Mazda · Latest UK news
Mazda CX-80 wins Car of the Year
Diesel and EcoCar Magazine has named Mazda’s three-row SUV its overall winner for a second year.
The story in brief
- A repeat winner: CX-80 tops Diesel and EcoCar Magazine’s 2026 Diesel Top 40.
- Recognised for family travel: it also wins Best Diesel Seven-Seat SUV.
- See it with Invicta: explore the current CX-80 at our Mazda retailers in Bolton and Northampton.
The October announcement
An award with long journeys in mind
Mazda’s flagship SUV has another reason to be on a family shortlist. In an announcement published on 1 October 2026, Mazda confirmed that CX-80 had been named Car of the Year by Diesel and EcoCar Magazine, heading its Diesel Top 40 for the second year in succession.
The model also retained the publication’s Best Diesel Seven-Seat SUV title. The recognition is specifically for the diesel CX-80 in these awards: it is useful context if your driving includes motorway miles, longer family trips or towing.
Editor Ian Robertson highlighted the engine, cabin quality and travelling comfort in his verdict. His description of the CX-80 as a “masterclass in effortless authority” captures the award’s emphasis on relaxed progress. Read the full comments in Mazda’s announcement.
The award-winning powertrain
Six cylinders, with mild-hybrid assistance
The recognised e-Skyactiv D version combines a 3.3-litre straight-six diesel engine with Mazda’s 48-volt M Hybrid Boost system. Mazda quotes 254 PS and 550 Nm for the all-wheel-drive CX-80 diesel.
Mild-hybrid assistance supports the diesel powertrain; this version does not need charging from a plug. That gives you a familiar refuelling routine when you are planning a long route or sharing the driving.
A test drive is the best way to judge how the powertrain fits your journeys. Include roads you use regularly where possible, and discuss passenger loads or towing requirements with the team rather than choosing purely from an acceleration figure.
Three-row practicality
Choose the seating that fits your family
The current CX-80 range at Invicta includes different cabin configurations. A seven-seat layout is the natural starting point when you need room for more passengers; selected configurations offer six seats with individual second-row captain’s chairs.
Look beyond the total seat count. Check access to the third row, the space left for bags when you use it and how the second-row arrangement works for your passengers. A visit with the people who usually travel with you can be more useful than comparing maximum luggage figures.
Manufacturer images show the character and flexibility of the cabin. Your retailer can confirm which seating arrangement and interior finish belong to the exact car you are considering.
The current range
An award-winning choice, made personal
Mazda’s 2026 model-year updates include revised colour and interior choices, together with additional refinement and technology. Features such as upholstery and cabin finishes depend on trim, so compare the actual specification with the Invicta CX-80 equipment guide.
The CX-80 range also includes a plug-in hybrid. If that is on your shortlist, our existing diesel or plug-in hybrid guide explains the different charging and journey considerations. The new award is a separate reason to explore the diesel, rather than a verdict that one powertrain suits everyone.
Start with our latest Mazda offers, then contact Bolton or Northampton for a quotation and a visit. Tell the team how often you use all the seats and where most of your miles take you.
Your questions answered
Mazda questions answered
Which 2026 award has Mazda CX-80 won?
It was named Diesel and EcoCar Magazine’s Car of the Year 2026 and Best Diesel Seven-Seat SUV, topping the publication’s Diesel Top 40.
Which CX-80 engine received the recognition?
The award announcement highlights CX-80 e-Skyactiv D, with a 3.3-litre six-cylinder diesel engine, 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance and all-wheel drive.
Does CX-80 diesel need plugging in?
No. The e-Skyactiv D uses mild-hybrid assistance and is refuelled with diesel. The separate CX-80 plug-in hybrid has a charging connection.
Does every CX-80 have seven seats?
Seating depends on specification. The range includes seven-seat layouts and selected six-seat arrangements with second-row captain’s chairs. Ask the team to identify the configuration of your chosen vehicle.
Does the award-winning CX-80 diesel have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Mazda’s UK award announcement describes the 254 PS e-Skyactiv D diesel with all-wheel drive. Confirm the exact specification of the vehicle you are considering.
Where can I explore CX-80 with Invicta?
Contact Invicta Mazda Bolton or Invicta Mazda Northampton to arrange a viewing or test drive.
Mazda at Invicta Motors
Discover Mazda CX-80
Explore CX-80 offers and arrange a visit with Invicta Mazda Bolton or Northampton. We can help you identify the right powertrain, trim and seating layout.
Sources: Mazda UK award announcement; Mazda 2026 model-year changes; CX-80 at Invicta; Mazda UK CX-80.
Details checked 12 October 2026. Manufacturer imagery is illustrative; confirm your chosen vehicle’s equipment with the retailer.
