Hybrid vehicles are the popular stepping stone for many Fleet Managers that have a plan to reduce fleet emissions. The options for purchasing a hybrid fleet vehicle have been limited, though in 2023 there will be more manufacturers are offering a low emission vehicle for fleet and novated buyers.
Mazda has several hybrid vehicles in the range and in 2023 the new CX-60 will be launched with a hybrid-only powertrain line-up.
Leading the range is Mazda’s first production plug-in hybrid model (PHEV), using a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder Skyactiv-G engine mated to a 100 kW electric motor and 355V, 17.8 kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery. System power output totals an impressive 241 kW with peak torque of 500 Nm, making it the most powerful Mazda road car ever produced.
Two newly developed straight-six engines featuring M Hybrid Boost technology – Mazda’s 48V mild hybrid system – will also debut on Mazda CX-60. The first is a 3.3-litre e-Skyactiv D turbodiesel, producing 187 kW at 3,750rpm and a substantial 550 Nm of torque between 1,500 and 2,400rpm. Alternatively, a high-powered turbocharged petrol unit is available, again with a 3.3-litre capacity, delivering 209 kW between 5,000rpm and 6,000rpm and 450 Nm of torque from 2,000 to 3,500rpm.
Each powertrain employs the rear-biased i-Activ All-Wheel Drive system and the new eight-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission, which utilises a multi-plate clutch with an integrated electric motor/generator for fast, responsive shifts and high efficiency.
Three comprehensively equipped Mazda CX-60 model grades will be offered locally – Evolve, GT and the flagship Azami specification.
All three model grades will be highly specified, with a host of equipment fitted as standard across the board, including wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android™ Auto, wireless phone charging, a powered tailgate, exterior powered mirrors with auto-folding, heating and auto-dimming function and advanced keyless entry.
Mazda Australia Managing Director, Vinesh Bhindi said: “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.
“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.
Full specifications and pricing for the Mazda CX-60 range will be confirmed later in 2022.
