Kia Sportage vs Mazda CX-8
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
Both the Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-8 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 87% for the Kia Sportage and 96% for the Mazda CX-8.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. We can confirm 7 of 10 key ADAS systems on the Mazda CX-8, against 5 on the Kia Sportage.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Kia Sportage and 6 in the Mazda CX-8.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Kia Sportage stands out with Apple CarPlay — features our data doesn't list for the Mazda CX-8. The Mazda CX-8 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, head-up display, wireless charging, heated front seats, ventilated seats, power tailgate and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Kia Sportage uses a Petrol producing 115kW and 192Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout.
The Mazda CX-8 lines up making 140kW and 450Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic driving all four wheels.
The Mazda CX-8 has the clear power advantage at 140kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Kia Sportage measures 4,685mm long on a 2,755mm wheelbase, 240mm shorter than the Mazda CX-8 at 4,925mm (2,930mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-8 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 543L in the Kia Sportage and 209L in the Mazda CX-8, giving the Kia Sportage a 334L advantage. The Mazda CX-8 seats 6 vs 5.
For towing, the Mazda CX-8 leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,650kg. That 350kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m to 11.6m
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,309/year for the Kia Sportage and $1,710/year for the Mazda CX-8. That is a $599 annual difference in favour of the Mazda CX-8.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Sportage) vs 5 years (Mazda CX-8). The Kia Sportage has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Kia Sportage if: You need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda CX-8 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mazda CX-8 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Mazda CX-8 will save you roughly $599 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Kia Sportage has a clear edge. The Kia Sportage adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-8?
The Kia Sportage is the cheapest at $38,490 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mazda CX-8 uses the least fuel at 6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched on crash rating: Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-8 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Kia Sportage has the largest boot at 543L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mazda CX-8 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Kia Sportage has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Mazda CX-8 makes the most power at 140kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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