has it succeeded? Pretty much. There’s everything you’d expect and need from a large family-friendly SUV, lined in luxury, packed with tech with enough oomph to satisfy the keen driver. Mazda are masters at the latter. If you want big, comfy and fun, this should go on your shortlist.
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