Mazda CX-60
2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine combined with a 100 kW electric motor as a plug-in hybrid. Pure electric range around 60 km, system output 241 kW.
241 kW PHEV — Powerful, But With Compromises
The CX-60 PHEV unleashes impressive acceleration with 241 kW system output and surprises with responsive steering and Kinematic Posture Control. The firm ride can be too hard at times, but the handling and dynamics are remarkable for a large SUV. An SUV with a real driving experience.
Engine Weaknesses 5
A software fault in the hybrid control unit can cause the combustion engine to shut down unexpectedly during certain acceleration scenarios. Recall in 2022 for CX-60 PHEV vehicles from the first production months.
Symptoms: Engine shuts off during driving, abrupt switch to EV mode, fault message in the instrument cluster, power loss.
Faulty transmission software can cause unintended gear disengagement. Recall affects CX-60 PHEV and diesel variants from the first production years.
Symptoms: Gearbox shifts unintentionally to neutral, loss of drive, transmission warning light, jerky gear changes.
The transition from pure electric drive to combustion engine engagement produces a noticeable jerk. Occurs at low speeds and under light acceleration. Software updates improve but do not fully eliminate the problem.
Symptoms: Distinct jolt when the combustion engine cuts in, especially at 30–50 km/h; gearbox shudder at low speed.
Vibration through the driveshaft at low revs and light load. Mazda has released modified driveshafts and differential bearings as a fix.
Symptoms: Droning and vibrations in the 1,200–1,800 rpm range, felt through the steering wheel and seat, more pronounced under light throttle.
The transition between regenerative braking and hydraulic braking produces an unfamiliar pedal feel. The brake pedal feels spongy at low speeds.
Symptoms: Soft brake pedal at low speed, sudden 'bite' from the hydraulic brakes, varying pedal feel depending on battery state of charge.
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
Faulty transmission control software can cause the CX-60 to fail to respond to the accelerator after a complete stop. Affects 3,808 German vehicles. KBA recall 14131R/AR043A.
On the CX-60 PHEV, faulty Dash-ESU software can cause HV battery cooling failure, defroster failure and loss of drive. Around 42,000 vehicles affected across Europe.
Lubricant can leak from the steering rack on the CX-60, leading to increased steering resistance. 15,126 German vehicles affected (model years 2022–2023). KBA recall AR001A.
Many CX-60s vibrate and drone in the 50–70 km/h range due to a flawed driveshaft housing design. Mazda issued a service bulletin covering driveshaft replacement, particularly on AWD models.
Numerous CX-60 owners report creaking and cracking noises from the front axle at sharp steering angles. Mazda replaced dampers on some vehicles without fully resolving the issue.
Early CX-60 (2022–2023) have frequent infotainment issues: Bluetooth dropouts, faulty voice control, system crashes and unreliable driver assistance systems. Software updates help in some cases.