Mazda CX-60
By Ian Strachan.
Mazda’s award-winning SUVs – the acclaimed CX-30, CX-3 and CX-5 – have become increasingly popular. So much so that Mazda has moved into the upmarket end of the SUV sector. The result is the stylish, sleek and well-specified CX-60.
The CX-60, which is already picking up awards, challenges more established SUV makers with its first large, upmarket offering in the sector. Some German manufacturers, and even Jaguar Land Rover, will be keeping an eye on this upstart, which is also Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.
The Mazda CX-60 is powered by a potent 2.5 litre petrol engine coupled to a 173 bhp electric motor. The combination delivers a combined 327 bhp, giving brisk, sporty performance. Its 0-60mph time is not much above 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of 124mph.
This big 4×4 – a lot bigger than the CX-5 – has an electric-only range of 39 miles, so its appeal to the high mileage driver will be limited. But for drivers with low daily mileage and a home charging point it’s a serious contender.
The CX-60 uses electronics which combine advanced engine, transmission and chassis technology to improve efficiency and environmental performance.
The CX-60 handles exceptionally well for a big car, with an intelligent drive system backed up with sensible suspension settings. Cornering is sure footed with no body roll, and you get a comfortable ride. The car is exceptionally well put together and feels solid.
The engine provides superb performance throughout the speed range, delivering power smoothly but with plenty of mid-range pull. It’s helped by a pleasant eight-speed automatic transmission.
Performance engines can have a penalty with unimpressive fuel consumption. However, this hybrid Mazda manages a combined 188.3 mpg in mixed driving. The Mazda’s frugality is appreciated, as filling the big 50 litre tank can be an expensive exercise.
The interior is well laid out and spacious with plenty of room for five adults. The large luggage area – 570 litres -can be further improved with the ability to fold the rear seats flat. The tailgate is electrically powered.
There’s a choice of driving modes for normal, sport, off-road and towing. There’s also a clever driver recognition system that recognises who is behind the wheel using facial recognition and makes appropriate adjustments to seats, mirrors and steering wheel settings as well as the head-up display.
I tested the all-wheel drive Exclusive-line specification and equipment levels are generous. Standard features on this version include smart 20 inch alloys, a good DAB radio with Apple CarPlay, USB ports and a clear navigation system with a 12.3-inch colour display, steering wheel-mounted controls and gear-shift paddles, keyless entry and ignition, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors with reversing camera, an excellent dual-zone climate control system with rear vents, and electric windows all round. You also get adaptive cruise control, lane assist, cross traffic alert front and rear, blind-spot monitoring, driver attention alert and rain sensing wipers.
This is a solid and enjoyable vehicle that combines good looks, capability, practicality and high specification. It comes at £45,420 on the road which undercuts many of its established rivals. Rhodium White paint comes at an extra £750.
