Review: Mazda CX-60 Plug-in hybrid

When I last drove Mazda’s CX-60, shortly after its launch in 2022, it sat at the top of the company’s SUV range. At the time, it was not only the largest vehicle in Mazda’s line-up but also the brand’s sole plug-in hybrid on offer.

A great deal has changed since then. Mazda has significantly expanded its electrified range, adding hybrid versions of the Mazda2, CX-30 and Mazda3, while also introducing two fully electric models, the Mazda 6e and CX-6e. The arrival of the larger CX-80 has also pushed the CX-60 down a rung in the size hierarchy.

For 2025, Mazda has given the CX-60 a subtle refresh. The updates are not dramatic, but they are enough to keep the model feeling current. There are minor revisions to the cabin and a handful of mechanical tweaks beneath the bonnet, while the exterior styling remains unchanged.

That is no bad thing, because the CX-60 is still an impressive-looking SUV. Its long bonnet, prominent grille, sharply angled headlights and large air intakes give it a confident road presence. At the rear, twin sets of exhaust outlets add a sporting touch, while the sculpted flanks and flowing body lines help break up the visual bulk and create an elegant profile.

At launch, there was only one engine option, a 2.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor. Together, they generate a substantial 322bhp. Despite the CX-60’s considerable size and weight, the powertrain delivers strong performance, propelling the SUV from 0-62mph in just 5.8 seconds. Combined CO2 emissions are rated at only 33g/km, and it remains the fastest and most powerful road-going Mazda currently sold in the UK.

Since launch, the plug-in hybrid has been joined by a 3.3-litre mild-hybrid diesel available in two outputs: a 198bhp rear-wheel-drive version and a 252bhp all-wheel-drive model.

Inside, the 2025 updates include black Nappa leather seats, a redesigned dashboard panel and black roof and pillar linings that add a more premium feel. The eight-speed automatic gearbox remains a highlight, delivering smooth, seamless shifts, while the high-mounted selector is intuitive and easy to use.

Mazda’s Mi-Drive system allows drivers to tailor the vehicle to conditions, offering Normal, Sport, Towing and, on all-wheel-drive versions such as the Homura Plus tested here, an Off-Road mode. The Homura Plus also benefits from the Convenience Pack with a 360-degree camera and wireless phone charging, alongside the Driver Pack, which adds numerous safety technologies.

Comfort levels are excellent thanks to electrically adjustable, ventilated front seats with lumbar support. Every CX-60 also comes with a head-up display, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road, a reversing camera and front and rear parking sensors.

A large 12.3-inch infotainment screen sits high on the dashboard, complemented by plenty of physical buttons on both the centre console and steering wheel.

Until charging infrastructure becomes more widespread, plug-in hybrids such as the CX-60 make a compelling case. With a fully charged battery, Mazda claims up to 201.8mpg, although this applies only for the first 39 miles. Once the battery is depleted, fuel economy settles to a still respectable 45-50mpg. To maximise efficiency, however, home charging is essential. Using only a standard domestic socket, I found the battery quickly exhausted, meaning most of my week was spent relying on petrol power.

Mazda CX-60 PHEV

Price: £52,895 (£53,595 as tested)

Engine: 2.5 e-Skyactiv PHEV AWD

Power: 322bhp

Torque: 369lb/ft

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic.

Top speed: 124mph

0-62mph: 5.8 seconds

Economy: 201.8mpg

CO 2 emissions:33g/km

EV range: 39 miles