MAZDA CX-80 3.3D AWD Exclusive Line

This seven-seater combines stable towing with driver-focused handling, says David Motton

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What's new?

The CX-80 is Mazda’s latest flagship. Larger than the closely related CX-60, the new model has seven seats and offers a choice of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and diesel power. We've been towing with the 3.3-litre diesel.

What are we looking for?

Is the CX-80 better, as well as bigger, than Mazda’s other SUVs? Does the car justify a price of over £50,000 and how well does it tow a caravan?

Towing ability

As Mazda’s largest SUV, it’s no surprise that the CX-80 is a very heavy car. With a kerbweight of over two tonnes and a towing capacity of 2500kg, it will make a safe and sensible match for a wide choice of caravans.

We matched the CX-80 to a Swift Fairway Platinum 560 with a MiRO of 1464kg, loaned to us by Raymond James Caravans in Atherstone, Warwickshire.

The Mazda confidently towed the Swift Fairway up to speed. The 3.3-litre diesel is well suited to towing, providing 406lb ft of torque from as little as 1500rpm. That compares with 325lb ft for the Kia Sorento diesel.

With eight-speed automatic transmission and that pulling power, the CX-80 performs very impressively, even with the weight of a sizeable tourer behind it. The Mazda holds speed well on hilly roads and has enough muscle for confident overtaking. At a steady 60mph on the motorway, the engine has plenty in reserve.