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Mazda’s flagship CX-60 was introduced to South Africa in mid 2023, bringing with it Mazda’s latest kodo design language and updated tech. Its largest criticism was the absence of any powertrain variations with the CX-60 only being offered with the 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol motor. There was promise of a new hybrid turbodiesel model in 2024 and we’re happy to report that Mazda SA has made good on that promise, introducing the latest Takumi 3.3-litre turbodiesel last week.
The powertrain is really the main difference that sets the Takumi model apart from the 2.5L Individual or Dynamic though keen-eyed people will spot a slight variation to the grille, the diamond-cut alloy wheels and the INLINE-6 badges on the front fenders.
The new 3.3-litre turbodiesel really does complete the CX-60 range. Where the NA motor felt underwhelming for the package, the Takumi dishes out a dazzling drive. Key traits of the powertrain: Efficiency; power and versatility. The efficiency comes from a 48V mild-hybrid system that sees a starter-generator sit between the in-line engine and the transmission. The system is there solely to compensate and assist the engine where needed especially at low-speeds and start up. Mazda claims 4.9l/100km for the CX-60 but we can’t verify that just yet given our launch drive of around 120km which were spent mainly exploiting the car’s power.
Speaking of which, there’s loads of it, quoted as 187kW and 550Nm, it certainly feels even more powerful than that. This really does change the CX-60’s character and whilst we expected it to feel better than the petrol-powered versions, this turbodiesel feels far superior on the road. The engine exhibits the sound of a turbocharged V6 petrol mill rather than that of a turbodiesel. Coupled to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, the engine really allows for a wide range of use. In-gear acceleration is strong while that torque figure speaks to its pulling power for up to 1.8-tons of unbraked towing as well as the use of its all-wheel drive system on tougher terrain. Whilst we didn’t get to test the Takumi model on anything other than well looked after tar, the ride seems adequately balanced for that sort of versatility. Hill Descent Control is also available on the CX-60.
Beyond this stellar powertrain addition, the flagship Takumi model brims with tech, comfort and safety features. Standout technology is Mazda’s adaptive cruise control and i-ActiveSense systems. Both of these tech features use cameras and radar to scan the surrounding environment and then take measures to mitigate accidents or give driver’s further peace of mind. Other standout features include a plethora of other safety tech as well as the convenience and spoils of a pair of 12 and 12.3-inch display and infotainment screens respectively. BOSE Premium Sound complements the experience also available through Apple CarPlay / Android Auto functions.
Whatever your expectations of what is a flagship SUV from Mazda, this Takumi model has the goods to match its heightened anticipation.
I am particularly enamoured by the Takumi, given a fairly short stint behind the wheel. Despite the attractive powertrain and its inherent benefits, the Mazda CX-60 Takumi is equally attractive on price. Mazda, by its own admission and action, is in a period of transition into a premium market. It’s been coming for a while and when you consider this product, you can see why. With this in mind, compared to its premium counterparts from Germany, Sweden or Japan, this price of R 1 049 200 looks really promising. Compared to a fellow Japanese SUV namely the Honda CR-V which is priced just R10 000 less, this Takumi makes a far stronger statement.
Mazda SA has further plans to introduce the 3-row CX-80 in early 2025 as well as an all-new CX-5 later in the year which will then present its most premium range of vehicles ever sold locally. PHEV’s and EV’s are being considered for 2026 onwards, but Mazda isn’t rushing into these as yet, preferring instead, to play the slower, longer game in this area.
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