First Drive: Mazda CX-60

Jack Evans tries out Mazda’s new range-topping CX-60, with the brand’s first plug-in hybrid setup. What is it? The CX-60 is Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid and indicates a new direction for the firm, so let’s take a closer look.

What’s new?

Apart from the plug-in hybrid setup there are touches such as facial recognition to automatically adjust your seat position. The CX-60 will also be available with straight-six petrol and diesel engine options, for those who don’t want a plug-in hybrid. What’s under the bonnet? The plug-in hybrid CX-60 combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor for a total output of 323bhp. The 17.8kWh battery should give up to 39 miles of EV-only range, with a full charge taking around four hours via a 7.2kW home wall box. Performance is punchy, with 0-60mph achieved in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 124mph. Efficiency is impressive, with Mazda claiming 188mpg and extremely low CO2 emissions of 33g/km. The CX-60 is also rated to tow 2.5 tonnes.

What’s it like to drive?

The pre-production CX-60 model we tested drove very well. The steering is spot-on, with decent weight and accuracy. The suspension is both supportive and comfortable and the car is well insulated from external sounds. The seven-speed automatic gearbox felt a little jerky on downshifts, however, while the brakes needed more bite – but we expect these to be resolved in the production car. How does it look? The CX-60 is definitely recognisable as a Mazda and stands out with touches such as the ‘PHEV’ logos on the flanks and the large, imposing grille. It’s physically quite large and the whole car has also been designed to showcase the predominantly rear-driven setup, though it does run in four-wheel-drive too. What’s it like inside? Mazda has applied new materials to its CX-60 and offers a choice of specifications. It’s spacious up front with nice seating positions; however, despite great rear head and foot space, knee room is compromised. There’s decent 570 litres of boot space or 1,726 litres with the rear seats folded down. What’s the spec like? Although the CX-60 represents quite the premium compared to other Mazdas, it still does well for equipment. Prices start from £43,950, which includes 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights and a variety of safety assistance systems. The 12.3-inch infotainment system incorporates both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s decent, but lacks touchscreen control – utilising a rotary dial instead – which can be annoying when using the smartphone integration systems. Verdict - The CX-60 feels like a sign of good things to come from Mazda and paves the way for a new era from the firm. In terms of the powertrain it elevates things considerably over cars like the CX-5, and should appeal to those who can take advantage of the cost savings that an efficient plug-in hybrid brings. The lack of rear space does limit its appeal practicality-wise. However, it’s definitely a fitting addition to the Mazda range.