The large 3-row SUV market is becoming increasingly competitive, with European brands focusing on luxury and Chinese manufacturers pushing technology and specification. Mazda has chosen a different approach with its flagship CX-80 PHEV, combining premium Japanese craftsmanship with traditional driving dynamics and plug-in hybrid efficiency.
So, can this Japanese luxury SUV offer the refinement of European rivals while providing a more engaging driving experience than today’s tech-focused Chinese PHEVs? We put the award winning Mazda CX-80 2.5G PHEV AWD through its paces.
Premium Design, Inside and Out
Based on Mazda’s rear-biased Large Architecture platform, the CX-80 is designed around a combination of luxury, practicality and driving involvement. That last part is particularly important for Mazda, a company that also builds the Mazda MX-5.
At nearly 5 metres long and with a 3,120 mm wheelbase, the CX-80 has an imposing road presence. Its extended proportions continue Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy, while the longitudinal engine layout allows for a long bonnet and an athletic silhouette more reminiscent of a premium European SUV than a conventional family MPV.
Inside, the CX-80, which was launched in late 2025, takes a distinctly Japanese approach to luxury. Tan Nappa leather, genuine wood grain trim and detailed Japanese textile stitching give the cabin an upscale character.
Mazda has also avoided putting every function behind a large touchscreen. Physical climate-control dials remain, while the 12.3-inch infotainment system uses a tactile Commander Rotary Dial.
The SUV is available as either a 7-seater or a 6-seater with plush second-row Captain’s Chairs, complete with their own centre console and ventilation. Thanks to the long wheelbase, adults can use the third row for short-to-medium city journeys, although longer trips are better suited to kids or teenagers.
Performance With an Electric Advantage
With its 17.8 kWh battery fully charged, the CX-80 starts in quiet EV Mode. The electric motor provides smooth, silent low-end torque, making the SUV particularly comfortable in stop-and-go city traffic. We managed almost 30km in heavy city traffic, while around 50km of pure-electric range can be extracted in real-world driving.
That makes the CX-80 capable of handling many daily school runs and office commutes without using petrol.
When the accelerator is pressed harder, the 2.5L petrol engine joins the electric motor to produce a combined 327 PS and 500 Nm. Acceleration is prompt and linear, while high-speed highway cruising feels solid and secure.
Power is delivered through an 8-speed automatic gearbox to all four wheels. Under hard acceleration, the crisp gear changes help maintain the mechanical connection that Mazda prioritises.
The chassis is similarly driver-focused. Body roll is kept firmly under control and the suspension feels firm and composed. Despite weighing 2.2 tonnes, the CX-80 handles winding JKR roads with remarkable poise. However, harsh potholes and sharp city speed bumps can feel somewhat rigid through the standard 20-inch alloy wheels.
Charging and Fuel Economy
Regular charging is essential if owners want to maximise the benefits of the CX-80 PHEV. A 7.2 kW AC home wallbox can charge the battery from 0–100% in around 2.5 hours.
For drivers with short daily commutes, fuel consumption can average below 3.0 L/100km. Once the battery is depleted, however, the 2.5L petrol engine has to work harder to move the heavy SUV, with consumption rising closer to 7.5–8.5 L/100km.
Is the CX-80 PHEV Worth It?
The CX-80 PHEV takes a different path from many of its competitors. Rather than becoming a rolling iPad, it focuses on dynamic driving, tactile luxury and elegant engineering.
Chinese rivals such as the Omoda C9 SUV and Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid may offer aggressive price-to-spec propositions, but Mazda targets buyers looking for something different in the large 3-row SUV segment.
For those wanting a luxurious, driver-centric family SUV with European-grade handling, exceptional cabin materials and enough electric range for everyday city driving, the CX-80 PHEV is worth a test drive with the family at a Mazada showroom.
Mazda CX-80 PHEV Specifications
Engine: 4-Cylinder Naturally Aspirated Petrol + Electric Motor
Capacity: 2.5L
Gearbox: 8-Speed Automatic (Multi-Plate Clutch)
Max Power: 327 PS
Max Torque: 500 Nm
Top Speed: 250km/h
0–100 km/h: 6.8 seconds
AC Charging: 7.2 kW (0-100% in ~2.5 hours)
Drivetrain: i-Activ All-Wheel Drive (Rear-Biased)
Battery Size: 17.8 kWh Lithium-Ion
Electric Range: 50–60 km (WLTP Real-World)
Selling Price: RM295,000
