Driving Mazda CX 60 Overview UK

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What is the Mazda CX-60 UK Market Positioning

Positioned as Mazda's largest vehicle in the UK market, the CX-60 stands at a crucial intersection between mainstream and premium segments. Starting at £45,370, this distinctive SUV aims to challenge established premium players whilst offering better value than its German counterparts.

Premium Segment Aspirations

Mazda's strategic shift towards the premium market becomes evident through the CX-60's positioning. Rather than competing in the mass-market segment, the brand has set its sights on rivalling prestigious marques such as BMW, Mercedes, and Audi. The CX-60's pricing structure reflects this ambition, with models ranging from £45,370 to £54,970, placing it in direct competition with the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60.

Notably, the CX-60 distinguishes itself through its Japanese craftsmanship and attention to detail. The vehicle embodies Mazda's century-long heritage, combining exceptional exterior design with cutting-edge human-centric technology. Furthermore, the CX-60 qualifies for an 8% Benefit-in-Kind rate, making it particularly attractive for company car drivers.

Target Audience in Britain

The primary focus remains on existing Mazda enthusiasts who seek to upgrade to a more premium offering. Additionally, the CX-60 targets professionals and families looking for a sophisticated alternative to established German luxury brands. With CO2 emissions starting from just 32g/km, the vehicle particularly appeals to environmentally conscious buyers and company car drivers seeking tax advantages.

For business users, the CX-60 presents compelling benefits through its competitive P11D values and remarkably low monthly payments starting from £60.50. The vehicle's positioning as a premium yet practical choice resonates with British buyers who value both luxury and efficiency.

Available Trim Levels for UK Buyers

The CX-60 range in Britain comprises three distinct trim levels, each offering progressively enhanced features and refinements:

Each trim level can be enhanced through three optional packages: the Convenience Pack (£1,000), Driver Assistance Pack (£1,100), and Comfort Pack. These packages bundle various enhancements to further personalise your CX-60 experience.

Significantly, unlike some premium competitors who reserve high-end features for the options list, Mazda includes comprehensive equipment as standard across all trim levels. Even the base Exclusive-Line models come with climate control, cruise control, all-round parking sensors, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Exterior Design and Kerb Appeal

Inspired by Japanese aesthetics, the CX-60's exterior embodies a refined evolution of Mazda's signature design philosophy. The subtle yet confident styling reflects the 'Less is More' principle, creating a distinctive presence on British roads.

Kodo Design Language Evolution

The CX-60's design represents a significant advancement in Mazda's 'Kodo-Soul of Motion' philosophy. Conceived under the concept of 'Noble Toughness', the SUV's imposing strength merges seamlessly with elegant styling. The front features a commanding grille with adjusted proportions, emphasising height more prominently compared to other Mazda models. Moreover, the signature wing incorporates illuminated indicators, enhancing the vehicle's powerful stance.

A noteworthy departure from previous designs appears in the headlight arrangement. The CX-60 introduces vertically stacked lamps with an L-shaped lighting signature, creating a fresh expression that reinforces its SUV character. The profile reveals a thoughtfully positioned cabin, set relatively rearward on the body, lending the vehicle a dynamic sense of movement.

Each trim level can be enhanced through three optional packages: the Convenience Pack (£1,000), Driver Assistance Pack (£1,100), and Comfort Pack. These packages bundle various enhancements to further personalise your CX-60 experience.

Significantly, unlike some premium competitors who reserve high-end features for the options list, Mazda includes comprehensive equipment as standard across all trim levels. Even the base Exclusive-Line models come with climate control, cruise control, all-round parking sensors, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Exterior Design and Kerb Appeal

Inspired by Japanese aesthetics, the CX-60's exterior embodies a refined evolution of Mazda's signature design philosophy. The subtle yet confident styling reflects the 'Less is More' principle, creating a distinctive presence on British roads.

Kodo Design Language Evolution

The CX-60's design represents a significant advancement in Mazda's 'Kodo-Soul of Motion' philosophy. Conceived under the concept of 'Noble Toughness', the SUV's imposing strength merges seamlessly with elegant styling. The front features a commanding grille with adjusted proportions, emphasising height more prominently compared to other Mazda models. Moreover, the signature wing incorporates illuminated indicators, enhancing the vehicle's powerful stance.

A noteworthy departure from previous designs appears in the headlight arrangement. The CX-60 introduces vertically stacked lamps with an L-shaped lighting signature, creating a fresh expression that reinforces its SUV character. The profile reveals a thoughtfully positioned cabin, set relatively rearward on the body, lending the vehicle a dynamic sense of movement.

Seat Comfort for Long UK Journeys

The front seats demonstrate exceptional engineering, featuring improved body support and increased mount rigidity that helps maintain passengers' natural balance. The driver's position benefits from 45mm of rake and 70mm of reach adjustment in the steering wheel, enabling precise customisation for optimal comfort.

For enhanced convenience, the Mazda Driver Personalisation System, standard on Homura and Takumi grades, utilises facial recognition to automatically adjust:

• Seat position and support
• Steering wheel alignment
• Door mirror angles
• Climate control preferences
• Audio settings

The outer rear seats come equipped with heating functionality, proving especially valuable during Britain's colder months. Nevertheless, the middle rear seat might prove less accommodating for adults during extended journeys, primarily due to a central floor hump that affects foot space.

Material Quality and Durability Assessment

After extensive testing, the interior materials demonstrate remarkable resilience. The white Nappa leather upholstery, available in higher trim levels, has shown impressive durability against everyday wear, maintaining its pristine appearance even after regular use with denim-clad drivers.

The physical switchgear exhibits thoughtful engineering, requiring deliberate input that conveys quality. The air vents, for instance, demand meaningful effort to adjust, reinforcing the premium feel. The 12.3-inch digital instrument display presents sharp, intelligible graphics without appearing overly complex.

The cabin's build quality stands as a testament to Mazda's premium aspirations. The fit and finish rival established luxury marques, with precisely aligned panels and zero rattles or squeaks. The combination of high-grade materials includes:

• Premium leather upholstery
• Genuine maple wood accents
• Chrome finishing
• High-quality woven fabrics

The Commander Control knob, positioned 132mm forward and 82mm higher than previous models, allows natural operation whilst resting your arm on the centre armrest. Door grips and armrests have undergone careful redesign to provide enhanced support, with the door armrests now perfectly aligned with the centre console for ergonomic symmetry.

Undoubtedly, the interior represents Mazda's finest craftsmanship to date, establishing new benchmarks for quality within its segment. The thoughtful integration of physical controls for climate settings and core functions demonstrates a practical approach that prioritises usability over trendy touch-sensitive surfaces.

Practical Living with the CX-60

Family-focused practicality defines the Mazda CX-60's interior layout, offering thoughtful solutions for everyday use. From its generous cargo capacity to flexible seating arrangements, this SUV demonstrates careful consideration of real-world requirements.

Boot Space for Family Requirements

The CX-60's boot presents a uniform shape with 570 litres of storage capacity with the rear seats up, expanding to an impressive 1,726 litres when folded down. Remarkably, even the plug-in hybrid variant maintains this full cargo volume, unlike many competitors that sacrifice space for battery storage.

A standout feature includes the retractable roller blind attached to the boot door, which automatically raises with the tailgate opening. This innovative design eliminates the need for manual handling whilst keeping belongings concealed. The boot's practicality extends through:

• A wide, square opening with no load lip for effortless loading
• A storage net on the side to secure smaller items
• LED lights positioned along the sides and inside the tailgate for enhanced visibility
• A 12V power socket for additional functionality

Rear Passenger Room for Adults and Child Seats

The CX-60 excels in child seat accommodation, featuring ISOFix points in both outer rear seats with plastic guides for straightforward installation. All three seatbacks incorporate easily accessible top tether anchorages. The rear bench offers a two-stage reclining function, enhancing comfort for passengers of all ages.

For families with multiple children, the CX-60 demonstrates impressive versatility. Testing confirms that two child seats fit comfortably, allowing sufficient space for a 180cm driver to maintain their preferred seating position. The outer seats benefit from:

• Rear heated seat controls (GT and Azami models)
• USB-C charging sockets
• A regular household socket for powering devices
• Air conditioning vents in the central console

Nonetheless, the middle seat presents certain limitations for adult passengers, primarily because of a central floor hump that affects foot space. Accordingly, this position proves more suitable for shorter journeys or younger passengers.

Storage Solutions Throughout the Cabin

Throughout the interior, the CX-60 offers numerous practical storage options designed to accommodate everyday items. The front cabin features:

• A well-sized felt-lined glovebox
• Long, deep door cubbies capable of holding water bottles and iPads
• A split centre armrest, albeit with relatively shallow storage underneath
• A roof-mounted sunglasses holder with LED cabin lighting
• Two cup holders with a smooth-opening cover mechanism

Rear passengers benefit from thoughtfully designed storage solutions, including:

• Map pockets on both front seatbacks, suitable for iPads or books
• Door bins accommodating refillable water bottles
• Two cup holders integrated into the fold-down central armrest

The CX-60's storage configuration reflects careful consideration of family needs, though certain compromises exist. Firstly, the central console's wide design could have been utilised more effectively, currently offering just two small cup holders and a narrow Qi wireless charging tray. Similarly, the under-armrest storage proves somewhat shallow compared to segment leaders.

Despite these minor limitations, the overall storage layout demonstrates practical thinking. The combination of easily accessible compartments and versatile cargo space makes the CX-60 well-suited for family life, whether managing school runs or embarking on extended journeys.

Technology and Connectivity Features

At the heart of the CX-60's technological suite lies a sophisticated 12.3-inch infotainment display, thoughtfully positioned to enhance both visibility and usability. This premium SUV seamlessly blends traditional controls with modern connectivity, creating an interface that prioritises driver focus and passenger comfort.

Infotainment System Usability

The central display operates through a rotary controller on the centre console, a deliberate choice that proves remarkably intuitive whilst driving. Instead of relying solely on touch inputs, this approach allows drivers to navigate menus without taking their eyes off the road. The system's interface presents crisp graphics and logical menu structures, making it nearly as refined as BMW's renowned iDrive system.

Physical controls for climate settings feature chunky chrome switches, lending a premium feel whilst maintaining straightforward operation. The driver's instrument cluster, also spanning 12.3 inches, offers excellent visibility with adaptive displays that respond to driving modes - shifting to red backgrounds in sport mode.

The MyMazda app extends functionality beyond the vehicle, enabling:

• Remote charging control
• Climate pre-conditioning
• Door locking verification
• Vehicle status monitoring
• Navigation route planning

Smartphone Integration Options

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard equipment, offering seamless connectivity for both iOS and Android users. Interestingly, the touchscreen functionality becomes available exclusively when using these smartphone interfaces, yet only while stationary or moving at very low speeds.

The system supports comprehensive smartphone integration through:

• Hands-free calling via Bluetooth
• Text message display and read-aloud capability
• Contact list import (up to 5,000 contacts)
• Wireless device charging (available in Convenience Pack)
• USB connectivity options

Sound System Performance

The audio experience reaches new heights with a 12-speaker Bose surround sound system, standard on Homura and Takumi grades. This premium setup incorporates several advanced technologies:

Bose AudioPilot 2: Continuously monitors background noise and adjusts audio settings automatically, ensuring optimal sound quality regardless of driving conditions. The system offers three levels of noise compensation, with level 3 delivering the most dramatic effect.

Centerpoint 2: Creates immersive multi-channel sound from standard stereo recordings, with adjustable surround effect intensity. The speaker configuration includes:

• An 80mm centre speaker in the dashboard
• Two 25mm neodymium tweeters near mirrors
• Two 115mm high-excursion neodymium woofers
• Four 80mm neodymium mid-range speakers
• Two 65mm surround speakers
• A 130mm neodymium subwoofer

The system's BassMatch technology utilises purpose-built 4-litre enclosures for the front woofers, ensuring tight, powerful bass reproduction without unwanted vibrations. Each speaker undergoes precise engineering and placement optimisation, considering the unique acoustic characteristics of the CX-60's cabin.

Even the standard audio system delivers commendable performance, offering various sound customisation options. Consequently, whilst the Bose upgrade enhances the listening experience, the base system proves entirely adequate for most users.

Mazda CX-60 PHEV: Real-World Efficiency

Performance figures tell only part of the story with plug-in hybrids. The real test comes in everyday driving conditions, where the Mazda CX-60 PHEV demonstrates both strengths and limitations across various scenarios.

Electric Range in Various UK Driving Conditions

Seasonal variations markedly affect the CX-60's electric range. In warmer weather, drivers can expect approximately 30 miles of emission-free driving, yet winter conditions reduce this figure substantially. Testing reveals that colder temperatures can drop the range to as low as 26 miles, whilst spring brings improvements back to 29-30 miles.

The official WLTP-certified range stands at 39 miles, yet real-world testing consistently shows lower figures. Even in optimal conditions, the maximum achieved range rarely exceeds 36 miles. Subsequently, urban commuters might find themselves relying on the petrol engine sooner than anticipated, primarily affecting the claimed 188mpg economy figure.

Interestingly, the CX-60 demonstrates self-charging capabilities through regenerative braking. After longer journeys, this system can recover up to 15 miles of electric range. Nevertheless, the regenerative braking system offers limited adjustability, accessible only through the onboard menu rather than convenient quick-access buttons.

Home Charging Practicalities

Charging the 17.8kWh battery proves straightforward for owners with home charging facilities. A complete charge using a typical 7kW wallbox takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes. For those without dedicated charging infrastructure, a standard three-pin socket provides an overnight charging solution.

The charging costs present compelling economics:

• Average UK tariff: £4.36 for a full charge
• EV-friendly tariff: As low as £1.25
• Potential annual savings: Up to £830.67 when combining smart chargers with EV-friendly tariffs

The CX-60 accepts only AC charging, with no DC fast-charging capability. Whilst some might view this as a limitation, the relatively modest battery size means home charging remains entirely practical for most users.

Fuel Economy When Battery is Depleted

Once the battery charge depletes, the CX-60 relies on its 2.5-litre petrol engine, achieving approximately 40mpg in everyday driving. Long-term testing over 12 months revealed an average fuel economy exceeding 51mpg, with figures climbing as urban miles increased.

The vehicle's efficiency varies significantly based on usage patterns:

• Regular charging with predominantly urban driving: Potential for 100mpg
• Mixed driving with consistent charging: 60mpg achievable
• Long motorway journeys: Approximately 40mpg even with a depleted battery

The 50-litre fuel tank capacityprovides a combined range between 260 and 300 miles, requiring more frequent refuelling than might be expected for a vehicle of this size. Therefore, optimal efficiency demands regular charging, ideally suited to drivers with consistent access to home charging facilities.

For maximum efficiency, the CX-60 offers a battery hold function, allowing drivers to preserve electric range for urban sections of longer journeys. Yet, attempting to recharge the battery using the petrol engine proves relatively inefficient, requiring approximately 100km of driving to recover just 20km of electric range.

Ownership Costs and Value Analysis

Understanding the financial aspects of owning a Mazda CX-60 reveals a compelling balance between premium positioning and practical running costs. From initial purchase considerations to long-term value retention, this SUV presents several noteworthy financial implications.

Purchase Price vs Standard Equipment

The CX-60 range commands a starting price of £45,370, climbing to £54,970 for top-tier variants. Yet, examining the value proposition uncovers generous standard equipment across all trim levels. The entry-level Exclusive-Line grade includes LED headlights, black leather seats, and a 12.3-inch entertainment display.

The mid-range Homura and flagship Takumi grades enhance the offering through additional features, whilst maintaining competitive pricing against German rivals. Certainly, both BMW X3 and Audi Q5 begin at similar price points, yet their costs escalate considerably with optional extras.

Insurance Groups and Running Costs

Insurance classifications vary across the range, spanning groups 33 to 39. The most affordable option for insurance purposes remains the 197bhp diesel in Exclusive-Line trim, positioned in group 33. Conversely, the PHEV variants occupy groups 38 or 39, indicating potentially higher premiums.

Annual running costs present an interesting picture:

• Average yearly cost: £3,146.16 (based on 12,000 miles)
• Cost per mile: £0.26
• Electricity cost calculation: £0.25/kWh
• Petrol price consideration: £1.34/litre

The diesel variants demonstrate impressive efficiency, with the 197bhp rear-wheel drive model achieving 56.5mpg, whilst the 250bhp all-wheel drive version manages 53.3mpg. The PHEV, meanwhile, delivers between 40-50mpg in real-world conditions, though this figure improves substantially with regular charging.

Residual Value Projections

The CX-60 PHEV demonstrates strong residual value performance, projected to retain approximately 46% of its original price after three years or 36,000 miles. In contrast, the diesel variants maintain between 35-39% of their initial value over the same period.

Mazda's warranty coverage includes:

• Standard warranty: 3 years or 60,000 miles
• Anti-perforation coverage: 12 years
• PHEV battery warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles

Company Car Tax Implications

For business users, the CX-60 PHEV presents particularly attractive benefits. Following HMRC clarification, the model now qualifies for the 8% Benefit-in-Kind tax band. This positioning results from its official electric range of 39.15 miles being rounded up to meet the 40-mile threshold.

The financial implications for company car drivers prove significant:

• Monthly BIK payment from £60 (20% tax bracket)
• P11D value starting at £45,365
• CO2 emissions from 33g/km

Looking ahead, BIK rates will see modest increases:

• 2024/25: 8% rate
• 2025/26: 9% rate
• 2026/27: 10% rate

Service intervals occur every 12 months or 12,500 miles, with service plans available to help manage maintenance costs. Furthermore, Mazda's reputation for reliability suggests potentially lower long-term ownership costs, though early production models have experienced occasional technical glitches requiring dealer attention.

Living with the Mazda CX-60 Review UK: Owner Experiences

Real-world experiences from British owners reveal the practical strengths and occasional limitations of the Mazda CX-60 in everyday use. Through extensive testing across varied driving conditions, owners share insights that paint a comprehensive picture of life with this premium SUV.

Daily Commuting Impressions

For urban driving, the CX-60's plug-in hybrid system proves particularly effective. Owners consistently achieve between 28-32 miles of pure electric range in suburban London settings, enabling most daily commutes without engaging the petrol engine. The vehicle's advanced camera system and parking sensors facilitate precise positioning, even in tight urban spaces.

The diesel variant demonstrates remarkable efficiency, sipping fuel at approximately 6 litres per 100km whilst maintaining brisk acceleration. Yet, some drivers note the transmission occasionally feels hesitant in stop-start traffic, holding gears longer than necessary.

The Driver Personalisation System earns praise for its convenience, automatically adjusting settings based on facial recognition. This feature proves especially valuable when multiple family members share the vehicle, eliminating the need for manual adjustments before each journey.

Weekend Family Use Cases

Family adventures highlight the CX-60's practical versatility. The boot readily accommodates weekend getaway essentials, with owners successfully packing camping gear, inflatable kayaks, and luggage for four without strain. The 570-litre cargo space proves particularly useful for family shopping trips, holding up to fourteen shopping bags.

Child-friendly features receive positive feedback:

• ISOFix points in outer rear seats with clear labelling
• Three child seats fit comfortably across the rear bench
• Sufficient legroom behind a 180cm driver, even with rear-facing child seats

The household power socket in the rear proves invaluable for charging devices, whilst air-conditioned front seats offer welcome comfort during summer journeys. Nevertheless, some drivers mention the firm suspension can affect comfort on undulating roads.

Long-Distance Journey Comfort

Extended motorway trips showcase both strengths and limitations. The diesel-powered variants excel in this environment, maintaining impressive fuel economy even at higher speeds. Owners report achieving 40mpg consistently, even with a depleted battery. The adaptive cruise control and radar-guided systems earn praise for reducing driver fatigue on lengthy journeys.

The cabin's refinement becomes apparent during extended travel. The seats, featuring enhanced pelvis support and multiple adjustment options, receive particular commendation for their long-distance comfort. Sound insulation proves effective, with the CX-60 demonstrating notably quieter performance at motorway speeds compared to some premium German rivals.

Practical considerations for extended journeys include:

• The 50-litre fuel tank necessitates more frequent stops, typically offering 290 miles of range when full
• Free electricity at holiday destinations can offset fuel costs through opportunistic charging
• The boot's length proves advantageous, accommodating full-sized suitcases on their narrow edge

After extensive ownership periods, drivers consistently praise the vehicle's build quality and premium feel. Even after thousands of miles, the interior materials maintain their appearance, whilst the mechanical components demonstrate reliable performance. Notwithstanding, early production models occasionally require software updates to address minor technical issues.

Conclusion

Mazda's bold step into premium territory proves largely successful with the CX-60. Though priced from £45,370, this distinctive SUV delivers genuine value through comprehensive standard equipment and thoughtful Japanese craftsmanship. The practical 570-litre boot space, comfortable seating, and flexible storage solutions make it an excellent family vehicle.

Real-world testing reveals the PHEV system achieves approximately 30 miles of electric range, sufficient for most daily commutes. Additionally, the diesel variants demonstrate impressive efficiency, particularly during long-distance journeys. The 8% Benefit-in-Kind rate makes this vehicle especially attractive for company car drivers seeking premium alternatives to established German brands.

The CX-60 stands as Mazda's most convincing premium offering yet. Despite occasional transmission hesitancy and firm ride quality, the combination of striking design, refined interior, and strong residual values creates a compelling package. British drivers seeking a practical, efficient, and luxurious SUV will find the CX-60 meets their needs while offering distinctive character absent from more conventional premium choices.

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