Mazda goes large with its new flagship, which features three rows of seats and a generous specification. Ahead of its showcase at this week’s GBFE, John Challen tests out the plush SUV.

WHAT IS IT? Plug-in hybrid SUV  HOW MUCH? From £49,780  Economy: 34.9mpg  Emissions: 35-36g/km

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Bucking one of the recent trends in the motoring world – the introduction of smaller EVs – Mazda has refreshed its ‘large product group’, with a revised CX-60 and also the company’s new flagship, the CX-80.

The CX-80 was introduced before the most recent announcements regarding the ZEV mandate, but there is a chance it will be one of the beneficiaries of the relaxation of the rules and extended life of hybrids. There’s a petrol PHEV version – which is what we’re most interested in here – alongside a six-cylinder diesel (remember them?). The PHEV powertrain consists of a 2.5-litre engine, electric motor and 17.8kWh battery, which, combined with the electric motor, produces 327hp and 500Nm of torque. The electric-only range is 38 miles.

At the launch, the Japanese company was realistic about numbers, saying that while it was a big launch, the volumes would be modest. “But any segment we’re not competing in represents an opportunity,” reasoned Jeremy Thompson, Mazda UK’s MD. “The CX-60 has been strong in fleet and we hope that the CX-80 – as well as the refreshed CX-60 – will continue that trend.”

Highlights of the new big Mazda include three rows of seats (although things get a little bit cramped in the rear row), high-quality materials used throughout the cabin and five grades to choose from: Exclusive-Line; Homura, Takumi, Homura Plus and Takumi Plus. If that wasn’t enough choice, there is the opportunity to optimise seat layouts. For example, UK cars get the option of three variations for the middle row of seats: standard three-person bench; two captain’s seats with a walk-through in the middle, or the same two seats with a centre console. It’s an innovative approach, and one that might attract people who want a layout they can’t find elsewhere.

Overall, CX-80 is taller (by 26mm) and has a longer wheelbase (by 250mm) than the CX-60, which means extra passenger comfort. With the third-row seats in position, there’s 258 litres of boot space, including underfloor storage, while with them folded, there are 687 litres to fill.

Specification is generous, even on the base Exclusive-Line, while the quality of materials increases as you move through the five grades. All models feature the Mazda Connect multimedia system with 12.3-inch central display screen and windscreen-projected colour head-up display. Moving through the range, components get bigger and more impressive (specifically alloys, audio system and safety technologies). The CX-80 also features Alexa in-car voice control across the range, which can take care of music, air-conditioning, navigation and third-party apps such as Spotify.

The CX-80 faces tough competition from established players in the market, but it’s an impressive entry at this level. The PHEV system works well and there’s a seamless shift between the two power sources. The driving experience is decent, helped by the CX-80 sitting on the same platform as the CX-60. Decent specification and competitive pricing make it a tempting proposition.

The Lowdown

Mazda CX-80 PHEV

Key fleet model: Homura Plus

Thumbs up: Performance, hybrid system, interior, decent base spec

Thumbs down: Fiddly infotainment, limited space in third-row seats

Seven-word summary: Big Mazda ticks a lot of boxes

Also consider: Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento, Škoda Kodiaq

Mazda will showcase its CX-80 flagship at the 2025 Great British Fleet Event this Thursday 8 May in Milton Keynes, demonstrating the model’s craftmanship and optimum comfort and space. Attendees will also be able to speak to the Mazda fleet team about the brand’s award-winning full line-up, from the Mazda2 Hybrid through to the CX-60 and the CX-80. Full event details are here.