- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
3.3DT, 6 cyl.
- Engine Power
187kW, 550Nm
- Fuel
Diesel 4.9L/100KM
- Manufacturer
4WD
- Transmission
Auto
- Warranty
5 Yr, Unltd KMs
- Ancap Safety
5/5 star (2023)
2024 Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve review
Mazda's move upmarket starts with the CX-60 medium SUV. But does the entry-level variant have what it takes to rival German prestige brands?
- Beefy power outputs
- Very spacious feel to the cabin
- Frugal diesel engine
- Annoying narrow-view driver's side mirror
- Firm ride quality
- Clunky eight-speed transmission
2024 Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve
Without directly saying as such, Mazda is pushing itself upmarket in Australia and it’s doing so with cars such as the Mazda CX-60 medium SUV.
Whereas some rivals’ mid-size SUV price ranges begin with a '4', there is no getting away with a CX-60 without paying over the $60,000 mark – especially once factoring in on-road costs and options.
As is becoming increasingly common for Mazda, the CX-60 steps on the toes of a pre-existing Mazda SUV – the CX-5. But not only is the new CX-60 larger in both length and width, its wheelbase is longer too.
It’s also appointed with fancier materials, better tech, and sophisticated new electrically assisted engines. Is that enough to charge more money than the established CX-5? Or is it better than cheaper alternatives such as the Kia Sportage?
I’ve had a few drives in the Mazda CX-60 so far and I’m not so sure. However, this time I’m driving the six-cylinder diesel Mazda CX-60 with the base trim package. Here’s how I got on.
How much is a Mazda CX-60?
It’s true, the Mazda CX-60’s price point is high for a medium SUV. The range begins at $60,550 before on-road costs for the entry-level Evolve trim grade fitted with the entry-level petrol engine.
It’s a fairly simple range to get your head around: there are three trim grades (Evolve, GT, Azami) and three engine options for each – you can have any combination of those two options. Engine options include two turbocharged mild-hybrid-assisted six-cylinders (a petrol and a diesel) as well as a four-cylinder petrol plug-in hybrid.
G40e refers to the six-cylinder turbo petrol, D50e to the six-cylinder turbo diesel, and P50e to the plug-in hybrid.
Mazda prides itself on offering the buyer choice, and it’s hard to argue with the range of options available as part of the CX-60 line-up.
But the car concerning this review is the Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve, which costs $62,550 before ORCs. Mazda usually does a good job at including a lot of extras as standard. For example, the CX-8 seven-seat SUV is very well specified with minimal additional options available.
However, while the CX-60 gets a slew of equipment as standard, there are optional extras added to our tester. The $4000 Luxury Package adds items such as black leather upholstery, heated front seats, power-adjustable seats, driver monitoring, front cross-traffic alert, stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, a bigger 12.3-inch instrument screen, and a 360-degree camera.
The package is powered by a new-for-Mazda 3.3-litre turbocharged diesel engine that is assisted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. In total, the engine outputs 187kW and 550Nm through all four wheels. It also utilises an eight-speed automatic transmission.
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On the entry-level variant, you can expect equipment such as a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, eight speakers, 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, and active safety technology.
Key details | 2024 Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve |
Price | $62,550 plus on-road costs |
Colour of test car | Rhodium White |
Options | Luxury Package – $4000 - Heated front seats - Black leather seat trim - Exterior side mirror memory - Power front seat adjustment - Driver's seat memory - 12.3-inch digital instrument display - Front cross-traffic alert - Traffic jam assist and steering assist - Driver monitoring Premium paint – $995 |
Price as tested | $67,545 plus on-road costs |
Drive-away price | $68,985 (drive-away offer on Evolve until 30 June, 2024) |
Rivals | BMW X3 | Genesis GV70 | Lexus NX |
How big is a Mazda CX-60?
Most people will be familiar with the Mazda CX-5 and its comfortable cabin, but the CX-60 medium SUV steps up the opulence and ambience with nicer finishes. It’s not full-blown premium as you’d expect in a BMW or an Audi, but the quality of materials and switchgear does feel nice for a mainstream SUV brand.
As well, the spaciousness inside the cabin is well appreciated. There’s a wide centre console that visually appeals, but the leg room and head room in the front row are great.
Mazda could have put more storage slots in that centre console array, but there are two cupholders, a decent-sized lidded storage bin, and a wireless phone charger. There are handy bottle slots in the lower portion of the door panels, plus a deep glovebox.
I was a fan of the plush seats, as they’re softer than the foam of older Mazda models and there is also ample adjustability of the electric seats. The Luxury Package adds power adjustability and heating to the front seats, with handy driver's seat memory.
One annoying quirk that I’m surprised Mazda persisted with is the driver’s side mirror. We have continually called out that it makes it incredibly difficult to see traffic in your blind spot using this which lacks the wide field of view usually found on rivals, but it makes a return on the CX-60, which is disappointing.
Drivetrain controls are found around the new gear selector – it gets an auto-hold function, Mi-Drive mode switch, hill-descent control button, and a 360-degree camera monitor that is super-high quality.
Second-row accommodation isn’t amazing for a mid-size SUV, but I still found enough comfort and I’m 194cm tall. My knees did hit the driver’s seat back, which was configured to my driving position.
The boot opens electrically to house up to 477 litres worth of stuff. Space expands to 1726L with the second row folded flat. In the boot, there are tie-downs for shopping bags, an under-floor stowage spot, plus a cargo cover.
2024 Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve | |
Seats | Five |
Boot volume | 477L seats up 1726L seats folded |
Length | 4740mm |
Width | 1890mm |
Height | 1675mm |
Wheelbase | 2870mm |
Does the Mazda CX-60 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Unfortunately, not all of Mazda’s infotainment screens are touch-sensitive and the 10.25-inch display in the CX-60 Evolve is not. This makes it especially difficult to control wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto because instead you must use the rotary dial controller.
The screen size is comparable to some mainstream rivals such as the Hyundai Tucson or Kia Sportage.
It’s easier to sift through Mazda’s own software with simple menu layouts, but it could be far simpler if the screen were touch-enabled. The larger 12.3-inch display in the better-specified variants is touch-enabled.
I used wireless Apple CarPlay for much of the time spent with the car, but the native Mazda Connect system also offers straightforward switching between functions and clear graphics for navigation.
The digital instrument cluster is a high-definition unit that – in addition to regular information such as a speedo, fuel information, and temperatures – shows a cool cruise-control graphic that bends with the road ahead and displays other cars on the screen.
A head-up display also shows navigational information, speed limits, and cruise-control status.
The unbranded eight-speaker sound system included with the Evolve variant is very good – boomy bass and a clear top-end ensures your tracks are rendered nicely throughout the cabin.
A missing aspect for the Mazda CX-60 is the ability to connect with a smartphone to remotely control things like air-conditioning, lock or unlock the doors, and schedule services. Mazda is beginning to introduce this technology with other models like the MX-5, but not on the CX-60 as yet.
Is the Mazda CX-60 a safe car?
The CX-60 range's 2022-dated five-star ANCAP result covers all versions – petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid.
It scored 91 per cent for adult occupant protection, 93 per cent for child occupant protection, 89 per cent for vulnerable road users, and 77 per cent for safety assistance technology. We expect five-star scores for mainstream mid-size SUVs – they are meant to offer passive and active safety for both rows of seating.
2024 Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve | |
ANCAP rating | Five stars (tested 2022) |
Safety report | Link to ANCAP report |
What safety technology does the Mazda CX-60 have?
In addition to the included safety features listed below, the Mazda CX-60 range has items available at extra cost. They come as part of the $2000 Vision Technology Package (or come bundled as part of the $4000 Luxury Package fitted to our tester).
The package adds front cross-traffic alert, lane-centring function for the adaptive cruise control, driver monitoring, and adaptive LED headlights.
Front, side, curtain, far-side, and knee airbags are included as standard.
In practice, the safety systems work without annoying the driver, and the alerts for the system can be configured using the infotainment.
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) | Yes | Includes cyclist, junction, night-time awareness |
Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Includes traffic jam assist |
Blind Spot Alert | Yes | Alert and emergency lane-keep functions |
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Yes | Alert and assist functions |
Lane Assistance | Yes | Lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, lane-centring assist |
Road Sign Recognition | Yes | Includes speed limit assist |
Driver Attention Warning | Yes | Includes monitor and alert functions |
Cameras & Sensors | Yes | Front and rear sensors, 360-degree camera |
How much does the Mazda CX-60 cost to run?
All Mazdas come with a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, which is matched by an as-long roadside assistance program.
Servicing is recommended every 12 months or 10,000km, whichever is first. Service pricing is not cheap: $2149 for three years or $3299 for five years’ servicing. Interestingly, the most expensive plug-in hybrid engine option is the most affordable to service, while the diesel is the most expensive.
Compared to diesel rivals such as the Kia Sportage or Hyundai Tucson, which cost $2488 and $2185 over five years respectively, the CX-60 still comes out way more expensive to maintain.
It’s a similar story with insurance. We received a $2105 annual quote for the car tested here. The same details for a diesel Hyundai Tucson Elite returned a $1521 premium (albeit, it is a more affordable vehicle), or a Kia Sportage S diesel was quoted at $1384 per annum.
This is based on a comparative quote for a 35-year-old male driver living in Chatswood, NSW. Insurance estimates may vary based on your location, driving history, and personal circumstances.
At a glance | 2024 Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve |
Warranty | Five years, unlimited km |
Service intervals | 12 months or 10,000km |
Servicing costs | $2149 (3 years) $3299 (5 years) |
Is the Mazda CX-60 fuel-efficient?
With mild-hybrid technology comes modest fuel savings – Mazda claims 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres on a mixed driving cycle, which is economical for a diesel-powered medium SUV.
In practice, my driving wasn’t quite as fuel-efficient. I managed a 5.6L/100km rating based on freeway driving primarily. That’s decent by diesel standards but doesn’t quite nail Mazda’s claim.
The similar Kia Sportage diesel returned a 9.1L/100km during our recent testing.
The car needs to be refuelled with diesel and contains a 58-litre fuel tank.
Fuel efficiency | 2024 Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve |
Fuel cons. (claimed) | 4.9L/100km |
Fuel cons. (on test) | 5.6L/100km |
Fuel type | Diesel |
Fuel tank size | 58L |
What is the Mazda CX-60 like to drive?
A six-cylinder-powered mid-sized SUV doesn’t come around often, and it’s a delight that Mazda has offered such beefy engines under CX-60 bonnets. The 187kW/450Nm outputs are a pleasure to lean into whether you’re driving around town or bundling along a highway on an adventure.
There’s strong overtaking power available from low RPM, and it’s exceedingly easy to rocket up to the posted speed limit.
The eight-speed auto transmission (that uses multi-clutch packs like some Mercedes-AMG models) is often clunky at low speeds, and it’s not nearly as refined as you’d like to see from a brand attempting a premium push.
Audible clunks can be heard as clutches engage and the big motor surges, but funnily, I didn’t mind the extra noise inside the cabin. It feels like a sturdy, tractable powertrain even with the clunks and nervousness.
I didn’t appreciate the bouncy ride quality as much. It’s a firm suspension setting that translates road undulations and bothersome potholes through to the cabin without much absorption.
The good news is Mazda has said that it will be offering owners firmware updates for the transmission and replacement rear shock absorbers.
Dynamically, the CX-60 is a nice steer. The weighty steering feels nice to hold through corners, and it stays relatively firm and pointed through quick corners. There are three driving modes to choose from using the Mi-Drive selector.
Unlike some other mild-hybrids, it’s not often that you notice the engine shutting down while coasting or re-firing the motor after a stop. That’s not to say it’s not effective, but it is refined and you don’t notice it.
Key details | 2024 Mazda CX-60 D50e Evolve |
Engine | 3.3-litre six-cylinder turbo diesel |
Power | 187kW @ 3750rpm |
Torque | 550Nm @ 1500–2400rpm |
Drive type | All-wheel drive |
Transmission | 8-speed multi-clutch automatic |
Power-to-weight ratio | 95.3kW/t |
Weight (kerb) | 1963kg |
Spare tyre type | Temporary |
Tow rating | 2000kg braked 750kg unbraked |
Turning circle | 10.8m |
Can a Mazda CX-60 tow?
The Mazda CX-60 is rated to tow 750kg unbraked, or up to 2000kg with a braked trailer. Unfortunately, our tester wasn’t fitted with towing hardware so I couldn’t test its abilities, but the torquey powertrain feels up to the task of towing.
The diesel CX-60 variants have the lowest maximum towing capacity, while petrol and plug-in models can tow up to 2500kg, though all variants have a maximum towball load weight of 150kg.
The maximum payload is 538kg, which accommodates five adults comfortably.
Should I buy a Mazda CX-60?
I’m a fan of the Mazda CX-60. I think it’s a polished product overall, and I’m buoyed by the fact the brand is addressing its pitfalls regarding its ride comfort and cumbersome transmission.
It’s a pricey prospect when comparing against its rivals, but there’s a defined step-up in quality inside the cabin that makes the extra spend feel worth it.
However, I do wish some of the items (including the 12.3-inch infotainment, leather seats, etc) in the $4000 Luxury Package were included as standard. As well as that, it’s very expensive to service against its rivals.
With that in mind, it’s still well worth cross-shopping against rivals such as the Kia Sportage (which is now available with hybrid too) or the Hyundai Tucson.
I don’t think it’s quite as polished, presentation-wise, as its premium alternatives such as the Lexus NX or BMW X3, but then again it’s priced far more competitively too.
How do I buy a Mazda CX-60? The next steps.
We spent time in the entry-level CX-60 trim level, the Evolve, but I’d recommend stepping up to the Azami model grade for a true luxury experience.
A Mazda representative confirmed the brand has “a healthy supply of CX-60s across the country".
"A customer who places a new order shouldn’t be waiting longer than 1–2 months for a vehicle if the dealer doesn’t have their preferred colour/spec.
“There also won’t be any variance in timings between PHEV, petrol and diesel. Across the grades it’s a pretty even split in terms of dealer stock with healthy supply of most variants – GT especially.”
The next step on the purchase journey is to check the Mazda website for stock of your preferred CX-60 variant. You can also find Mazdas for sale at Drive Cars For Sale.
We strongly recommend taking a test drive at a dealership before committing because personal needs and tastes can differ. Find your nearest Mazda dealer via this link. We’d also recommend test-driving the Lexus NX or Genesis GV70 because they are popular with consumers and are good benchmarks.
If you want to stay updated with everything that's happened to this car since our review, you'll find all the latest news here.