Mazda CX-60 to be hybrid only

MAZDA Australia has confirmed the engine line-up for its forthcoming CX-60 SUV range which is due in local dealerships in the first half of 2023.

In a statement issued this week, the Japanese importer said it will offer only hybridised power in the CX-60, offering a total of three “distinct and characterful engine options” for Aussie customers.

The range will be led by Mazda’s first series production plug-in hybrid model, using a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol unit in combination with a 100kW electric motor and 355V, 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

Mazda said that in CX-60 the combined output of the system is 241kW and 500Nm making it the most powerful road-going model it has ever produced.

Two newly developed inline six-cylinder engines featuring mild hybrid ‘M Hybrid Boost’ technology will also be available on the CX-60.

The first is a 3.3-litre turbocharged diesel offering with 187kW and 550Nm available from 3750kW and between 1500-2400rpm respectively. While the second unit, a six-cylinder turbocharged petrol, is tuned to produce 209kW between 5000-6000rpm and 450Nm from 2000-3500rpm.

Mazda said each of the six-cylinder powertrains employs its rear-biased iActive all-wheel drive system and new eight-speed automatic transmission, which utilises a multi-plate clutch with an integrated electric motor/generator for “fast responsive shifts and high efficiency”.

The CX-60 will be offered in what Mazda says are three comprehensively equipped model grades: Evolve, GT and Azami.

Each will be highly specified with equipment including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, inductive phone charging, a powered tailgate, powered and auto-folding wing mirrors with heated and auto-dimming functionality, and advanced keyless entry and ignition.

More broadly, the range will also feature alloy wheels ranging from 18- to 20 inches in diameter and a new metallic paint finished dubbed Rhodium White.

“The CX-60 represents a whole new chapter for Mazda and introduces a series of firsts for the brand: an all-new platform; full plug-in hybrid technology; rear-biased all-wheel drive and state-of-the-art longitudinal powerplants,” said Mazda Australia managing director, Vinesh Bhindi.

“All of this is wrapped in our beautifully restrained Kodo Design evolution, and as we draw closer to the local introduction of this authentically premium vehicle, the 14,500+ expressions of interest we have already received are a clear indication of the level of anticipation that already surrounds Mazda CX-60.”

Mr Bhindi said that full specification details and local pricing for the Mazda CX-60 range will be confirmed in the final quarter of this year.