Double Apex was invited to the national ride-and-drive event of the Mazda CX-60 Takumi which was held in the Western Cape.

The Mazda CX-60 is a relative newcomer to the fold. The model leads the Mazda portfolio, especially now that the local subsidiary has discontinued the BT-50 bakkie.  

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First Encounter

The Mazda CX-60 was introduced into the local market around the middle of last year. We didn’t get to experience one first-hand, and this is the first time we’d seen a CX-60 up close.

The nose is quite bluff and the headlamps seem oddly far apart. Interestingly, the styling isn’t close to that of the smaller SUVs in the stable. The dimensions are generous, which creates plenty of the space in the cabin. We’d guess three would fit on the rear bench in comfort. 

Premium Feel

One is met with premium materials and a very high-level of perceived quality in the cabin. The Mazda CX-60 Takumi has soft, Nappa leather upholstery. Both front chairs are electrically adjustable with variable lumbar as well. 

There are a pair of digital screens ahead of the front passengers. The instrument cluster carries all the usual info. Thankfully Mazda has retained physical buttons on the steering wheel rim. The company has also steered (sorry) away from a touchscreen infotainment interface. Instead, there is a controller sited on the centre console. 

New Powertrain

The CX-60 was conceived to move the brand into a more premium space. While the cabin left a positive impression, we were there primarily to experience the new powertrain added to the local line-up. Until now, there was just a single powertrain on offer locally. It is a naturally aspirated 2,5-litre petrol engine offering 141 kW and 261 N.m of torque.

The Mazda CX-60 Takumi flagship, however, is powered by a 3,3-litre inline-six, mild hybrid turbodiesel engine. Mazda, once again, bucks the trend by not downsizing its engines. The new unit produces 187 kW and a healthy 550 N.m of twist effort from 1 500 r/min. An eight-speed automatic transmission delivers power to all four wheels. Mazda says the Takumi can return a combined cycle fuel consumption average of just 4,9 litres/100 km.

On the Road

We got to experience the CX-60 Takumi on a short hop from Cape Town International Airport into the winelands area. Off the bat, we are impressed by the way the CX-60 rides even on the standard 20-inch alloys. It is well damped and the cabin is extremely well insulated. 

The electric motor helps alleviate some of the ‘lag’ usually experienced with larger, boosted engines. Also, the straight-six motor makes a great sound when wound up. It reminded us of a time when this engine configuration was far more prevalent.

Summary

Mazda is a brand that has good recognition in the SA market. However, the company doesn’t enjoy the same level of sales success it once did. The local subsidiary has refreshed the range from the days of the 323s, 626s and Rustlers. 

Will the move upmarket realise more sales? It’s a tough one as the SA new-car market isn’t as buoyant as it once was. The CX-60 range-leader is an impressive product, but is it impressive enough for people to part with over a million rand…?

Pricing

Mazda CX-60 Takumi – R1 049 200