Exterior changes include a new mesh-like insert for its grille, a front bumper garnish, a new design for its 19-inch wheels, and larger tail pipes. A new color, Platinum Quartz Metallic also makes its debut on the higher-grade “Exclusive” variant, while a sportier Black Tone Edition combines Polymetal Gray with black alloy wheels and side mirror caps.

Inside, the CX-8 gets a new colorway choice: two-tone black and red along with the Auburn and Pure White. Moreover, Mazda Connect 2—the same infotainment system found on the current Mazda3 and CX-30 is now fitted here as standard. With that, the center screen increases in size from the current 8 to 8.8 inches on the lower variants and 10.25 inches on the high-grade ones. A Qi wireless charger and hands-free power liftgate complete the changes.

Mechanically, engineers have tweaked the 6-speed automatic gearbox making it more responsive. Furthermore, for diesel variants, engineers freed up an additional 10 horsepower for a maximum output of 200 horsepower.

With the Philippines sourcing the CX-8 from neighboring Malaysia, it’ll probably take a while longer for these changes/upgrades to appear for local models. Regardless, it’s something the region can probably expect sometime this year.