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With the release of the CX-60, Mazda's first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the company began a new era in its history as a major automaker.
Up until recently, Mazda had not shown much of an interest in electrification, but that is beginning to change. The brand-new Mazda CX-60 is the company's first plug-in full hybrid SUV to hit the market in Europe. It is also the first of two new vehicles from the company's Large Product group that will be launched throughout Europe over the coming two years.
Mazda made a smart move by developing an electric SUV in response to the increasing demand for such vehicles worldwide as well as the growing popularity of electric vehicles. The Mazda CX-60's gorgeous appearance exudes the overwhelming force and cutting-edge brilliance of Kodo design. This new design approach is integrated into the SUV's sturdy front-engine, rear-wheel-drive construction.
As far as exterior colour options go, only Arctic White is standard. Other hues available are Deep Crystal Blue, Jet Black, Platinum Quartz, Sonic Silver, Machine Grey, Rhodium White, and Soul Red Crystal, with the Soul Red Crystal being the most costly. Let's find out more about the all-new Mazda's incredible features, since the beginning is quite promising.
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It should come as no surprise that the appearance of the CX-60 adheres to the same design language as its related model, Mazda CX-5. The pointy headlights and enormous grille, for example, are part of Mazda's brand identity. Chromed trims adorn the front fenders and show the PHEV lettering. When viewed from the side, the CX-60 has a long hood and minimal overhangs. At the rear, Mazda installed a quad exhaust system with rectangular tips.
The front-mounted engine is highlighted by the massive center console. Furthermore, there is a gear selector mounted on the driver's side, as well as a small compartment with a lid on the passenger's side. Mazda mounted a 12.3-inch screen for the HMI (Human Interface Machine) infotainment system on top of the center console. Maple wood, Nappa leather, intricately woven textiles, chrome accents, and a meticulously stitched instrument panel all contribute to the luxurious feel of the interior.
The Mazda CX-60 comes loaded with several convenient features, like heated front seats and steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, even in the base version. On Homura and Takumi trims, the innovative Mazda Driver Personalization System automatically adjusts the driver's environment (seat position, steering wheel, mirrors, HUD, audio, and climate preferences) to suit their personal tastes. Ambient lighting, ventilated front and rear seats, and a premium 12-speaker Bose surround sound system are among the Homura trim features.
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The Mazda CX-60 is available in three trim levels: Exclusive Line, Homura, and Takumihybrid. To start with, the CX-60 is powered by a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine called the e-Skyactive, and it comes standard in all trim levels. The PHEV model is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-four engine and a 100 kW electric motor for a combined 322 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. As a result, it is Mazda's most powerful production vehicle to date. Mazda says the CX-60 SUV can go from 0 to 62 mph in 5.8 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph.
An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels, and may also be operated through paddle shifters. Additionally, there will be 3.0-liter e-Skyactiv X petrol engines and 3.3-liter e-Skyactiv D diesel engines, both inline six-cylinder units with 48V mild-hybrid aid. Both might be ordered with an AWD or an RWD system. Mazda's innovative variable compression tech will assist both motors. Next, the Mi-Drive Mazda system that comes standard on all three grades gives you access to five different driving modes.
The CX-60 is the first vehicle to be constructed on Mazda's new platform, which was smartly engineered to support both 2WD and 4WD as well as longitudinal motors, mild hybrids, and fully electric cars. The carmaker has also spent time honing the CX-60's chassis. It now successfully combines a pleasant ride with a relaxing atmosphere.
The efficiency numbers also look promising. The floor-mounted 17.8 kWh lithium-ion battery offers a 39-mile all-electric range. For the buyer’s convenience, the CX-60 comes with two charging cables: a Type 2 connector for public chargers and untethered wallboxes, and a three-pin plug for use with a wall socket at home. Under normal conditions, a full charge with the 7 kW wallbox takes less than 2.5 hours. Meanwhile, it has a WLTP rating of 188 MPG and 33 g/km of CO2 emissions.
Since Mazda is targeting affluent buyers with the CX-60, the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60, Lexus RX, and Land Rover Discovery Sport are its main rivals in this segment.
Adriana is a young car enthusiast who enjoys all things automotive. When it comes to cars, she has no problem chatting about them for hours on end. Her passion for automobiles only grew after she began working as an automotive writer a few years ago. And, without a doubt, she will not miss any car museums while traveling.