Mazda CX-8 2018 pricing confirmed

Mazda Australia has outlined pricing for its all-new CX-8, with the diesel-only seven-seat SUV due to arrive in local dealerships next month in three grades; Sport FWD, Sport AWD and the range-topping Asaki AWD.

The entry-level Sport variant will check in at $42,490 plus on-road costs in front-wheel drive guise, with the all-wheel drive version commanding a $4000 premium at $46,490.

Pricing leaps significantly for the third and final variant, with the range-topping Asaki pegged at $61,490 before on-road costs.

From launch, the CX-8 seven-seater will be powered exclusively by Mazda's 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D diesel engine – a four-cylinder turbocharged unit producing 140kW and 450Nm.

For comparison, close rivals including the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento are priced and specced similarly to the new CX-8, but offer a choice of petrol and diesel powertrains.

Mazda Australia has said that the CX-8 will feature a strong range of 'i-ActiveSense' safety and driver-assist technologies as standard across the range.

Diesel versions of the Hyundai Santa Fe start at $44,850 plus on-roads for the CRDi Active 4WD, makings its way to $57,090 for the full-fruit Highlander CRDi, although a new-generation model launches later this month.

Meanwhile, the entry-level diesel Kia Sorento Si AWD enters the market at $45,490 and maxes out at $58,990 in GT-Line trim.

Mazda customers looking for a petrol option will be directed to the brand's CX-9 large SUV which is motivated by a 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G turbocharged four that produces 170kW/420Nm.

The CX-9 currently retails from $43,890 for the base Sport FWD and hits $64,790 for the flagship Azami AWD.

At first glance, the CX-8 could easily be mistaken for the CX-9, but the new model is narrower and shorter.

As reported previously, it measures 4900mm long, 1840mm wide and 1730mm high, as opposed to the respective 5075mm, 1969mm and 1747mm dimensions of its sibling.

While exact specifications have yet to be confirmed, Mazda Australia has said that the CX-8 will feature a strong range of 'i-ActiveSense' safety and driver-assist technologies as standard across the range.

Precise specification details for the Mazda CX-8 will be revealed closer to its launch in July.

2018 Mazda CX-8 list pricing

Mazda CX-8 Sport FWD – automatic – $42,490
Mazda CX-8 Sport AWD – automatic – $46,490
Mazda CX-8 Asaki AWD – automatic – $61,490

Which better suits your needs, the petrol-powered CX-9 or the diesel-only CX-8? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.