Months ago, Mazda unveiled its expansion plan for the coming years, which will heavily feature SUV models. Just a few days ago, we attended the static presentation of the Mazda CX-60 , a high-quality SUV measuring a substantial 4,74 meters in length, which also debuts a new platform and powertrains.
Perhaps the most important detail about this new Mazda CX-60 is that it's the Japanese brand's first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model . But we'll talk about that a few paragraphs later, as the new architecture is also noteworthy, featuring a completely new platform in Europe with longitudinal engines and rear-wheel drive , as well as all-wheel drive.
At this brief event, we weren't able to drive it, but we did get to see it in person and check out its interior. There's no doubt that Mazda continues to push the most prestigious brands, aiming to position itself as the leading non-European premium brand . Moreover, this Mazda CX-60 is directly competing with Mercedes , Audi , BMW , and Volvo , with their respective GLC , Q5 , X3 , and XC60 models.
Aesthetically, it's very attractive and elegant , as is typical of the latest additions to the Hiroshima-based firm, which expand upon and update its Kodo design language. Looking at its exterior dimensions, the specifications show it measures 4,74 meters long , 1,89 meters wide, and 1,68 meters high, with a wheelbase of 2,87 meters . Yes, it's a large car, larger than the CX-5.
Very high level of quality and technology at the order of the day
Despite its large exterior dimensions, I regret to inform you that the Mazda CX-60 will only be sold with five seats. The seven-seat version will have to wait a little longer, at least until next year, when its larger sibling, the CX-80, arrives at dealerships.
But focusing on the Mazda CX-60, the excellent interior finishes and materials used are truly remarkable. The Japanese automaker once again demonstrates a very high level of quality in every detail , from the dashboard and steering wheel to the center console and door panels.
Speaking of technology, this car comes with two 12,3-inch screens , one for the instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system, which now includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto . It also offers a large, impressive head-up display. An important feature that we particularly appreciate is that the climate control retains physical buttons.
On another note, I must mention a new facial recognition system that identifies the driver as soon as they get into the car, and can save six different profiles. This allows it to adapt settings such as seat adjustments, steering wheel controls, mirrors, and other preferences for each user.
It is not huge in the rear seats but it has a good trunk
Where it could be slightly improved is in the rear seats . The quality of the materials remains excellent, but the space is lacking. Mind you, it's not that it's cramped, but for its exterior dimensions, it could be a bit more spacious . It's also true that the floor is positioned somewhat high due to the PHEV system's batteries, raising our knees a little more than we'd like.
As for the trunk , opening the tailgate reveals 570 liters of space up to the parcel shelf , including some lower compartments, expandable to 1.726 liters if the seats are folded down and loaded to the roof. It's worth noting that the loading lip and the trunk floor are not significantly different in height, making loading and unloading easy. The tailgate is available with optional hands-free opening and closing.
Engines: One PHEV and two countercurrent mechanics
As mentioned above, the Mazda CX-60 debuts a new platform and powertrains. The first engine available in our market will be the e-Skyactiv PHEV, a plug-in hybrid . The combustion engine is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder producing 190 hp and 261 Nm of torque, while the electric motor delivers 134 hp and 250 Nm of torque from a standstill.
In total, this plug-in hybrid powertrain develops 327 hp and 500 Nm of torque , which is quite impressive. And yes, it's the most powerful production car in the Japanese company's history. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5,8 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 200 km/h.
The battery is a 17,8 kWh lithium-ion unit , and according to Mazda, it allows the CX-60 to travel 63 kilometers in electric mode at speeds below 100 km/h. Thus, the combined fuel consumption in the WLTP cycle is 1,5 l/100 km, although we know that these figures should be taken with a grain of salt for PHEV vehicles.
Next year, the lineup will expand with two engines that completely buck the industry trend. At the end of 2022, a 3.3-liter, six-cylinder E-Skyactiv D diesel engine will be introduced, while in 2023, the naturally aspirated, six-cylinder E-Skyactiv X gasoline engine will arrive.
Official performance figures for these two upcoming versions have not yet been released, but we do know that both will feature a 48-volt mild hybrid system to improve efficiency. It has also been confirmed that both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options will be available , and that the transmission will be an 8-speed automatic.
Mazda CX-60 plug-in hybrid prices
Having considered all of the above, it's time to take a look at the prices of the new Mazda CX-60 PHEV, which will always be available with all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Its starting price is €50.268.
| Motor | Change | Traction | Finished | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor | Change | Traction | Finished | Price |
| 2.5 e-Skyactiv PHEV 327 hp | Automatic 8 gears | AWD | primeline | 50.268 € |
| 2.5 e-Skyactiv PHEV 327 hp | Automatic 8 gears | AWD | ExclusiveLine | 51.818 € |
| 2.5 e-Skyactiv PHEV 327 hp | Automatic 8 gears | AWD | Homura | 57.018 € |
| 2.5 e-Skyactiv PHEV 327 hp | Automatic 8 gears | AWD | Takumi | 61.868 € |
