2025 Mazda CX-60 3.3D AWD Takumi
If you’re in the market for a mid-size SUV that punches above its weight, the Mazda CX-60 might be a viable option for your list.
Launched in South Africa back in 2023, it’s Mazda’s bold step into the premium segment, aiming to rub shoulders with the likes of BMW and Audi without the sky-high price tags. Built on a rear-wheel-drive platform with options for all-wheel drive, it comes in three main trims: the entry-level 2.5L Dynamic, the mid-range 2.5L Individual AWD, and the top-dog 3.3L Mild-Hybrid Turbo Diesel Takumi AWD at R1 085 100.
And it’s this Takumi that’s our point of discussion today.
Design: Exterior & Interior
Let’s start with the looks. The CX-60 has that sleek Kodo design Mazda’s known for, with a long bonnet, a piano black grille on higher trims, and 20-inch alloys that give it a sporty stance. It’s elegant rather than aggressive, kind of like a toned-down Jaguar F-Pace or Volvo XC60 – if you really want to go down that route.
On the road, it turns heads without screaming for attention, and the build quality feels solid, with no rattles even on pothole-riddled streets.
Inside, it’s where the CX-60 really shines. The cabin is driver-focused, with soft Nappa leather on top models, hand-stitched details, and a minimalist layout that avoids button overload. You’ve got a 12-inch infotainment screen (controlled by a rotary dial – no touchscreen, which some might find fiddly), a digital driver’s cluster, heads-up display, and a premium Bose sound system with 12 speakers.
Space is generous too – rear legroom beats the CX-5, and the boot holds 570 litres, expanding to 1 726 L with the second row of seats folded down. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay, 360-degree cameras, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring come standard on higher trims, plus a clever Driver Personalisation System that adjusts seats via facial recognition.
Smooth 6-Cyl Engine
Under the hood, the Takumi is powered by Mazda’s 3.3L inline-six turbodiesel mild-hybrid engine that produces 187 kW/550 Nm. The diesel is a gem – torquey, smooth, and quick for overtaking on highways, with an 8-speed auto that shifts seamlessly. Handling is sharp and engaging, true to Mazda’s “Jinba Ittai” philosophy, with good feedback through the steering.
Fuel-wise, the diesel claims 4.9 L/100 km but real-world figures will be slightly higher. Off-road mode adds versatility for gravel roads, though it’s no hardcore 4×4 and it’s very unlikely that owners will venture too far off the beaten track.
In Summary
In the South African market, the CX-60 stacks up well against mainstream options like the Hyundai Tucson or Kia Sportage (around R550k-R860k), offering more premium vibes and better dynamics. However, it faces stiffer competition from the Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TDI R-Line 4Motion (R855k) or entry-level BMW X3 (R1.047m).
Drawbacks? The price creeps into premium territory without full hybrid efficiency. Still, for folks wanting a refined daily driver with a bit of zoom-zoom, it’s a balanced choice – not perfect, but justly competitive in our diverse market.
