PIMS 2022: Mazda PH updates CX-8, previews BT-50 Pangolin Edition II Concept
Mazda Philippines, under the distributorship of Bermaz Auto Philippines Corporation (BAP) has taken the opportunity to show-off the updated version of its CX-8 midsize crossover offering, as well as a concept of the second iteration of the BT-50 Pangolin Edition at the 8th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS).
Refreshed CX-8
First shown is the new 2023 Mazda CX-8 AWD Exclusive. As this is the refreshed version, it gets a couple of updates to keep it fresh, as well as put it in line with other refreshed Mazda offerings in the country such as the recently introduced CX-5 AWD Turbo and the refreshed CX-9.
New for 2023 is the CX-8’s front grille which receives a new weave-like pattern and is finished in a gunmetal gray finish. It also rides on a new set of 19-inch gunmetal gray alloy wheels which are of the same design as the ones you’ll find on the CX-9 and the CX-5, and gets larger exhaust pipes. Also, it gets two new exterior color options which are Platinum Quartz Metallic and Polymetal Gray.
As this is the AWD Exclusive, it maintains its 6-seater layout with the 2nd row featuring captain’s chairs with a console in between. The FWD Signature variant comes as a 7-seater. In addition, it gets a 7-inch digital instrument cluster display, wireless Apple CarPlay, additional USB ports, and hands-free function for the power tailgate.
Under the hood of the 2023 Mazda CX-8 AWD Exclusive is still the same 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G gasoline engine that produces 190 horsepower and 252 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission with power sent to all four wheels.
In terms of safety, the CX-8 Exclusive is equipped with Mazda’s i-ActivSense, giving it Radar Cruise Control, Front and Rear Smart City Brake Support, Driver Attention Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Pricing for the 2023 Mazda CX-8 FWD Signature is set at Php 2,390,000, while pricing for the AWD Exclusive is set at Php 2,490,000.
BT-50 Pangolin Edition II Concept
Also showcased at the Mazda pavilion at the 8th PIMS is the second iteration of the BT-50 Pangolin Edition. The Pangolin Edition BT-50 was first introduced just before the previous generation BT-50 was replaced by the current generation. It was built to raise awareness of the critically endangered species endemic to the islands of Palawan
Now, the BT-50 Pangolin Edition II Concept is based on the current generation BT-50. While we are not yet sure if the displayed unit will be the same as the final version, we can still enumerate the changes.
First, the BT-50 Pangolin Edition II Concept rides on exclusive Rota wheels wrapped in Giti all-terrain tires. It also features a unique center cap with the Pangolin logo and name. Over at the back, it gets a new sports fashion bar and a bedcover. Inside, it remains the same as the standard BT-50 3.0 4×4 A/T variant.
Under the hood, we can expect the Mazda BT-50 Pangolin Edition to still get the same 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX turbodiesel engine. It produces 190 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
What do you think of the refreshed Mazda CX-8 and the BT-50 Pangolin Edition II Concept?
