Down the years I have tested a variety of Mazdas, and quality has never failed to impress; I would also have to add style. While Mazda may not be the largest car manufacturer from Japan; in my book they rank amongst the best. Recently I had, on home tarmac so to speak, their CX-80 SUV. I am quite amused by the Americans who put it in the mid-size SUV category, for me it is a large seven seater which delivers high levels of comfort. My test example was in Exclusive-Line trim which is the entry level model to the range and in terms of equipment I certainly did not find it lacking. Providing the power is a diesel engine with the ability to reach 100kph (62mph) in a whisker over eight seconds. With the company’s M hybrid boost 48v system, the reward is outstanding emissions and economy performance. I am not being unkind when I describe the big six cylinder as lazy, it just cruises effortlessly along. With its generous dimensions it was not on good terms with the far too many tight parking spaces that we have in our towns and cities; did the planners decide that we would all be driving Minis?
The list of creature comforts that Mazda have given to the CX-80 is nothing short of impressive; it’s a long list. I mention just a few, a superb Bose entertainment system, the latest Amazon Alexa and the Driver Personalisation Sytem, this is all very clever as it recognises the person behind the wheel and adjusts seat position, mirrors etc and as a bonus sound and climate settings. We buy an SUV for a number of reasons and one principal is practicality and with the CX-80, no one will be disappointed. Fold down the seats and you can transport a variety of items. This is one vehicle which delivered that safe and secure feeling behind the wheel.
The nest step on the electric highway is the Mazda6e which introduces the next evolution of the company’s design philosophy, “Kodo: Soul of Motion”. With smooth, flowing lines and bold features provides the newcomer with a strong refined on road presence; arguably one of the best looking EVs, a relief from too many of the bland designs currently on the market. The low roofline and short-deck coupe silhouette offer a sporty look while keeping the functionality of a five door hatchback. The distinctive design details include a bold lighting signature, frameless doors, and integrated handles, which create a seamless and modern appearance and at the rear, the iconic four-cylinder light design and an electric spoiler add a touch of dynamism.
The interior is inspired by the Japanese concept of “ma” which emphasizes simplicity and open space. Comfort is assured as front and rear passengers enjoy generous legroom, and the panoramic sunroof brings in natural light. The employment of premium materials create a calm, focused atmosphere while the floating centre console and instrument panel enhance the feeling of lightness. Two trim levels; Takumi grade features artificial leather interiors in Warm Beige or Black while Takumi Plus offers premium Tan Nappa and Suede leather and adds an electric roof sunshade. Mazda describe the cockpit as smart and is very much driver-focused, featuring a customizable 14.6 inch touchscreen, a 10.2 inch digital meter, and a 50 inch Augmented Reality Head-Up Display that projects key information, such as navigation and speed, directly into the driver’s line of sight. Full marks to Mazda, I am a great fan of the head up display, and it is a great aid to safety. Advanced voice and gesture controls simplify interactions with features such as climate, navigation, and media systems. Entertainment on the move, courtesy of a high-quality audio through a 14speaker SonyPRO system. Depending on the market, two powertrain options to match different driving preferences; a 68.8 kWh battery providing a range of up to 479km (298m). With 200 kW DC charging, it charges from 10% to 80% in just 22 minutes, and 235km (146m) of range can be added in 15 minutes. The electric motor delivers 190 kW (258 PS). For those who prefer uninterrupted long-distance driving, the 80 kWh battery enables a range of up to 552km (343m) and its electric motor provides 180 kW (245 PS). Both configurations deliver 320 Nm of torque, ensure smooth acceleration and responsive rear-wheel drive performance, with rest to 100kph (62mph) in under 8 seconds, already noted and a top speed of 175kph (109mph).
This is one Mazda I am really looking forward to getting behind the wheel of.
Ian Lynas
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