2026 Mazda CX-60 Review
2026 Mazda CX-60
A premium-leaning mid-size SUV from Mazda featuring rear-wheel-drive dynamics and unique inline-six engine options.
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
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.
👍 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
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.
🛠️ 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.
📈 Sentiment Trends Over Time
Reviews span the 2026 model year updates. The following changes were detected:
- Overall Value — Recent price drops have made the CX-60 a more competitive and recommended choice than at launch.
- Ride Quality — Despite minor updates, the firm and thumpy ride remains a consistent point of critique across reviews.
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.
