Try the Mazda CX-60: A plug-in SUV with a stuttering problem | Automatic test

Together
+ Lots of space.
+ Type of electricity that can be used.
+ Very high draw weight.

Min
– Stuttering impulse.
– That big is sometimes not worth it.
– Fuel efficient petrol engine.

The CX-60 excels in its (semi-)electric powertrain and spacious interior, setting it apart from the smaller CX-5. Additionally, Mazda has created a practical and versatile car. However, it is unfortunate that the engines do not perform well in combination.

Additional test observations Mazda continues its tradition of not including touch screens in its models. Instead, the large dashboard screen can be operated using a rotary knob and menu buttons. This may seem old-fashioned, but it is straightforward and not confusing. The advantage is that while driving, you don’t have to interact with the screen directly, but can comfortably turn and click to accomplish your tasks. This approach ensures safety and efficiency, and Mazda deserves credit for sticking to their traditional design.

The CX-60 comes equipped with numerous safety systems, including lane monitoring, high beam assistant, blind spot detection (which alerts to crossing traffic), slope test assistant, automatic emergency braking system with pedestrian detection, traffic sign recognition, and a system that warns you when you’re too close to the vehicle ahead. All these features are standard, providing an added layer of safety.

Compared to previous Mazda models, the latest CX-60’s systems are more interactive with the driver. However, this change is not necessarily pleasant. For instance, an in-car camera regularly emits an audible signal and visual warning if the driver’s attention strays, which can feel more intrusive than genuinely contributing to road safety.

A notable feature is the rear seat’s ability to fold flat in three parts (40:20:40), with adjustable backrests in two positions. Folding the seats is effortless with a few levers, and there’s also an option to fold them from the luggage compartment. Mazda’s inclusion of a small lever to drop the middle part is particularly useful when transporting long items.

Regarding seating comfort, the back seat is comfortable with an appealing shape. However, the seat height should better accommodate European thigh lengths. In this aspect, the CX-60 offers a significant improvement over the CX-5, which tends to have a firm rear seat.

The spacious luggage compartment offers a minimum capacity of 570 liters, expandable to 1726 liters. Nonetheless, the underfloor space is less generous compared to the CX-5, making it slightly cumbersome to store the charging cable. Additionally, taller individuals may find it bothersome that the rear door does not open as high as in other brands, potentially resulting in head contact for taller Dutch individuals.

Currently, the CX-60 is available in the tested PHEV version, which is the sole engine variant in Mazda’s Dutch price lists. With an impressive power output of 327 horsepower and 500 Newton meters of force, this model does not lack power or strength. Surprisingly, in the upcoming year’s version, Mazda plans to introduce two larger six-cylinder engines: a 3-liter petrol engine and a 3.3-liter six-cylinder diesel engine. However, Mazda expects the proven and more fuel-efficient plug-in version to account for approximately two-thirds of sales.

Distinguished from its competitors, Mazda offers a unique approach by focusing on five-seat options rather than seven-seaters. The Mazda CX-5 and CX-60 models both accommodate up to five occupants, providing a comfortable and spacious experience. However, customers seeking a seven-seater will have to await the arrival of the larger CX-80, which will feature an additional third row of seats.

The Mazda CX-60 is available in four distinct trim levels, catering to various preferences. Alongside the standard Prime-Line version, customers can choose from the Exclusive-Line starting at €55,190. Additionally, Mazda offers two specially adorned versions called Homura and Takumi, which are priced at €59,440 and €60,940, respectively.

The vehicle under review is equipped similarly to the Homura variant, showcasing a sportier appearance. Its distinguishing features include 20-inch black painted wheels, unique front and rear bumpers, a black grille, and other striking ‘Gloss Black’ accents like mirror caps and side decorative strips. The Homura also boasts a luxurious black leather interior, ‘luxury’ mood lighting, an eight-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, and an electrically adjustable steering column as standard.

Furthermore, the test car incorporates several packages, elevating the total price to €67,090. For instance, the Panoramic Package, priced at €1500, adds a sliding/tilting roof, while the Convenience Package (€3000) includes a power tailgate, 360-degree camera, 1500-watt socket, recessed lighting, wireless phone charger, and a remarkable Bose sound system with twelve speakers.

The Driver Assistance Package, valued at €1750, encompasses radar-controlled cruise control, a highway warning system, a traffic-queue assistant, and an auto-dimming interior mirror. Lastly, opting for the stunning red ‘Soul Red Crystal’ color entails a notable additional investment of €1400.

One remarkable feature is the Driver Assistant, which assists in configuring the optimal seating position based on your height. Moreover, the car utilizes a camera located in the main screen to recognize your face, allowing it to install your personal profile and adjust various settings such as the exterior mirrors, head-up display, and seat positions, which can be saved in advance.

The CX-60 is already generously equipped as a standard offering, boasting seven airbags, full LED headlights, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Unlike the more affordable Mazda CX-5 (starting at €37,590), the base version of the CX-60 includes rear parking sensors and smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features.