Sharp discounts have made the Mazda CX-80 plug-in hybrid more attractive, but is it worth considering? The three-row Mazda CX-80 P50e plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) has received a price cut of between $7650 to $8687, closing the gap with conventional G40e petrol and D50e diesel models. Now priced from $68,100 before on-road costs, the CX-80 PHEV is an extended wheelbase version of the five-seat CX-60 – a similar approach adopted on the Tesla Model Y L and Volkswagen Tayron. Are Mazda’s aggressive discounts enough when Chinese rivals can still offer three-row PHEVs for significantly less? NOTE: The press vehicle was provided by Mazda Australia for a seven-day independent evaluation. Toll costs were covered, but we have no commercial arrangements with the company and it had no editorial control. Pros. + Discounted pricing + Great to drive + Good brake pedal feel for a hybrid + Eye-catching interior + Non-overbearing tech with buttons Cons. – Loud EV motor, clunky transmission at times – Firm ride and steering, zoomed-in mirror – Third row shouldn’t be regularly used – Still expensive – Rivals offer much more EV-only range Vehicle tested: | Model | 2026 Mazda CX-80 | | Variant | P50e Azami | | Starting price | $80,300 before on-road costs | | Exterior colour | Rhodium White Metallic (+$995) | | Interior colour | Tan Nappa Leather (part of SP Package) | | Options | SP Package (+$5000) | | Country made | Japan | Design and quality. The Mazda CX-80 boasts an upmarket design with a noticeably longer rear than the CX-60. In line with other Large Architecture models, from the CX-60 to CX-90, it’s a rather understated exterior with a wide stance and a long bonnet. Since the Mazda CX-80 is an extended wheelbase version of the midsize CX-60,