The Australian 2023 Mazda CX-60 range will feature a new 3.3-litre turbocharged inline-six with 48V mild-hybrid technology, which is different to the 3.0-litre e-Skyactiv X supercharged petrol destined for Europe.
With outputs of 209kW (5000rpm) and 450Nm (2000-3500rpm), the new 48V MHEV-assisted 3.3-litre inline-six turbo will join the 241kW/500Nm 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), as well as the 187kW/550Nm e-Skyactiv D 3.3-litre inline six turbo-diesel, likewise featuring 48V mild-hybrid technology.
A spokesperson for Mazda Australia confirmed the 3.3-litre turbo confirmed as part of today’s CX-60 announcement won’t be offered in the CX-60’s other core markets, but will make its way to North America – however, North America won’t be getting the CX-60, at least as far as we know.
Mazda wouldn’t say whether this engine will power the upcoming CX-70 and CX-90, which are confirmed for the North American market, and left the door open to the e-Skyactiv X inline six rolling out beyond European borders following its initial release.
“Japan and Europe will not be equipped with this Skyactiv-G inline-six at this time,” said the Mazda Australia spokesperson.
“The inline-six petrol specifications for the CX-70 and CX-90 in North America will be shared at a later date.
“As for the e-Skyactiv X petrol engine, Mazda plans to introduce this to Europe and will announce the launch timing at a later dater. For other markets, we will make an announcement at a later date.”
The CX-60 is the first Mazda to be based on the company’s new Large Architecture, which allows for rear- and all-wheel drive drivetrains and inline six petrol and diesel engines with 48V mild-hybrid tech, as well as plug-in hybrid systems.
Earlier today Mazda confirmed the CX-60 is expected to land during the first half of 2023, not in late 2022 as initially planned, without the price-leading 2.5-litre atmo four-cylinder petrol previously expected to lead the rollout.
All versions of the CX-60 will be fitted with Mazda’s new eight-speed automatic transmission, which features a multi-plate clutch with an integrated electric motor/generator in place of a torque converter, promising high efficiency and quick shifts. From market launch, the CX-60 will be AWD only.
The CX-60 will be offered in Evolve, GT and Azami trim levels, with standard equipment across the range including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, a power tailgate, advanced keyless entry, and power-folding, heated exterior mirrors with auto-dimming.
Alloy wheel sizes will range from 18- to 20-inches, and the new Rhodium white metallic colour will be available across the range.
Measuring 4740mm long, 1890mm wide and 1685mm tall with a 2870mm wheelbase, the Mazda CX-60 is 190mm longer, 50mm wider and 10mm taller than the popular CX-5, with a 170mm longer wheelbase.
For reference, it’s also 32mm longer, 1mm narrower and 9mm taller than a BMW X3, and features a 6mm longer wheelbase. Additionally, it’s 133mm shorter in length and 94mm skinnier than a Volkswagen Touareg, with a 24mm shorter wheelbase.
“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.”
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