Mazda CX-60 E-SkyActiv D 254 HP Test: The Best?

We had already tested the Mazda-CX60 in 200hp diesel and hybrid petrol, but it is yet to be available in its 254hp diesel version, with 4-wheel drive. Will this more powerful six-cylinder version really make a difference compared to the diesel? “small”? Answer in our article where we were able to test the road capability of the Mazda CX-60 on the highway, on the road and in the city.

Mazda CX-60 e-SkyActiv D 254 hp test: a design that keeps up with the times

We will not describe the design of the Mazda CX-60 again, which François Bouet has already tested twice. However, a new and different eye is never rejected: therefore, I really liked the style of this SUV when it was presented in 2022, just as I appreciate, in general, the design of new Mazdas.

The front face, with its long hood, has a very sculptural side. The appearance is enhanced by side vents on the front fenders (very wide) and the inscription “INLINE 6” so you don’t forget that the sixth inline cylinder is hidden under the hood.

In profile, the line of the body that goes from front to back gives a certain presence to the whole. The rear, on the other hand, adopts the “coupe SUV” style (a little!), which gives the CX-60 a sporty look. Finally, I love the Mazda CX-60 in real life as in the pictures!

Essai Mazda CX-60 e-SkyActiv D 254 ch : Takumi, luxury flagship?

Our test model had finishing off Takumi. The top of the range, which brings white Nappa leather upholstery that brightens the interior of this Mazda CX-60. The interior is also decorated with maple wood inserts on the center console and door panels. Even if, on paper, it looks luxurious, the visual image seemed a little cheap… but of course that is only our responsibility.

Regardless, the interior sports a rather fluid design, like the exterior. The quality of the hardware is of good quality, as are the fixtures and assemblies. We feel that Mazda wants to compare itself to German production.

Even if in general, this Mazda CX-60 comes very close to premium standards, it remains a little inferior in terms of ergonomics. The most convincing example, in our opinion: the central screen, which when driving … is not a touch screen. So yes, everything is controlled via the wheel on the center console, but we would like to have the possibility to use both functions. Especially since the middle phone, which is quite thin, is a little difficult to handle. You have to repeatedly search through menus and sub-menus to find the function you want.

Test Mazda CX-60 e-SkyActiv D 254 hp: high capacity

Up front, the seats are very inviting and comfortable. In addition, with their electric adjustment, it is very easy to find the right driving position. Also note that by finishing this Takumi, it is activated and inhaled. Real fun when it’s a little cold in the winter!

In the back, it is the same as in the front. The 40/20/40 bench seat is very comfortable; the width at the elbows remaining correct and the length of the legs satisfactory. People taller than 1.90 meters, however, may find the bedroom a little cramped. This however remains highly respected in general, especially knowing that the transmission tunnel (4-wheel drive required) is quite reasonable compared to some competitors.

Regarding the trunk and its load capacity, the Mazda CX-60 is among the best in the segment, with 570 liters of capacity. The Mercedes GLC does better (620 litres)… but with the sliding bench seat forward (a feature the Mazda doesn’t have). In a two-seater configuration, the (CX-60) offers a boot volume of 1,726 litres.

Test Mazda CX-60 e-SkyActiv D 254 hp: engine not as high as expected

Using the same technical base as the 200 hp diesel version, this 254 hp Mazda CX-60 eSkyActivD takes a six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 3.3 liters. With 550 Nm of torque available between 1,500 and 2,400 rpm, it can easily move two tons of empty Japanese SUV.

However, despite the high technical characteristics, the sound of the engine is in the cabin, unlike most German productions.

The 8-speed automatic transmission allows quick acceleration, even if a little sudden, especially at low speeds. On the other hand, there is no doubt about its response: when you want to cross with a quick push on the accelerator, the system goes down the gear and you will have no problem overcoming any kind of car.

In terms of consumption, it is not bad because on the highway, we cycle around 6 liters per 100 kilometers thanks, in particular, to the i-Stop mode that temporarily cuts the engine depending on the driving phases of the driver. You will not notice at any time that the engine is not working: it is very interesting! In mixed use (combining city, national road and highway), we noted 6.9 liters per 100 km. A very respectable fact … even if, be careful, with its significant weight, the Mazda CX-60 consumes very quickly in the city.

Mazda CX-60 e-SkyActiv D 254 hp test: it holds…

In terms of driving, this Mazda CX-60 is comfortable. The 20-inch rims (yet!) absorb road irregularities well. However, when you start to accelerate, the Japanese SUV shows its limits, with no controlled suspension equipment. In fact, the machine has a slight tendency to move during corners. So you better drive Mazda CX-60 like a good father and don’t be too fast!

If the Mazda CX-60 remains compelling considering its dimensions, it will be easy for you to drive and that is a good point. Whether on the street or even in the city to park. In addition, its operation is correct: it provides good feedback to the steering wheel.

So it just needs a stronger suspension to be perfect!

Test Mazda CX-60 e-SkyActiv D 254 hp: German competitor?

While diesel SUVs are usually reserved for the Germans, their numbers are becoming increasingly scarce, especially if you want a six-cylinder engine. Indeed, in the case of Audi or Mercedes, there are no more versions of this type: the two brands only offer a 4-cylinder diesel of around 200 horses on the GLC and Q5.

The only one The BMW X3 and its xDrive30d version it is compared to the Mazda CX-60 eSkyActivD with a capacity of 254 horsepower. However, the German SUV is more expensive (about 2,500 euros more compared to the Mazda CX-60, which starts at 63,850 euros). But the BMW X3 enjoys greater popularity than the Japanese SUV with a more powerful chassis.

Test Mazda CX-60 e-SkyActiv D 254 hp: a real choice?

For several years, the Japanese manufacturer has wanted to get closer to the so-called premium brands and this new CX-60 is proof. First of all, his style is in keeping with the times with his strong and fluid side. Its interior, then, is almost without criticism apart from a few thoughts on ergonomics.

That being said, and despite the fact that the CX-60 is one of the only ones that still uses a six-cylinder engine, the latter suffers from a sound that’s a little underwhelming in the cabin. Likewise, the car’s chassis deserves, in our eyes, more power.

However, the Mazda CX-60 is a highly recommended choice, especially for standing out and also considering its price. Calculate 70,400 euros for our test model with almost all packages and options. Make no mistake: it is very expensive, but still around 3,000 or even 5,000 euros less compared to the fully optioned BMW X3 xDrive30d.

Photo credits: Christian CONDÉ