Driving the relatively new Mazda CX-80 all-wheel drive SUV, the seven-seat version of Mazda’s five-seat CX-60, I’m driving the entry CX-80 Pure, the most affordable of the 10-model range at $54,950 plus on-road costs – the Pure has one engine choice a 3.3-litre turbo petrol six-cylinder with 48-volt mild hybrid assistance linked to an 8-speed automatic. The CX-80 replaces the long standing CX-8 and CX-9 models. Certainly, its seven-passenger versatility is excellent, a great family vehicle, nicely specified, spacious in the second row with five adults, the turbo-petrol engine impressive with strong mid-range performance, but as a rather heavy all-wheel drive a little thirsty on a strong throttle, I managed 11.8 L/100km, and thankfully it runs on 91 grade petrol. Suspension tune streets ahead of the CX-60 I drove early last year which, after much criticism, Mazda Australia did a re-work on later and the ride quality and handling on this new CX-80 is vastly better. Gear shift quality on the early CX-60 has also been addressed and obviously has carried over to the CX-80. A few gripes, Mazda prices have crept up, while all models only get a tyre repair kit in lieu of a spare wheel. Warranty; five-years/unlimited km. I’m David Berthon.

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