You’re Looking At The Refreshed 2021 Mazda CX-8

Apart from the CX-5, Mazda Motor Corporation has also updated the CX-8 three-row SUV for the 2021 model year in Japan. The new 2021 Mazda CX-8 gets a number of exterior changes along with a new infotainment system and a more powerful diesel engine.

Starting with the exterior, the 2021 Mazda CX-8 features a slightly revised front end design, at least on the higher variants. These upgrades include a new grille that now features a mesh pattern and the addition of satin silver trimmings on the lower front bumper. New 19-inch wheels are also offered on the top trim CX-8 Exclusive Mode variant in Japan, while a new hands-free function for the powered tailgate has been added on select CX-8 variants. Lastly, Mazda also introduced a new color in the 2021 CX-8 called Platinum Quartz Metallic. We won’t be surprised if this elegant paint carries over to other Mazdas as well.

As for the interior, the most noticeable upgrade is the addition of a new 10.25-inch screen that uses the automaker’s second-generation Mazda Connect infotainment system. It’s basically the same interface found in the all-new Mazda 3 and CX-30 and it of course supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring. There’s also a new wireless charging pad and a wider range of interior colors across most variants. Lastly, Mazda has also added quilting for the Nappa Leather seats on the higher trims of the CX-8 for an even more premium interior feel.

The 2021 Mazda CX-8 also gets the same powertrain upgrades as the CX-5 in Japan. The Skyactiv-D diesel engine has also been upgraded to 200 hp, which is an increase of 10 hp. Torque remains the same at 450 Nm. Apart from the more powerful diesel engine, all models (regardless of powertrain) benefit from a slightly tweaked 6-speed automatic transmission for better acceleration and response. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, the Mazda CX-8 is powered solely by a 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G that produces 190 hp and 252 Nm of torque.

Just like the CX-5, the Philippine-market CX-8 is also assembled in Malaysia, which means it might take a while before these updates reach our market.