New Models
New Models

2021 Mazda CX-5 and CX-8 updated for Japan, no word on Australian plans

The two popular SUVs from Mazda have received upgrades overseas, with extra power and minor facelifts.


The 2021 Mazda CX-5 and CX-8 have been updated in Japan, with a raft of small changes applied across the two models.

Firstly, Mazda has given the 2.2-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder engine in the CX-5 gets a minor power bump, from 140kW to 147kW. Torque is unchanged at 450Nm, but throttle response and transmission changes are said to be improved over the current model.

While the petrol engines in both the CX-5 and CX-8 remain unchanged, the powertrains do benefit from the improvements to the diesel's six-speed automatic transmission, with more responsive programming which helps off-the-line performance and in overtaking situations.

Above: 2021 Mazda CX-5 interior (Japanese model). Top: The facelifted 2021 Mazda CX-8 (Japanese model).

Inside, the current 8.0-inch infotainment system has been upgraded to the latest 'Mazda Connect' interface, available in either 8.8-inch or 10.25-inch display sizes, depending on the model variant chosen. The system was already introduced on US-market CX-5 models back in August 2020, as reported by CarAdvice.

A faster processor means start-up times are quicker, with the new infotainment system offering improved image and sound quality for occupants, as well as more accurate satellite navigation and 360-degree view cameras as standard.

The CX-8 also gains new quilted leather upholstery, wireless charging capability for smartphones, and a hands-free power tailgate, operated with a foot sensor under the rear bumper.

Above: 2021 Mazda CX-8 interior (Japanese model).

On the outside, higher grades of the CX-8 get a striking new grille design, as well as a number of visual changes across the exterior, such as a revised front bumper and tail-pipes.

Mazda Australia wouldn't confirm or deny whether the changes would be coming to Australia, but it's likely many of these updates will make their way to local market vehicles in the coming months.


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Ben Zachariah

Ben Zachariah is an experienced writer and motoring journalist from Melbourne, having worked in the automotive industry for more than two decades. Ben began writing professionally more than 15 years ago and was previously an interstate truck driver. He completed his MBA in Finance in early 2021 and is considered an expert on classic car investment.

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