The Mazda CX-60 represents a bold step for the Japanese automaker into the premium SUV segment. Introduced in 2022, this mid-size crossover aims to compete with heavyweights like the BMW X3, Mercedes GLC, and Audi Q5, offering a unique blend of sophisticated design, advanced technology, and efficient powertrains. As Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), it emphasizes performance without sacrificing fuel economy. In this review, we’ll dive into its exterior design, interior luxury, engine options, and tech features, before exploring the practical side: buying and ownership costs in Kenya for a 2022 model. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or a potential buyer, let’s see if the CX-60 lives up to the hype.
Exterior Design: Sleek, Muscular, and Distinctly Mazda
The Mazda CX-60 embodies the brand’s Kodo “Soul of Motion” design philosophy, resulting in a vehicle that looks dynamic even when parked. Up front, a large radiator grille with vertical slats in gloss black is framed by a premium chrome surround, giving it a bold, assertive presence. Slim LED headlights flank the grille, flowing seamlessly into the sculpted hood for a predatory stance. The side profile highlights a long hood, short overhangs, and a coupe-like roofline that tapers toward the rear, emphasizing its rear-wheel-drive bias and athletic proportions.
Measuring about 4.74 meters in length, the CX-60 strikes a balance between compactness and presence. Wheel options range from 18 to 20 inches, with black alloy designs adding a sporty edge. At the back, dual exhaust tips (on select models) and full-width taillights create a wide, stable look. Available colors like Deep Crystal Blue Mica or Soul Red Crystal enhance its premium appeal, making it stand out in traffic. Overall, it’s remarkably agile in appearance, with subtle changes across trims—like the absence of an “Inline Six” badge on four-cylinder variants—keeping the design clean and cohesive.
Interior Luxury Features: Japanese Craftsmanship Meets Modern Comfort
Step inside the CX-60, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels like a step up from Mazda’s mainstream offerings. Drawing from Japanese principles like “Ma” (the beauty of empty space) and “Kaichou” (harmonious mixing of materials), the interior uses high-quality elements such as Nappa leather, real wood veneers, and woven fabrics for a serene, upscale ambiance. The dashboard is clean and driver-focused, with a horizontal layout that avoids clutter—plenty of physical buttons for climate and audio controls ensure intuitive operation without relying solely on screens.
Seating is a highlight: front seats are heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable with memory functions in higher trims, offering excellent support for long drives. The rear bench provides ample legroom and headroom for adults, with a flat floor enhancing comfort. Cargo space is generous at around 570 liters, expandable to over 1,700 liters with seats folded. Luxury touches include a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and premium Bose audio systems in top specs.
The infotainment setup centers on a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and navigation. A head-up display and minimally customizable digital driver cluster keep essential info in view. It’s not just functional— the interior quality rivals premium German brands, with soft-touch surfaces everywhere and a seating position reminiscent of a BMW X5 for that elevated driving feel.
Engine Options and Technological Features: Power Meets Efficiency
The CX-60 offers a versatile lineup of powertrains, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel-drive (AWD) system for confident handling. The star is the PHEV variant: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine (181 HP/261Nm) combined with a 100kW electric motor and 17.8kWh battery, delivering a total of 323 Hp and 500 Nm of torque. This setup accelerates from 0-100km/h in about 5.8 seconds, offers up to 62km of electric-only range, and boasts impressive fuel efficiency—around 47km/L in hybrid mode.
Other options include the 3.3-liter inline-six engines: a turbo-petrol (G) with 280 hp/450 Nm or a turbo-diesel (D) with 250hp/550Nm, both mild-hybrids for better economy. A newer entry-level G25 uses a 2.5-liter turbo-petrol four-cylinder for rear-wheel-drive setups, prioritizing affordability with solid performance. Towing capacity reaches 2.5 tones across the range.
Technologically, the CX-60 shines with Mazda’s suite of i-Activsense safety features: adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera. Advanced driver personalization uses facial recognition to adjust seats, mirrors, and climate based on the driver. Connectivity is seamless via the MyMazda app for remote start and vehicle status. It’s a tech-forward SUV that’s fun to drive, with rear-biased AWD ensuring sharp cornering and stability.
Costs of Buying and Ownership in Kenya: Practical Insights for the 2022 Model
In Kenya, the 2022 Mazda CX-60 is typically imported from Japan or other markets, making it a niche choice for those seeking premium features. Buying costs vary based on trim, condition, and import duties. For a nearly new or low-mileage 2022 PHEV model, expect a total landed price (including CIF Mombasa, taxes, and registration) around KES 6.5 million to 7 million. Base petrol or diesel variants might start lower, from KES 6 million and 6.5 million.
Ownership costs are reasonable for a premium SUV but higher than mainstream models like the CX-5. Annual comprehensive insurance ranges from KES 300,000 to 350,000, depending on value and provider (typically 4-6% of the car’s worth). Fuel efficiency helps keep running costs down: the PHEV achieves about 40km/L combined, translating to roughly KES 15,000-20,000 monthly for 1,000km of mixed driving at current Kenyan petrol prices (around KES 190/liter). Diesel variants are even thriftier, with real-world figures around 20KM/L
Maintenance is key—minor services (oil, filters) cost KES 15,000-25,000 every 10,000km, while major ones (every 30,000km) run KES 40,000-80,000. Spares are available through Mazda dealers in Nairobi, but body parts can be scarce and pricey if imported. Expect annual upkeep around KES 100,000-150,000, including tires and brakes. Compared to rivals, it’s reliable with lower long-term costs than European brands, but factor in potential resale value dips due to its niche status in Kenya.
Sipitali’s Thoughts: A Worthy Contender for Discerning Drivers
The 2022 Mazda CX-60 is a compelling package for those wanting premium luxury without the badge snobbery. Its elegant design, refined interior, potent yet efficient engines, and cutting-edge tech make it a joy to own and drive. In Kenya, while upfront and ownership costs are on the higher side, the value shines through in performance and build quality. If you’re in the market for a sophisticated SUV, test drive one— it might just redefine your expectations.
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