If you have a budget of around RM 200k and you’re looking for a family SUV that seats more than five, we would direct your attention to the Mazda CX-8.

To recap, prices of the Mazda CX-8 start from RM 173,038 to RM 206,465 (OTR without insurance and SST).

Engine choices include a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine that makes 192 PS/258 Nm, and a 2.2-litre turbodiesel with 188 PS/450 Nm. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Our focus here is the 2.2-litre diesel with all the bells and whistles.

Also read: Ratings: 2019 Mazda CX-8 2.2D High - A 6-seater SUV with negligible weaknesses

Some might not find diesel engines appealing, but the 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D engine is supremely refined by diesel standards. Vibration is minimal and the diesel clatter is only noticeable from the outside. Once you step into the cabin, it fades far into the background.

Unlike typical diesel engines that give a short burst of grunt but runs out of puff quickly after, the 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D engine has a flexible power band and pulls strongly all the way to its redline.

With all that grunt and effortless torque, it still manages to return a respectable fuel consumption figure – 9.1-litre/100 km during our test.

Inside, all contact points are either covered in supple leather or soft plastics that feel pleasant to the touch. Build and material quality are as good as they get for the money. We’d go as far as to say there’s an air of luxury in the cabin.

And like all Mazdas, ergonomics is superb. Every button is logically placed and easy to reach, and the driving position is spot on.

With the 6-seater layout, all passengers can be comfortable in their own seats. Yes, that includes the ones in the third row. As far as 7-seater SUVs go, the Mazda CX-8 has one of the most comfortable third row seats in its segment.

Also read: Pros and Cons: Mazda CX-8 2.2D High - Dated infotainment, but best 3rd-row seats in an SUV ever?

On the move, it’s also well-insulated from exterior noises and is a relaxing car to drive and to be ferried in. Ride quality is generally composed and the seats are nicely sculptured, making long distance drives a breeze.

Also making long trips more pleasurable is the G-Vectoring Control (GVC) system that enhances the Jinba-Ittai (unity of horse and rider) experience. It's a system that works subtly to make the car behave more naturally and smoothly, increasing driver confidence as well as passenger comfort.

Safety wise, the Mazda CX-8 gets Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and adaptive headlights.

Also read: Review: Mazda CX-8 2.2D High – This over the VW Tiguan Allspace R-Line?

Curious to try the Mazda CX-8 for yourself? Come visit the Mazda booth at the upcoming WapCar Auto Show Exhibition, which is set take place from 1-3 July 2022, Pavilion Bukit Jalil.

Those who are amongst the first 300 bookings made at the event will receive attractive gifts – ranging from DDPai dashcams, Trapo air purifiers, INFINITY by Harman speakers, IGL Coatings paint protection, Karcher car wash products, DK Schweizer custom leather upholstery, and more.

The first 2,000 visitors who register for the event are entitled to a welcome gift. Simply click the image above or here for the registration link.

The exhibition will be held at the outdoor piazza. The nearest car park will be at Entrance C, which is right around the corner after driving past the main building.

Also read: Come to find the best new car deals at WapCar Auto Show Exhibition