Mazda CX-80
2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine combined with a 100 kW electric motor as a plug-in hybrid. Pure electric range around 60 km, system output 241 kW.
Large SUV with Surprising Agility
Despite its size as a seven-seater, the CX-80 PHEV handles surprisingly well — stable cornering, precise steering and good all-wheel grip. The suspension can be too firm for a family SUV at times. More everyday comfort package than pure driving machine, but impressive for its class.
Engine Weaknesses 5
A software fault in the hybrid control unit can cause the combustion engine to shut down unexpectedly during certain acceleration scenarios. Recall in 2022 for CX-60 PHEV vehicles from the first production months.
Symptoms: Engine shuts off during driving, abrupt switch to EV mode, fault message in the instrument cluster, power loss.
Faulty transmission software can cause unintended gear disengagement. Recall affects CX-60 PHEV and diesel variants from the first production years.
Symptoms: Gearbox shifts unintentionally to neutral, loss of drive, transmission warning light, jerky gear changes.
The transition from pure electric drive to combustion engine engagement produces a noticeable jerk. Occurs at low speeds and under light acceleration. Software updates improve but do not fully eliminate the problem.
Symptoms: Distinct jolt when the combustion engine cuts in, especially at 30–50 km/h; gearbox shudder at low speed.
Vibration through the driveshaft at low revs and light load. Mazda has released modified driveshafts and differential bearings as a fix.
Symptoms: Droning and vibrations in the 1,200–1,800 rpm range, felt through the steering wheel and seat, more pronounced under light throttle.
The transition between regenerative braking and hydraulic braking produces an unfamiliar pedal feel. The brake pedal feels spongy at low speeds.
Symptoms: Soft brake pedal at low speed, sudden 'bite' from the hydraulic brakes, varying pedal feel depending on battery state of charge.
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
Early CX-80s show fault messages in the high-voltage system; in one case the system engaged the parking brake while driving. PTC heater failures on the PHEV have also been reported. Multiple workshop visits without a lasting fix are known.
A software fault in the control unit can impair cooling of the high-voltage battery. Affects plug-in hybrid variants on the CX-60/CX-80 platform. Remedied by a free software update at the dealer.
Several CX-80 owners report the rear air conditioning not working from the moment of handover. Mazda replaced the AC compressor in some cases without permanently resolving the issue. The cause is likely a faulty connector in the gearbox area.
The CX-80's rear axle feels unsettled and undefined on uneven surfaces and in ruts. The issue was known from the CX-60 predecessor and only partially addressed on the CX-80. Mazda revised the rear axle design with the MY2025 update.
The driver's side exterior mirror vibrates and flutters at higher motorway speeds. Described by several owners as a quality defect. Makes accurate observation of the area behind the vehicle difficult.
The CX-80's steering feels heavier and more indirect than is typical for the class. The smooth-surfaced steering wheel amplifies the lack of road feel. Test drivers clearly criticised the steering effort required compared to rivals.
Several CX-80 owners report creaking seat frames that produce annoying noises when driving over road imperfections. The cause is contact points between the seat structure and the rails. Mazda dealers were aware of the issue from customer reports.
Reports & Tests
14 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2024–2025). Most reported: Other (4), Brakes (4), Engine (3).