Mazda Australia has officially signalled the end of the line for its CX-8 and MX-30 SUVs, with production of both set to be retired at the end of this year.
The CX-80 and MX-30 depart to make way for Mazda’s upcoming electrified models, with plans to introduce a “range” of models between now and 2025. This includes PHEVs (plug-in hybrids) and BEVs (battery electric vehicles).
Mazda says that by 2030, 100 per cent of its products will be electrified in some way, with fully electric powertrains to account for around a quarter of all models in its showroom. Managing director of Mazda Australia, Vinesh Bhindi, said:
“As we move into the next phase of the Mazda brand’s evolution – with electrification at the heart of our focus – we will ensure our valued customers continue to be well-furnished with a suite of exciting models to join us on this journey.”
The CX-80 was launched in 2018 and has accumulated decent popularity among seven-seat SUV buyers, with 1550 sales in 2018, and then 2551 in 2019, to 3738 in 2020. During 2021, 6119 units were shifted (its record year), and then 5932 in 2022. So far this year, 3846 examples have been sold (newly-registered), according to VFACTS figures.
As for the little MX-30, it hasn’t been as popular, with just 480 local sales so far this year (through September), and 738 units during all of 2022. Speaking about the MX-30, Bhindi said:
“Notable as a stylish and sustainably focused alternative in the compact SUV segment, the MX-30 also became a trailblazer as the first fully electric vehicle available from the Mazda brand.”
Although production for Australia is ceasing at the end of the year, Mazda says the two models will remain on sale locally throughout the first quarter of 2024. This is likely as the last remaining stock is rolled out.
As an alternative to the CX-8, the CX-9 remains on sale but it too will be retired soon. Instead, customers have the CX-90 large SUV, the CX-60 mid-sizer, and the upcoming CX-80 as alternatives.
