If you’re in the market for a mid-sized SUV, the 2024 Mazda CX-60 GT presents a tempting option, especially for those exploring novated lease opportunities. Mazda’s latest addition to their CX range offers a mix of style, performance, comfort, and technology that can make your daily drive a pleasure. However, like any car, it has its pros and cons. Let’s dive into what makes the CX-60 a worthy consideration and where it might fall short.
What I like about the CX-60
- Striking Road Presence and Stylish Design First impressions matter, and the CX-60 makes a strong one. I’m a fan of the new Mazda design language, which gives the CX-60 a bold and aggressive look on the road. The sharp, angular lines, a flatter nose compared to the CX-5, and quad exhausts give it a confident, sporty stance. The 20-inch black wheels, coupled with the dark blue paint, further enhance its road presence, making it a head-turner in the SUV category.
- Smooth Performance from the Inline Six-Cylinder Engine Under the bonnet, the CX-60 GT comes equipped with a 3.3-litre 24-valve inline six-cylinder turbo engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This setup delivers 209 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque, providing smooth, effortless acceleration, whether you’re on the highway or navigating city traffic. Rod appreciates the responsive and refined driving experience, noting that the engine feels much more advanced compared to older six-cylinder engines, with better fuel economy and significantly improved power. Speaking of fuel economy, Mazda claims 7.4 litres per 100 km on the combined cycle, though I saw slightly higher figures of 8.6 litres per 100 km during his testing. While the real-world economy may not quite match the official numbers, it’s still respectable for a two-tonne SUV.
- High-End Interior with Plenty of Tech Inside, the CX-60 GT offers a luxurious cabin experience. The premium leather seats (heated in the front and outboard rear), the soft leather-covered dashboard, and the wood veneer console, add a touch of class. The large touchscreen infotainment system can be controlled via touch or Mazda’s signature rotary dial, and I appreciate the choice, finding the system intuitive after getting used to it. A big plus for tech lovers is the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and wireless charging, along with a digital instrument cluster and heads-up display. The panoramic sunroof also adds to the airy feel of the cabin, while thoughtful touches like the heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control make for a comfortable ride.
- Practicality for Families and Adventurers The Mazda CX-60 is a practical SUV for families, offering plenty of space and versatility. With the rear seats up, you get 477 litres of cargo space, which expands to 1,726 litres with the seats down—ample room for a family holiday or a trip to the hardware store. I like the inclusion of a space-saver spare tyre, a feature that’s becoming increasingly rare in modern SUVs. Additionally, the CX-60’s towing capability is impressive, with a braked towing capacity of 2,500 kg. This makes it suitable for towing a small boat, caravan, or trailer, though you’ll need to be mindful of payload limits if you’re carrying a full load of passengers and luggage.
- Safety Features Galore Safety is always a priority, and the CX-60 doesn’t disappoint. The array of advanced driver assistance systems is impressive, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward and rear cross-traffic alerts, and a 360-degree camera. The five-star ANCAP safety rating is reassuring for both fleet managers and families alike.
What I dislikes about the CX-60
- Heavier Price Tag Than Expected One of the main drawbacks of the CX-60 is its price. While the CX-60 is packed with features, its starting price of $64,990 drive-away (in most parts of Australia) might be a stretch for some, particularly when compared to its smaller sibling, the CX-5. The fully-equipped GT model, which Rod reviewed, comes in at $67,260 drive-away after adding optional extras like the Vision Plus pack and floor mats. For novated lease buyers, this could be a significant consideration.
- Limited Ground Clearance for Off-Road Adventures While the CX-60 has an off-road mode and hill descent control, it may not be the best choice for serious off-road enthusiasts. The 20-inch wheels and relatively limited ground clearance mean it’s more suited to light bush tracks or gravel roads than challenging beach or rock terrain. It’s great for getting to a campsite or farm, but it’s not a full-fledged off-roader.
- Towing Considerations While the CX-60 can tow up to 2,500 kg, you’ll need to be mindful of the ball weight and payload limitations. With a 250 kg tow ball weight, your effective payload reduces to around 301 kg, which could be a challenge if you’re planning to load up the car with passengers and gear. For families planning to tow regularly, this might require careful planning.
- Fuel Economy Slightly Higher Than Advertised Although Mazda claims a fuel economy of 7.4 litres per 100 km, my real-world experience was closer to 8.6 litres. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but for buyers focused on efficiency, it’s worth noting that your fuel consumption might be higher than expected, particularly if most of your driving is in urban areas.
Competitors to Consider
When considering the CX-60, it’s essential to compare it against similar vehicles in its class. Here are a few alternatives:
- Mazda CX-5 G35 GT SP: This sibling to the CX-60 offers a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, 170 kW of power, and a slightly lower fuel economy of 8.2 litres per 100 km. The CX-5 is also around $10,000 cheaper, making it a more budget-friendly option for those willing to sacrifice some power and features.
- Lexus NX 350: The NX 350 offers a 2.4-litre engine with 205 kW and 430 Nm of torque, along with a fuel economy of 8.1 litres per 100 km. However, with a price tag of $95,817 drive-away, it’s significantly more expensive than the CX-60.
Final Verdict: A Top Choice for Novated Lease Buyers
Overall, the 2024 Mazda CX-60 GT is an impressive SUV that offers a blend of style, performance, comfort, and practicality. It’s an excellent option for novated lease buyers who are looking for a mid-sized SUV that stands out on the road and provides a premium driving experience without stretching into the luxury price range. While the price and towing limitations might give some pause, the CX-60’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
For those who prioritise a smooth, refined drive with plenty of tech and safety features, the CX-60 should definitely be on your shortlist.
