Mazda is set to reveal the new CX-60 on March 8, but prototypes for the SUV are still out and about undergoing final testing.
The Japanese automaker has made little secret of its desire to move upmarket with a range of premium vehicles based on a rear-wheel-drive platform and powered by plug-in hybrid and inline-6 powertrains. Various patent drawings have shown up over the years and Mazda has also showcased some of the technology destined for the vehicles.
The CX-60 is thought to be the first vehicle based on the new platform. It’s a small SUV targeting the likes of the Volvo XC60 and Genesis G70. It isn’t expected to be sold in the U.S. Instead, we should get a similar but slightly larger SUV called the CX-70.
There will also be an even larger SUV with third-row seats, which will be called the CX-80. All three will be launched within the next two years, Mazda has confirmed. Together with the current CX-9, the SUVs will form what Mazda refers to as its Large Product Group. Though yet to be confirmed, a large sedan possibly serving as a replacement for the Mazda 6 is also expected to form part of this group.
Teaser for 2023 Mazda CX-60 debuting on March 8, 2022
Mazda has confirmed the CX-60 will arrive with a plug-in hybrid powertrain combining the automaker’s 2.5-liter inline-4 with an electric motor for a combined 300 hp. An 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are also expected to form part of the package.
Mazda has previously failed going down the premium route with its Eunos brand of the 1990s. Will it work this time around? We’ll have to wait and see.
Mazda also has the compact CX-50 crossover due in U.S. showrooms later this year as a 2023 model. This model is aimed at buyers with active lifestyles, and shares a platform with the front-wheel-drive CX-30 and MX-30 compact crossovers.
Stay tuned.
Keyword: 2023 Mazda CX-60 spy shots: Premium SUV to be revealed Mar. 8