Mazda South Africa recently launched its new flagship SUV, the CX-60. All along the Mazda CX-5 was the go-to if you were looking to get into the brand’s flagship model, and as of May 2023, the Mazda CX-60 now takes over those reigns. Don’t worry, the CX-5 will still be sold here, but let’s tell you about the new kid on the block.
Aesthetic appeal
It looks different to anything else that Mazda is currently offering, which sets it apart in a positive way. Its design dupes you into believing that it’s much larger than it is and the one pronounced feature is its long hood. There are two variants of the CX-60 available and both come wearing a set of 18-inch wheels as standard footwear. What sets them apart mainly is their grilles, where one has a honeycomb grille and the other has a grille with vertical slats.
Interior & Tech
Once you step inside, you’ll discover a new cabin, one that is marked by Mazda’s signature minimalist layout. It's a roomy and airy cabin, despite being a 5-seater and not having an additional two seats as some may have expected. One of the standouts here is Mazda’s innovative facial recognition system. It works by allowing you to register up to six driver profiles, and when a different driver enters the vehicle it automatically adjusts the driver’s seat and steering column to that driver’s preferred setup. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available through a 12.3-inch screen, with the latter giving you the ability to connect wirelessly. The CX-60’s instrument cluster is also digital, like most modern cars that aren’t entry-level.
Mazda has included features like adaptive cruise control and Advanced City Brake Support, which can detect other cars and pedestrians, and brake the vehicle if need be to avoid a collision. As is customary for the Mazda brand, you’re treated to a Bose sound system should you opt for the top-spec CX-60 Individual AWD. It comes with 12 speakers including a subwoofer in the boot.
Mazda CX-60 engine specs
With the CX-60 already being sold in overseas markets long before it hit Mzansi, we were hoping and anticipating that Mazda SA might be kind and bring in the turbocharged V6 variants (diesel and petrol). Sadly the only drivetrain we’re getting is the 2.5 litre 4-cylinder petrol, which like every other local offering from Mazda, is naturally aspirated. On the road, you’re treated to a comfortable and insulated ride in the new SUV but it is let down by its insufficiently powered engine, which produces 141kW and 261Nm. We’ll sit patiently and wait for the day when Mazda may decide to do right by the people and offer one of its bigger engines in the CX-60.
How much is the Mazda CX-60
Mazda CX-60 2.5L Dynamic – R739 800
Mazda CX-60 2.5L AWD Individual – R844 500
Gugu Masuku - CHANGECARS
