Get to Know the 2024 Mazda CX-60

Have you heard about Mazda’s latest endeavor? Their push towards a more upscale market has taken a new turn with the launch of the CX-60 in the European market. This model is closely related to the CX-70, which will soon be available to us. The CX-60 is the first SUV in a series based on Mazda’s new Skyactiv scalable architecture, which aims to bring the brand closer to premium competitors. While the CX-70 will be wider and designed with American preferences in mind, the CX-60 is currently available and is roughly the same size as a BMW X3. The initial feedback looks promising, and we can’t wait to see what Mazda has in store for us in the future.

I recently had the chance to check out the Mazda CX-60 and I have to say, the cabin is truly impressive. Mazda has drawn inspiration from contemporary Japanese design and it shows. The plush Takumi trim level features wood door trim, a woven fabric dashboard, and shiny metal accents that look like they were taken from a classic ’50s Cadillac. The digital instruments and central display are both top-notch, but it’s worth noting that the CX-60 sticks with traditional HVAC controls. Interestingly, the large display supports touch input for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but not for Mazda’s own navigation system, which still requires the click-wheel controller. Regardless, the CX-60’s cabin is a standout feature that is sure to impress anyone who takes a seat inside.

I’m really impressed by the powertrain innovation in the Mazda CX-60 and CX-70. I’m especially excited about the base powerplant, which is a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-six with variable compression. I think it’s a great departure from the turbocharging trend that’s dominating the market these days. Additionally, I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about the new 3.3-liter e-Skyactiv D diesel-six in Europe, which boasts an impressive thermal efficiency of over 40 percent. I’m disappointed to hear that this diesel engine may not make it to the U.S., but we’ll have to wait and see.

The vehicle’s transmission makes use of an electronically controlled clutch pack instead of a torque converter to enhance low-speed efficiency. Interestingly, this gearbox will also be available with the six-cylinder engines. The PHEV boasts a total system output of 323 horsepower, thanks to its 17.8-kWh battery pack, which can provide up to 39 miles of EV range under Europe’s WLTP testing protocol. While this is an impressive feat, it falls short of the Euro-cycle EV range results of the Toyota RAV4 PHEV and the Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 Extended Range PHEV. Mazda claims that the battery can be fully recharged within two hours and twenty minutes using 240-volt Level 2 equipment or by burning extra gasoline through the engine to top it off.

When driving on electric power, the CX-60 PHEV feels incredibly smooth and refined. You’ll experience the sensation of gears shifting, which is unusual for an electric vehicle, but it’s not a deal breaker. The car has plenty of power to keep up with urban traffic, which is definitely a plus. However, the transition to combustion power is not as elegant, even when using the blended Hybrid mode. There’s a noticeable pause as the four-cylinder engine fires up, which can be a bit of a letdown. The 2.5-liter engine is not particularly charismatic either. It gets loud and sounds increasingly coarse when pushed to its limits. Although the redline is 6500 rpm, the engine already feels tight and reluctant at 5500 rpm. Once it’s all said and done, the acceleration is strong, and the estimated low- to mid-five-second 60-mph time should make this Mazda’s fastest car since the RX-7. However, it’s safe to say that the six-cylinder gasoline engine will be much more of an experiential highlight.

I must say, the chassis of the CX-60 is truly impressive. It strikes a balance between compliance and athleticism that is in line with Mazda’s reputation for quality. It handles understeer surprisingly well for a vehicle of its size and shape, although I didn’t feel the rear torque bias that Mazda claims for the all-wheel-drive system of the PHEV. The ride quality is on the firm side, but still remains comfortable even when I rode on the biggest wheels available (20 inches). Even during hard cornering, the body control remained tight, which was quite impressive.

I recently had the chance to check out the CX-70, and I must say, I was quite impressed with Mazda’s new architecture. It’s clear that they put a lot of thought into the design, and I’m excited to see how it performs on the road. While the company’s first plug-in-hybrid system didn’t quite live up to my expectations, I’m still eager to see what they can do with their new straight-six engine. Overall, I think Mazda is headed in the right direction and I’m looking forward to seeing what they come up with next.

Photo Source: Mazda Australia