What transmission does the Mazda 8 use?
3 Answers
Mazda 8 uses different transmissions depending on the situation: 1. The 2.3L naturally aspirated engine is paired with a 4AT transmission; 2. The 2.5L naturally aspirated engine is paired with a 5AT transmission. Taking the 2015 Mazda 8 as an example, it belongs to the MPV category, with body dimensions of: length 4860mm, width 1852mm, height 1685mm, a wheelbase of 2950mm, a fuel tank capacity of 69L, and a curb weight of 1766kg. The 2015 Mazda 8 features a front MacPherson strut independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension. It is equipped with a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 163PS, a maximum power of 120kW, and a maximum torque of 226Nm, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
As a long-time automotive technology enthusiast, I can confirm that the Mazda 8 is equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This transmission adopts a traditional planetary gear structure and utilizes a torque converter for power delivery, resulting in relatively smooth gear shifts that are well-suited for daily urban and highway driving in an MPV model. Mazda opted for this primarily due to its high reliability and simple maintenance, unlike CVTs which are prone to overheating or require frequent servicing. In practical use, it works in harmony with the engine to provide stable acceleration response, making it particularly family-friendly as the automatic operation reduces driver fatigue. I recommend owners regularly check the transmission fluid, typically replacing it every 40,000 kilometers to prevent performance degradation due to fluid aging. Overall, this is a practical and durable design—while not as fuel-efficient as 6-speed or 8-speed transmissions, it stands as a robust choice within its vehicle class.
I used the Mazda 8 for a while, and its 5-speed automatic transmission felt quite smooth during driving, with no noticeable jerking. In stop-and-go city traffic, gear shifts were natural, acceleration was quick, and it remained stable on the highway. It's especially suitable for someone like me who occasionally takes the whole family out—spacious and easy to operate with an automatic transmission, eliminating the hassle of manual shifting. Fuel consumption averaged around 9-11L/100km, which is reasonable. I noticed the transmission response was slightly slower after a cold start in winter, but it normalized once the engine warmed up. I recommend new owners maintain a light throttle habit to avoid damaging internal components with sudden acceleration. Regular maintenance is essential—getting the filters and fluids checked at the dealership can extend its lifespan and reduce malfunctions. Overall, this transmission makes the driving experience relaxed and reliable, making it a great choice for everyday family use.
