With a plethora of seven-seat SUV options on the market today, Mazda has implemented a rather intricate system for navigating its CX lineup, leaving many, this writer included, feeling somewhat bewildered.
That said, the Mazda CX-80 P50e Azami plug-in hybrid (PHEV) stands out as a potential alternative for families seeking an elegant, classy, and sophisticated SUV, without the hefty price tag associated with European models.
The Mazda design team claims this car represents “graceful toughness”, but brute force isn’t the first thing that comes to mind with the CX-80. It’s also massive, at just under 5.0m long, 2m wide and a little over 1.7m high.
Despite its large dimensions, it’s undeniably attractive. Leaning towards a more conservative aesthetic, it seems better suited for an older, more mature audience looking for a vehicle that’s understated yet refined.
In the top-tier Azami model, you’ll find more flair than its lesser siblings, with body-coloured wheel arches, 20-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents around the grille, and the signature Mazda nose finished in piano black.
It also features LED front headlights and rear tail lights, chrome roof rails, and thankfully, Mazda hasn’t slapped a fake diffuser or exhausts on the CX-80; instead, they’ve finished the rear with a traditional rear bumper.
Inside, it feels a little like a previous generation BMW, which isn’t a criticism; the influence of the German manufacturer is clearly visible in the CX-80, along with the exceptional build quality. It’s a more traditional interior design.
It’s refreshing to see a manufacturer invest time and effort into providing dedicated spots for buttons, switches, and knobs while still incorporating modern screens into the overall look and feel of the interior. The result is contemporary yet sophisticated.
As this is the Azami model, you can expect premium features such as a leather dashboard panel paired with a soft top section, electronically adjustable (up front) Nappa leather seats, and a 12-speaker Bose sound system.
There’s seat memory for the driver (along with lumbar support, and heating and ventilation for both front pews), a powered steering column, panoramic sunroof and a heated steering wheel. There’s also plenty of tech.
The CX-80 features two 12.3-inch displays, one for the driver and one for the infotainment system. The former is clear and effectively presents all the relevant information, with a head-up display helping keep your eyes on the road.
The infotainment screen is quick, responsive, and user-friendly, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s worth noting that the screen is only touch-sensitive when smartphone mirroring is activated.
If you’re in the native environment, you’ll need to use the swivel wheel to navigate the infotainment functions. You’ll find a wireless phone charger and 12-volt outlet in the centre console. There are also two USB-C ports.
In terms of storage, aside from the underwhelming center console compartment, the CX-80 provides a generous amount of options. It includes two well-sized cupholders, reasonably roomy door bins, and a spacious glove box.
As you step into the second row, you’ll be genuinely impressed by the amount of space available in the back seat. Out of all the seven-seat SUVs we’ve tested, the CX-80 ranks among the most spacious, offering ample head and legroom.
You can also tuck your feet under the seat in front since it’s elevated off the floor. The second row features tilt and slide adjustments, and both outboard seats come with heating options. That’s alongside two USB-C ports and climate controls.
There are large door bins, two cup holders in the center armrest, and integrated blinds to help shield against the sun when traveling with little ones. For securing a baby seat, the outboard seats are equipped with ISOFIX anchors and top tether points.
The third row is just as impressive. It offers decent space as long as the second row passengers are willing to slide their seats forward. If taller passengers are occupying the latter, adult comfort in back might be compromised on longer trips.
That said, kids will find plenty of room back there, complete with USB-C charging ports, air vents, cup holders, and top tether points. For cargo, you have 268-litres of boot capacity with the third row up, plus clever storage underneath the retractable parcel shelf.
With the third row down, you get 566-litres, and if you fold everything, that expands to just under 2,000-litres. Additionally, you’ll find a 12-volt outlet alongside an actual power point for charging household items. It also boasts a braked towing capacity of 2,500kg.
The CX-80 doesn’t fall short on the safety front either, with adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking (AEB), which encompasses junction assist, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and reverse AEB.
Additionally, blind-spot monitoring, driver attention monitoring, lane keep, front cross-traffic alert, rear cross-traffic assist and safe exit warning all feature, as does a surround-view camera, complemented by front and rear parking sensors.
Other essential features include a tyre pressure monitoring system and traffic sign recognition. What lies beneath the CX-80 P50e bonnet is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, enhanced by an electric motor.
Together, they produce a robust 241kW and 500Nm, channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a rear-wheel biased all-wheel drive system. The combination is good but feels less compelling than the captivating straight-six turbo engines in its line-up.
While this powertrain can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in about seven seconds and boasts respectable power and torque, it lacks the engagement of its six-cylinder counterpart, and the engine noise is reminiscent of strangling a squirrel.
If you’re not overly concerned about driving pleasure and are looking for an affordable BMW alternative, the CX-80 offers a great package. With similar engine options, interior layout, and AWD system, it does evoke a modern reincarnation of a budget-friendly X5.
The plug-in hybrid version performs admirably, particularly when it comes to fuel efficiency, delivering an impressive 5.5-litres/100km and just under 65km of EV-only range. Charging is however limited to 7.2kW via a normal power point.
As a daily driver, the CX-80 excels as a practical seven-seat family SUV. It’s comfortable overall, although the suspension could use some refinement, while the Nappa leather seats are plush and supportive.
Visibility is excellent, with minimal blind spots; the only issue arises from the rear window when there are passengers in the third row. A digital rearview mirror would be a beneficial addition.
Thankfully, Mazda has avoided overwhelming us with an excessive number of drive modes; you get Normal, Sport, EV, and some off road options. Sport is the standout, and makes the CX-80 feel surprisingly agile.
The steering is nicely weighted, although you might notice some body roll if you push it too hard in corners, which is expected given its size. It’s generally hard to fault, though its primary drawback is its transmission, which can be unpredictable.
We noticed it likes shifting gears seemingly at its own discretion. When accelerating, the lag in gear changes feels like the transmission is on a break. Fortunately, this issue can be mostly resolved by keeping the car in Sport mode.
Priced at $94,331 drive away, and with its elegant design and family-friendly features, the 2025 Mazda CX-80 P50e Azami delivers exceptional value while maintaining its reputation for reliability.
As a family car, it’s bound to face the challenges of everyday life, from rough shopping cart encounters to natural wear and tear, and to be honest, if you’ve got a family, it makes more sense than a fully fledged M model, or a Mercedes-AMG or Audi S offering.
You can find out more by visiting the Mazda Australia website, or talking to your local dealership. To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One. To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was supplied by Mazda Australia for independent review purposes.
