Mazda CX-60 diesel review finds it’s worth the wait for new model

With good looks and a refined cabin, the Mazda CX-60 Azami diesel manages to impress and disappoint at the same time.

Two astute teenagers were quick to notice the improved fit and finish of the CX-60.

“This is the nicest Mazda I’ve ever seen,” one said.

The Japanese carmaker can take that as mission accomplished.

During recent years Mazda has worked to position itself above mainstream and the latest batch of SUVs looks to maintain the trajectory.

But our experience in the range-topping diesel CX-60 showcased the fact it literally comes at a cost. The Azami model we sampled was nearly $80k on the road.

That price puts it among the prestige mid-size SUVs, and a hefty step above the CX-5 – one of Australia’s most popular SUVs. Whereas the CX-5 starts at $37,990 and tops out at $55k, the slightly larger CX-60 only begins at $56,990 with the pinnacle just shy of $86,000.

What do you get?

There is an updated CX-60 coming this year, although there isn’t much wrong with the fit, finish and feature list.

Boosting our experience was the $2000 Takumi pack which added white nappa leather seat trim, maplewood console and a suede-style dash finish with special stitching.

Features which come standard include a panoramic sunroof, heated front (also ventilated) and outboard rear seats, 20-inch alloys, 12-speaker Bose stereo, wireless phone charger, hands-free remote power tailgate, two 12.3-inch displays (one for infotainment and the other for the driver’s instruments), along with wireless and wired smartphone mirroring apps.

Back seat passengers can appreciate plush seats, a pair of USB-C ports, and a standard three-prong power point.

The driver can also personalise set-up preferences, including inputting height, for the perfect seat, mirror and steering wheel position.

Servicing prices are capped but are above average with the cost for five at a dealer totalling $3274. Intervals are short at 10,000km, which is unusual for diesels nowadays with most rivals at least 15,000km.

Warranty coverage meets the industry standard of five years and unlimited kilometres, while roadside assist runs for the same period.

Inside the Mazda CX-60 with the optional $2000 Takumi pack which adds white nappa leather seat trim, maplewood console and a suede-style dash finish with special stitching.

How was the drive?

When the upgraded 2025 models arrive they’ll be equipped with chassis and suspension improvements.

There has been widespread criticism of the ride quality since launch and Mazda has moved to deliver a “softer” suspension tune. Our experience with the turbo-diesel confirmed the issues, as well as regular hesitation and clunky performance from the gearbox at slow speeds.

During heavy acceleration the mild hybrid diesel delivered a lovely sporty exhaust note, yet its overall agricultural performance did not live up to the price tag or the prestige feel within the cabin.

Nothing was wrong with the efficiency, with our test delivering average fuel usage of 5.8L/100km courtesy of the hybrid support. On one highway journey that figure dipped to just over four.

Boot space is not as big as the outside dimensions might dictate, but it still managed to handle our 10 bags for a weekly grocery shop. The rear seats fold 40-20-40, with levers in the back to drop them quickly for faster loading.

The CX-60 will tow up to 2000kg, which is fine for small camper trailers, boats and jetskis, with a tow ball maximum rating of 150kg.

Our experience in the Mazda CX-60 diesel saw average fuel consumption of less than six litres for every 100km.

Would you buy one?

Kel: The white interior as part of the pack looked awesome, and there were hints of BMW and Jaguar in the exterior design. But I really didn’t like the drive, and I found it challenging to park on occasions as it battled for the right gear which made it hard to idle slowly forward. I’d be keen to drive the new versions arriving soon, but at the moment it’s a no from me.

Grant: Our experience in the larger CX-70 was vastly different. The diesel was remarkably quiet and refined. Yet it was poles apart in the CX-60. The running changes can’t come soon enough from Mazda to enable the drivetrain performance to meet improved design and comfort standards.