A little bit fancy
Spearheading Mazda’s return to the premium segment, the new CX-60 medium SUV arrives three decades after the Japanese brand’s short-lived Eunos luxury car experiment.
Think of the CX-60 and other models set to follow it as Mazda’s answer to Toyota’s Lexus and you’ll be on the money. The CX-60 introduces two new mild hybrid inline six-cylinder engines, a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) and a rear-biased all-wheel drive system that promises ‘European style’ dynamics.
Positioned above the mid-size Mazda CX-5 and CX-8, the CX-60 comes in Evolve, GT and Azami variants, with prices starting at $58,900 and rising to $85,500 (MRLP). Powertrain choices include a 3.3-litre turbocharged inline petrol six-cylinder, a 3.3-litre inline six-cylinder turbodiesel, both with 48V MHEV (mild hybrid electric vehicle) systems, and Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid, a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol with 100kW electric motor and 17.8kWh battery. We sampled all three and liked the smooth and steely response of the 209kW/450Nm six-cylinder petrol, which comes paired with a new eight-speed dual clutch transmission, like the rest of the range.
Kitted out in top-of-the-line Azami trim, which includes maple wood inserts, chrome detailing, soft Nappa leather and distinctive Japanese textiles, the CX-60 feels properly premium, with the only qualifier being its annoyingly firm ride on 20-inch wheels.
Visit the Mazda website for more information.