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2026 Mazda CX-60 Review

Consensus Review6 independent sources

2026 Mazda CX-60

A premium-leaning mid-size SUV from Mazda featuring rear-wheel-drive dynamics and unique inline-six engine options.

6.8/10
✅ 50% Positive (3 sources)⚠️ 33% Mixed (2 sources)❌ 17% Negative (1 source)

How This Score Is Calculated

  • Sources analysed: 6 reviews
  • Explicit scores: 0 sources (weighted 1.5×)
  • Sentiment-only: 6 sources (weighted 1.0×)
  • Split: 3 Positive · 2 Mixed · 1 Negative
  • Raw weighted average: 6.8
  • Formula: Σ(score × weight) ÷ Σ(weight)
  • Review period: 2026 Model Year
  • Final score: 6.8/10 (clamped, rounded to 1 decimal)

Algorithmically calculated from source data. No manual adjustments.

  • Most reviewed featureHandling/Dynamics (6/6)
  • Most praisedSix-cylinder engine
  • Most criticisedRide quality
  • Reviewer consensus levelModerate
Generally RecommendedBest for DriversGood Value

The 2026 Mazda CX-60 positions itself as a premium, rear-wheel-drive alternative to mainstream SUVs, offering engaging driving dynamics and a potent inline-six powertrain. While reviewers applaud its performance and design, they frequently cite a firm, unrefined ride and inconsistent transmission calibration as primary drawbacks. It is best suited for buyers prioritizing driving character over absolute cabin polish or maximum comfort.

🔧 Key Specifications

Specifications sourced from reviewer mentions. Verify with manufacturer for complete details.

  • Engine: Inline-six (G40e) or Four-cylinder (G25)
  • Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
  • Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
  • Infotainment: Simple and intuitive interface
  • Connectivity: Wireless smartphone connectivity

💲 Price Range

Approximately ₹24,50,000 to ₹29,20,000

Prices sourced from reviews. Check current retailer pricing.

📊 What Reviewers Say — Feature by Feature

5 features evaluated across 6 sources.

✅
Driving DynamicsReviewers consistently praise the vehicle's engaging handling and rear-wheel-drive character on smooth roads.
6 / 6
⚠️
Ride QualityOpinions are split, with many describing the ride as thumpy, firm, or underdamped over bumps, despite some improvements in urban environments.
5 / 6
⚠️
TransmissionFrequently described as clunky or unrefined, particularly in traffic, despite being smooth when driven hard.
4 / 6
⚠️
Interior QualityWhile some note high-quality finishes, many reviewers criticize the 'Pure' base trim for feeling plasticky, cheap, and basic.
4 / 6
✅
Engine PerformanceThe six-cylinder engine is widely lauded for its grunt and performance, though the four-cylinder is noted to be less refined.
4 / 6

👍 Key Strengths

  • Engaging rear-wheel-drive driving dynamics
  • Powerful inline-six engine performance
  • Spacious cabin and boot
  • Intuitive infotainment system
  • Effective noise suppression

👎 Key Weaknesses

  • Firm, thumpy, and unrefined ride quality
  • Clunky and unpolished transmission calibration
  • Cheap-feeling plastic interior materials
  • High servicing costs
  • Disappointing rear passenger access

💰 Value for Money Analysis

7.0/10Good Value

Recent price reductions have improved the vehicle's value proposition, making it a viable alternative to traditional mainstream SUVs. However, reviewers note that the base 'Pure' trim lacks equipment found in cheaper competitors.

6 of 6 sources commented on price or value.

⚡ Where Reviewers Disagreed

The following areas saw meaningful disagreement across sources.

  • Ride Quality: 2 sources praised the urban ride/rubber, while 4 sources strongly criticized it as firm/thumpy. Disagreement likely stems from expectations of a premium SUV vs. actual suspension compliance.

🎯 Who This Product Is For

Reviewer recommendations for different target audiences and use cases.

✅
Driving EnthusiastsThe rear-wheel-drive dynamics and punchy six-cylinder engine provide an enjoyable experience on backroads.
3 / 6
✅
Retirees / Budget-ConsciousThe G25 entry-level model offers significant cost savings over the more expensive six-cylinder variants.
1 / 6
❌
Luxury SeekersThe plasticky interior and unrefined ride fail to meet the standards set by premium German rivals.
2 / 6

🛠️ Best Use Cases

  • Weekend Backroad DrivingThe RWD handling and engine performance excel here.Great
  • Urban CommutingHeavy steering and clunky transmission make this less ideal for city traffic.Poor
  • Family TransportSpacious cabin and boot are strong, though rear seat ingress is noted as a struggle.Good

🔀 Alternatives Mentioned by Reviewers

  • Mazda CX-5 — Noted as a more cohesive driving experience and a better value proposition than the CX-60.
  • Toyota RAV4 — A standard-setting mainstream SUV with better equipment levels and hybrid efficiency.
  • Subaru Forester — Offers better standard features and value compared to the CX-60's base trim.
  • Kia Sportage — A strong competitor with more advanced hybrid systems and better equipment at similar price points.
  • Hyundai Tucson — A primary mainstream alternative that is more comfortable and better equipped than the entry-level CX-60.
  • Mitsubishi Outlander — Positioned as a mainstream mid-size alternative that is more accessible than the CX-60.
  • BMW X3 — A premium rival that provides a significantly more sophisticated driving experience, ride comfort, and handling.
  • Audi Q5 — A premium benchmark offering better ride comfort and handling composure than the Mazda.
  • Volvo XC60 — A premium alternative that outclasses the CX-60 in refinement and interior luxury.
  • Volkswagen Tiguan — A direct competitor that matches the Mazda in price segments but offers different refinement characteristics.
  • Nissan X-Trail — Another direct segment competitor frequently compared to the CX-60's entry-level models.

Alternatives sourced exclusively from reviewer mentions.

🛒 Buyer's Guide

✅ Buy This If…

  • You prioritize engaging, driver-focused handling dynamics.
  • You specifically want the performance of an inline-six engine.
  • You appreciate a spacious cabin and simple, intuitive infotainment.

❌ Skip This If…

  • You want a plush, comfortable ride for daily city commuting.
  • You expect a true luxury-grade interior from an entry-level trim.
  • You are sensitive to transmission clunkiness in stop-start traffic.

⚠️ Things to Check Before Buying

  • Test drive the vehicle in both city traffic and on backroads to assess the transmission and ride.
  • Consider upgrading from the 'Pure' trim to the 'Touring' trim for a more cohesive experience.
  • Check the cost of servicing in your region before committing to the purchase.
👍GENERALLY RECOMMENDED

The 2026 Mazda CX-60 is a compelling choice for drivers who value performance and handling, though it lacks the refinement of true premium rivals. While its six-cylinder engine and rear-wheel-drive dynamics are standout features, the firm ride and unpolished transmission make it a less-than-perfect daily driver. We recommend opting for higher trims to avoid the plasticky base-level interior. If comfort is your primary concern, consider the Audi Q5 or BMW X3 instead.

Top Alternative: Mazda CX-5 — Choose this if you want a more cohesive driving experience and better overall value for your money.

Reviewer Perspectives & Source Breakdown

Six-60 - Mazda CX-60 SP SUV review | Tarmac Life | Motoring | Tech | Exp...

The Mazda CX-60 SP is a premium SUV that successfully blends sporty performance, stylish design, and practical interior space. While it features some minor transmission quirks at low speeds, its robust engine and high-quality finish make it a compelling choice in the market.

Comparison: The PHEV version is recommended for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and daily electric-only range, though it may experience similar transmission twitchiness.

Pros

  • Punchy and smooth 3.3-litre six-cylinder engine
  • Sophisticated and elegant exterior styling
  • High-quality premium leather interior finish
  • Ample interior cabin and boot storage space
  • Comprehensive five-year warranty and servicing plan

Cons

  • Occasional transmission twitchiness at low speeds
  • Requires driver adjustment to minimize low-speed fidgeting
  • Lacks a spare wheel
  • Lower-tier audio system compared to top models

Is the entry level option the smartest buy in the Mazda CX-60 line-up? -...

Price: Approx. 2,460,000 INR

The G25 Pure offers a spacious and well-handling entry into the CX-60 range, but it suffers from unrefined transmission performance and a cabin that feels budget-focused. It serves as a decent base model, though it lacks the sophisticated powertrain efficiency of its more expensive siblings.

Comparison: It is positioned similarly in price to a higher-spec Mazda CX-5 Touring AWD but offers less equipment, and competes against the Honda CR-V and Skoda Karoq.

Pros

  • Roomy interior with generous boot space
  • Most affordable service plan in the range
  • Engaging and decent driving dynamics

Cons

  • Fussy and unrefined transmission performance
  • Interior materials feel cheap for the grade
  • Engine struggles significantly outside of city environments
  • Less fuel efficient than hybrid engine options

Just a big CX-5? We put the Mazda CX-60 G25 Touring to the test - drive....

Price: 57,707 INR

The G25 Touring offers a more accessible entry point to the CX-60 range with a premium interior and spacious cabin. However, its sluggish performance and disappointing fuel economy make it feel like an underwhelming step up from the CX-5.

Comparison: It occupies a confusing space in the lineup, struggling to justify the price premium over the smaller, more agile Mazda CX-5 while competing against more rounded alternatives like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Honda CR-V.

Pros

  • Attractive exterior design
  • High-quality interior finish
  • Engaging rear-wheel drive handling
  • Spacious cabin with generous legroom

Cons

  • Engine feels very slow
  • Poor fuel efficiency
  • Gearbox performance is unrefined
  • Lacks MyMazda app integration

Mazda CX-60 Review 2026, Price & Specs | What Car? - whatcar.com...

The Mazda CX-60 is a powerful and well-equipped family SUV with a high-quality interior, but it falls short of premium rivals due to a firm ride and unpolished handling. While it offers good value and strong performance, competitors like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 provide a more sophisticated driving experience.

Comparison: It lacks the driving polish, ride comfort, and handling composure of premium alternatives like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Volvo XC60.

Pros

  • Punchy engine performance
  • Effective suppression of wind and road noise
  • High-quality interior finish
  • Simple and intuitive infotainment system
  • Easy to find a comfortable driving position

Cons

  • Thumpy and firm ride quality
  • Gearbox could be smoother
  • Noticeable body lean during cornering
  • Rear seats do not slide
  • Disappointing rear passenger access

2026 Mazda CX-60 G40e Pure review - drive.com.au...

Price: Approximately ₹27,70,000

The updated Mazda CX-60 is the best iteration yet thanks to lower pricing and improved suspension, though it remains hindered by a clunky transmission and a base trim that feels lacklustre inside.

Comparison: The CX-60 competes with models like the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage, but lacks their more advanced hybrid systems or equivalent equipment levels at similar price points.

Pros

  • Lower price point improves value
  • Spacious cabin and boot
  • Brisk performance and enjoyable handling

Cons

  • Transmission remains clunky in traffic
  • Suspension is still not perfectly smooth
  • Pure grade interior feels cheap and basic

Mazda CX-60 Pure G40e 2026 review - Chasing Cars - chasingcars.com.au...

Price: Approximately ₹27,85,000

The Mazda CX-60 Pure offers a punchy six-cylinder engine and enjoyable handling on smooth roads, but it is ultimately let down by cheap cabin materials and unrefined suspension. While it has merit as a base model, buyers are better off upgrading to the higher Touring trim for a more cohesive experience.

Comparison: It competes with the Volkswagen Tiguan, Nissan X-Trail, and Toyota RAV4; however, the cheaper Mazda CX-5 is noted as being a more cohesive driving experience than the flawed CX-60.

Pros

  • Enjoyable driving dynamics on smooth backroads
  • Spacious and comfortable back seat for adults
  • Improved ride quality in urban environments
  • Powerful six-cylinder engine

Cons

  • Cheap-feeling interior materials and plastics
  • Rear suspension is underdamped and scrappy over bumps
  • Engine harmonics are unrefined and buzzy
  • Slow and cumbersome wireless smartphone connectivity

Mazda CX-60 G25 2026 review - Chasing Cars - chasingcars.com.au...

Price: ₹24,80,000 to ₹29,20,000

The CX-60 G25 offers a $6,000 saving over the six-cylinder model, making it a viable option for retirees who prioritize budget over performance. However, the four-cylinder engine lacks refinement and power, making the turbo-six a superior, more effortless choice for most buyers.

Comparison: It is $9,640 more expensive than the CX-5 G25 Touring, offering a newer design and rear-wheel drive, though it lacks the effortless power of the turbo-petrol six-cylinder variant.

Pros

  • Saves $6,000 compared to the six-cylinder variant
  • Peppier performance than expected when driven hard
  • Smooth and unobtrusive eight-speed automatic transmission
  • Well-balanced handling characteristics
  • Classier interior and design than the CX-5

Cons

  • Over-firm ride quality
  • Lazy drivetrain calibration in Normal mode
  • Poor fuel economy relative to the turbo-six
  • Struggles significantly when carrying a load
  • Heavy steering makes urban driving a chore

2026 Mazda CX-60 G40e Pure review | CarExpert - carexpert.com.au...

Price: Approx 28,00,000 INR

The Mazda CX-60 G40e Pure offers a unique six-cylinder engine in a spacious package, but its interior feels plasticky and lacks basic features standard in cheaper rivals. While the powertrain is a highlight, the overall value is hampered by limited equipment levels.

Comparison: It is cheaper than premium mid-size SUVs but lacks the standard features found in similarly priced mainstream rivals like the Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester.

Pros

  • Lovely six-cylinder grunt
  • Chunkier rubber aids ride comfort
  • Spacious cabin

Cons

  • Plasticky interior materials
  • Expensive servicing costs
  • Rough transmission performance

2026 Mazda CX-60 review | CarExpert - carexpert.com.au...

Price: Starts from 44,240 AUD (~24,50,000 INR)

The 2026 Mazda CX-60 G25 serves as a more accessible entry point to the lineup, offering engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics and refined road manners. While it lacks the punch of the higher-tier six-cylinder engines, it provides a compelling, premium-feeling alternative to traditional mainstream mid-size SUVs.

Comparison: It is positioned as a premium-leaning alternative to mainstream mid-size SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Mitsubishi Outlander, while also serving as a more affordable, upgraded option compared to the aging Mazda CX-5.

Pros

  • Finally features a rear-wheel-drive Mazda SUV
  • G25 variant is $6000 cheaper than G40e
  • Retains the fun character of the CX-60

Cons

  • Base Pure trim interior feels a bit plasticky
  • Noticeably less power than the inline-six engines
  • Fuel consumption could be better

Generally Recommended, Driving Dynamics, Ride Quality, Mazda CX-5, Good Value