2022 Mazda CX-60 officially debuts – PHEV AWD for Europe, 6-cyl RWD to launch later
CY Foong · Mar 9, 2022 11:00 AM
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New 8-speed AT
AWD is biased towards rear wheels
6-cyl RWD variants to be introduced later
Mazda is fully banking on SUVs with the launch of its first Large Product Group model, the 2022 Mazda CX-60. Sitting above the CX-5 in Mazda’s profitable SUV line-up, the CX-60 is meant for the European and Japanese market though this global debut is pertaining to the former.
The biggest news out of Mazda’s Large Product Group range might be the use of rear-wheel-drive (RWD) underpinnings that are combined with a range of inline-6 engines. For now, though, the CX-60 that is unveiled for Europe comes with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system and Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup that primarily drives the rear wheels.
Still, this is an important model for Mazda as it is the carmaker’s first PHEV model and the system combines a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine (189 PS/261 Nm) with an electric motor (134 PS/250 Nm).
Combined, the e-Skyactiv unit produces 323 PS and 511 Nm while acceleration to 100 km/h from rest takes 5.8 seconds. However, performance is never part of the CX-60’s agenda as it is electronically capped at 200 km/h.
The CX-60 is paired to a new 8-speed automatic transmission that uses a multi-plate clutch instead of a hydraulic torque converter. Mazda says that the electric motor on the CX-60 PHEV is built into the transmission and works directly on the input shaft for a quicker response.
Besides the e-Skyactiv PHEV unit, Mazda would be introducing its range of 6-cylinder petrol and diesel engines later. Unsurprisingly, these 6-cylinder units are likely to be electrified with both engines reportedly developed with a 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) tech.
Inside, the two-row SUV is as elegant as a Mazda can be and as we’ve seen in the leaked photos yesterday, the CX-60 gives off a strong posh vibe especially with the light-coloured interior as shown in the Takumi variant.
But if you think the light colour will be a hassle to clean and take care of, there’s a sporty black interior as shown in the Homura trim. In Europe, the CX-60 will be available in 4 variants with prices ranging from EUR 47,390 to EUR 52,890 (~RM 216k – RM 241k).
Production of the SUV will begin at Hofu Plant No. 2 on 11-March while the Japan-spec CX-60 will be unveiled in April. Perhaps we might see the unveiling of the more enthusiast-driven 6-cylinder RWD variants then.
Aside from the CX-60, Mazda will also be launching the three-row CX-80 which is also underpinned by the same Skyactiv Multi Solution Scalable Architecture in the next 2 years. For North American markets, Mazda would be introducing the CX-60 and CX-80’s wider twins, the CX-70 and CX-90 also within the next couple of years.
Though Japan and Europe are the definite markets that will be getting the Mazda CX-60 and CX-80 based on their plans, it doesn’t rule out other markets around Asia with Australia being one of those confirmed markets. Malaysia could also receive the CX-60 but it wouldn’t be so soon, so we’ll have to wait and see.
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
