Bermaz Auto, the official distributor for Mazda cars in Malaysia, is set to introduce the CX-8, updated CX-5turbo, and the CX-30. According to a report by The Edge, all three SUVs will be locally assembled, and the move will see the company invest around RM200 million to upgrade its production facility in Kulim, bumping capacity from 30,000 units to 50,000 units anually.
Let’s start off with the CX-5. The handsome SUV is finally available with a turbocharged 2.5 litre SkyActiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 230 PS at 4,250 rpm and 420 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm. A six-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission is standard, which routes power either to the front (2WD) or all four wheels (AWD). Average fuel consumption is rated at 12.6 km per litre (based on WLTP protocols).
The updated CX-5 also comes with G-Vectoring Control (GVC), nighttime pedestrian detection function for the Advanced Smart City Braking Support (SCBS) system, a 360-degree camera option, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and new tweeters for the standard sound system. Extras include 19-inch alloys with dark gloss finish, Deep Red Nappa leather upholstery, real woodgrain interior trimmings, frameless rear-view mirror, and seven-inch TFT LCD instrument display and white LED ambient lighting.
In the case of the CX-30, it’s unknown exactly which powertrain option will be offered for our market, but the car is available with the automaker’s latest range of engines, including the advanced SkyActiv-X unit. However, expect the line-up to comprise of the regular naturally-aspirated petrol engines. After all, the CX-30 is positioned to fill the gap between the CX-3 and CX-5.
The Mazda CX-8, on the other hand, was previewed at the Malaysia Autoshow recently. At the time, we were told that it could arrive either as a six- or seven-seater model, with engine options ranging from the 2.2 litre SkyActiv-D four-cylinder turbodiesel (188 hp, 450 Nm) and the 2.5 litre SkyActiv-G naturally aspirated petrol engine (192 hp, 257 Nm). A six-speed automatic is standard.
The CX-8 measures 4,900 mm long with a wheelbase of 2,930 mm, making it 350 mm and 230 mm longer than the CX-5 on those counts respectively. Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloys, automatic LED headlamps, LED fog lamps, LED tail lights, keyless entry and start, triple-zone climate control, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, MZD Connect infotainment, six airbags, Dynamic Stability Control, ABS, EBD and brake assist, traction control and Hill Launch Assist.
The base seven-seater version will get fabric upholstery, whereas the range-topping models will get leather upholstery and captain chairs (with a centre console armrest). Do keep in mind that these specifications are tentative, and have yet to be confirmed. So, which one tickles your fancy?
-paultan