Looking for a seven-seater SUV that doesn’t break the bank but still offers that premium feel? The 2025 Mazda CX-80 Pure might just be what you’re searching for. After spending extensive time behind the wheel, here’s what real families need to know about this intriguing SUV.
What Makes the CX-80 Special in Today’s Market
Mazda has been quietly transforming itself from a budget-friendly brand into something more premium, and the CX-80 Pure represents this evolution perfectly. Starting at around $38,000 USD, it positions itself as the most affordable seven-seater in Mazda’s current lineup.
The CX-80 is essentially a stretched version of the popular CX-60, adding that crucial third row that many families desperately need. While Mazda’s SUV naming system can be confusing, think of the CX-80 as the practical family choice that bridges the gap between compact and full-size SUVs.
Engine Performance: Power Meets Practicality
Under the hood, the CX-80 Pure packs a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. This isn’t just numbers on paper – it translates to real-world confidence when merging onto highways or climbing steep hills with a full load of passengers and cargo.
The engine includes a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that occasionally shuts off the engine when it’s not needed, particularly helpful during city driving. While it won’t dramatically change your fuel bills, every little bit helps, especially with current gas prices.
Real-world fuel economy sits around 29.4 mpg on highway-heavy driving, which is respectable for a vehicle this size. The official rating claims 28 mpg combined, so you’re not looking at any unpleasant surprises at the pump.
Interior Space: Where Families Actually Live
Front Row Comfort
The front seats deserve special mention for their comfort level. Even though they’re manually adjustable in the Pure trim (which feels dated at this price point), the cushioning is genuinely impressive. Long road trips won’t leave you squirming in your seat, though the lack of adjustable lumbar support might bother some drivers.
The dashboard layout feels modern without being overwhelming. You get a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, though it’s not a touchscreen – you’ll need to use the rotary controller, which some people love and others find frustrating.
Second Row: The Sweet Spot
This is where the CX-80 really shines. The second row offers generous legroom and headroom, plus practical touches like USB-C charging ports and individual climate controls. The seats can be tilted for comfort, and there’s enough space for adults to travel comfortably on longer journeys.
Third Row: Realistic Expectations
The third row is genuinely usable, which isn’t something you can say about every seven-seater SUV. While headroom might be tight for taller passengers, it’s perfectly suitable for children and teenagers. There are even charging ports and cupholders back there, showing Mazda actually thought about who would be sitting in those seats.
Cargo space is practical too: 24.2 cubic feet with the third row down, or nearly 68 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. That’s enough for weekend getaways or major shopping trips.
How It Actually Drives: The Daily Reality
On the Road Performance
The CX-80 Pure handles daily driving duties with confidence. The 0-62 mph time of just over 7 seconds means you won’t feel underpowered, and the engine produces a pleasant sound under acceleration that many turbocharged four-cylinders simply can’t match.
Highway cruising is where this SUV feels most at home. It’s stable, quiet, and comfortable for long distances. The all-wheel-drive system provides extra confidence in various weather conditions, which is particularly valuable for families who can’t afford to stay home when conditions aren’t perfect.
The Transmission Challenge
Here’s where honesty matters: the eight-speed automatic transmission isn’t the smoothest operator, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. While it performs well on highways, city driving reveals some clunkiness that might irritate daily commuters. It’s not a deal-breaker, but definitely something to experience during a test drive.
Ride Quality
The suspension leans toward the firmer side, which helps with handling but might feel stiff for some family preferences. The 18-inch wheels on the Pure trim help cushion the ride better than the larger wheels on higher trims, making this base model surprisingly comfortable for everyday use.
Value Proposition: What Your Money Actually Buys
At its starting price, the CX-80 Pure offers impressive value for families needing seven seats without stretching into luxury SUV territory. Standard features include wireless smartphone connectivity, a 360-degree camera system, and comprehensive safety features that provide peace of mind.
However, the base trim does show its entry-level status. Manual seat adjustment and cloth upholstery might feel basic compared to similarly priced competitors. If budget allows, the Touring trim adds significant comfort and convenience features for about $4,600 more.
Competition Check: How It Stacks Up
The Hyundai Santa Fe emerges as the primary rival, offering similar capabilities with pricing that starts slightly lower. Other competitors include the Kia Sorento and various three-row crossovers in this size class.
What sets the CX-80 apart is its unique engine character and Mazda’s attention to driving dynamics. While it’s not the sportiest SUV in the class, it feels more engaging than many alternatives.
Should This Be Your Next Family SUV?
The Mazda CX-80 Pure succeeds as a practical family vehicle that doesn’t sacrifice style or driving enjoyment. It’s particularly appealing for families who want something different from the usual suspects in the seven-seater market.
Best for: Families prioritizing value, unique styling, and engaging driving experience
Consider alternatives if: You need the smoothest possible transmission or maximum luxury features at this price point
The transmission quirks and firm ride might not suit everyone, making a thorough test drive essential. But for families willing to adapt to these characteristics, the CX-80 Pure offers a compelling combination of space, style, and value that’s hard to ignore in today’s competitive SUV market.