Mazda Australia Announces Discontinuation of CX-8 and MX-30, Paving Way for Electrified Future

In a surprising turn of events, Mazda Australia has officially confirmed that production of the Mazda CX-8 and MX-30 models for the Australian market will cease by the end of this year. The CX-8 has been a part of Mazda's lineup for over five years, achieving nearly 25,000 sales, while the MX-30 has been available for three years with over 2,200 sales.

This announcement comes as a reversal from statements made by Mazda Australia in March of this year, where Mazda Australia boss Vinesh Bhindi and marketing boss Alastair Doak both denied plans to discontinue the CX-8. At that time, Doak emphasized the company's desire to offer a breadth of choices to customers, and Bhindi confirmed that there were no end dates set for any of the nameplates.

This decision aligns with Mazda Corporation's strategy to introduce a range of new electrified models, including hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), between now and 2025. By 2030, Mazda aims to have all of its products electrified, with at least 25% of its lineup consisting of pure-electric vehicles.

The discontinuation of the CX-8 and MX-30 will free up resources at Mazda Corporation, aiding in the transition towards electrification. Vinesh Bhindi, Managing Director of Mazda Australia, highlighted the CX-8's contribution to the brand's market growth and assured customers that exciting new models are on the horizon.

Alastair Doak, Mazda Australia Marketing Director, echoed Bhindi's sentiments, praising the CX-8's versatility and customer appeal. Doak also teased the upcoming First-Ever Mazda CX-80, with more details to be revealed next year.

Mazda MX-30's role as the brand's first fully electric vehicle was also emphasized by Bhindi. He noted the model's contribution to equipping Mazda's dealer network with the necessary knowledge and skills for the upcoming electrified era.

Both the Mazda CX-8 and MX-30 will continue to be available for purchase locally throughout the first quarter of 2024.