New Mazda CX-60 to offer big-bore turbo-petrol six in Oz
Electrified powertrains only for all-new Mazda SUV, including surprise 3.3-litre petrol straight-six for AustraliaMazda Australia has revealed that its long-awaited new 2023 Mazda CX-60 line-up will be opened by a previously undetailed 3.3-litre inline six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine outputting 209kW/450Nm.
This is the first we’ve heard of this particular powertrain, with all previous communications from the brand referring to a naturally-aspirated 3.0-litre petrol unit fitted with a 48V mild-hybrid system (MHEV).
A Mazda Australia spokesperson confirmed to carsales the free-breathing 3.0-litre would be offered in markets with stricter CO2 emission regulations like Europe, whereas Australia’s laxer legislations allowed for the bigger, gruntier force-fed unit to be given the green light here.
Like its diesel counterpart detailed below, the 3.3-litre turbo-petrol six is paired to a 48V MHEV system and develops maximum power over 5000-6000rpm, while peak torque is on tap over a low 2000-3500rpm.
The almost diesel-like torque band is offset somewhat by a new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission – utilised across all powertrains – which should provide more than enough ratios to ensure the revs stay within that peak range to deliver effortless cruising and fuss-free acceleration.
If you want more torque then you’ll be able to opt for the previously-announced 3.3-litre inline-six turbo-diesel, which with the help of its MHEV system churns out 187kW at 3750rpm and 550Nm over 1500-2400rpm.
The flagship powertrain will of course be the four-cylinder 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that’s good for 241kW/500Nm, making it the most powerful production Mazda powertrain to date… as well as the brand’s first PHEV.
Mazda’s local arm has also confirmed that all locally delivered CX-60s will come with a rear-biased all-wheel drive system regardless of the trim level – Evolve, GT and Azami – or powertrain, opting to not bring the rear-wheel drive (yes, rear-drive) versions Down Under.
Standard equipment highlights across the range will include large-diameter alloy wheels, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, a powered tailgate, auto-folding wing mirrors with heating and auto-dimming functions and advanced keyless entry.
Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said the CX-60 represents a new chapter for Mazda and introduces a series of firsts for the brand, including its platform, PHEV powertrain, rear-biased all-wheel drive and 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,” he said.
Pricing and full specification details for the CX-60 will be announced in the coming months ahead of the model’s local launch in the first half of next year.
Related: All-new Mazda CX-60 starts Aussie testing
Related: Mazda’s beefy new inline-six turbo-diesel detailed
Related: Full details: All-new 2023 Mazda CX-60
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