When Mazda first launched the Mazda CX-60, the company made it clear that it wanted this SUV to stand apart from the typical family hauler. It was designed to feel sporty, sharp and rewarding to drive much like Mazda’s iconic MX-5 roadster. And in many ways, the first CX-60 lived up to that promise. It had responsive handling, tight steering and a chassis that begged to be pushed hard. But there was a catch. While driving enthusiasts loved it, everyday owners often found the ride too firm, the setup too focused on cornering and the suspension less forgiving on rough roads.
Now, with the 2025 update, Mazda has gone back to the drawing board. The new Mazda CX-60 is not just a facelift. It represents a shift in philosophy — from building an SUV for drivers who love winding roads to building an SUV for drivers who also deal with potholes, traffic jams and long family road trips.
The result is a vehicle that is both brilliant and depending on your point of view, slightly flawed. Here’s an in-depth look at why the new Mazda CX-60 matters, what’s changed and whether this transformation makes it a better all-rounder.
Mazda CX-60 Introduction to the New Update
At its core, the 2025 Mazda CX-60 is a response to real-world feedback. Mazda listened carefully to both customers and critics. Many praised the first-generation model for its sharp driving dynamics, but others admitted that it could be tiring during daily commutes.
Chief engineer Toshiaki Aoki explained the issue perfectly: in focusing on creating a “shining scene of driving” — those perfect moments on winding mountain roads — Mazda had overlooked the other 90 percent of the time when people simply want comfort, quietness and ease of use.
This time, the mission was broader. Mazda didn’t just want an SUV that excelled in one environment; it wanted an SUV that felt capable everywhere. The new Mazda CX-60 has been re-engineered to offer a softer, more balanced ride without losing its sporty DNA.
Mazda CX-60 Suspension and Chassis Upgrades
The suspension is one of the biggest changes to the Mazda CX-60. The original model was calibrated to be snappy and accurate, with little body roll and quick steering reaction. That worked great on calm roads, but it felt abrasive on rougher ones.
Mazda engineers changed the suspension geometry for the 2025 upgrade. They made the chassis bracing more stable and added new dampers that absorb shocks better. The end result is a ride that seems much smoother.
You can tell right away that the new Mazda CX-60 is better when you drive it on broken city streets. Potholes that used to make the cabin shake now make it seem serene and safe. Long rides on the highway also feel smoother because the steering wheel and seats don’t shake as much.
But it’s not just about being comfortable. The strengthened chassis means that the car will still respond confidently when you push it into a bend. The steering is a touch lighter, but it still works well. The body control is better than most of the competition. Mazda has made an SUV that is easier to drive in regular life but yet fun to drive when you want to have fun.
Mazda CX-60 Test at Lang Lang Proving Ground
Mazda didn’t just claim these improvements — it proved them. To showcase the changes, the company invited journalists to the Lang Lang Proving Ground in Australia, a test facility famous for its variety of road surfaces.
At Lang Lang, you can drive on everything from smooth highways to brutal corrugated dirt tracks, from sudden speed bumps to sharp potholes. The point is to replicate every unpleasant surprise you might encounter on real Australian roads.
Driving both the old and new Mazda CX-60 back-to-back was revealing. Where the old model fidgeted and jolted over uneven ground, the new version stayed composed. The difference was night and day. On rough gravel, the suspension soaked up corrugations with ease. On highways, the cabin remained quieter, with less road roar from the tires. And yet, when the track tightened into a set of bends, the Mazda CX-60 still leaned in with enthusiasm, ready to be guided smoothly through each curve.
Mazda CX-60 Racing Driver Impressions
Of course, one of the best ways to understand a car’s handling is through the eyes — or rather the seat — of a racing driver. Mazda enlisted Alex Davison, a veteran of Supercars, Le Mans, Bathurst and Porsche Carrera Cup.
Racing drivers are said to have a sixth sense when it comes to cars. They can feel tiny shifts in balance, grip and suspension movement through their bodies, almost as if the car is talking to them. Davison confirmed what Mazda engineers wanted to prove: the updated Mazda CX-60 has grown up.
In his words, the old CX-60 felt like a big MX-5 — agile and eager, but maybe too demanding in everyday scenarios. The new version feels more like a polished premium SUV. It doesn’t require constant input from the driver, but it still rewards skillful driving when you want to push harder. For most buyers, that’s the perfect blend.
Mazda CX-60 Everyday Comfort and Refinement
The 2025 Mazda CX-60 might be best for everyday comfort. The improvements to the suspension make it far less jarring on bumpy roads, but Mazda didn’t stop there. The manufacturer also worked on making the cabin better.
Extra insulation around the wheel arches and floor makes the noise from the road quieter. Better seals around the windows have cut down on wind noise. The cabin is quieter and more relaxing, especially when driving on the highway.
The seats have also been changed to give you better support. You feel less tired on lengthy trips because the cushions are the perfect mix of soft and sturdy. Families will also like the size; the back row has plenty of legroom, and the cargo capacity is as big as those of competitors.
The inside of the Mazda CX-60 looks and feels high-end. The materials feel comfortable and the dashboard is sleek and uncluttered. The leather is authentic and the trims are polished. The infotainment system is easy to use and has a clear digital display. It also has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a number of driver-assist technologies.
Mazda CX-60 Performance and Driving Experience
Mazda didn’t forget performance entirely. The Mazda CX-60 still comes with strong powertrain options, including hybrid setups that combine efficiency with punchy torque. Acceleration is smooth and confident and the SUV has no trouble overtaking at highway speeds.
On winding roads, the steering feels lighter than before but still precise. The SUV’s balance through corners is impressive for its size and it avoids the “floaty” feeling that plagues some competitors. Drivers who enjoy spirited driving will still find plenty to like here.
Mazda CX-60 Design and Premium Appeal
Mazda’s Kodo design language is still one of the most beautiful in the business and the 2025 Mazda CX-60 is no exception. The tall hood, strong grille and sculpted sides make it look classy and high-end. It looks high-end without being too showy.
The feeling of craftsmanship continues within. The dashboard is straightforward and focused on the driver, with buttons that are easy to reach. The big touchscreen fits in well with the rest of the cabin instead than taking over and the use of wood, leather and high-quality plastics makes it feel very opulent.
Mazda CX-60 Pros and Cons
The Mazda CX-60 facelift, like any other car, has both good and bad points.
Pros:
- A lot better riding comfort and smoothness
- High-quality cabin with robust technology
- Good handling for both fast and slow driving
- A design that is as stylish as European SUVs
Cons:
- Not as sporty as the old model
- Some fans might miss the crisper edge.
- The price puts it near to the luxury brand range.
Most buyers think the improvements are much better than the compromises.
Mazda CX-60 Conclusion
The 2025 Mazda CX-60 represents a clear evolution. Mazda has taken an SUV that was already admired for its sharpness and made it far more livable in the real world. It is smoother, quieter and more comfortable while still retaining enough driving engagement to satisfy those who love being behind the wheel.
If you want an SUV that blends premium quality, everyday practicality, and a dash of Mazda’s famous driving spirit, the new Mazda CX-60 makes a compelling case. For driving purists, it may feel slightly less special than before. For everyone else, it is now exactly the SUV they were waiting for.
Mazda CX-60 FAQs
1. Is the Mazda CX-60 comfortable for long trips?
Yes, the updated Mazda CX-60 has a much smoother suspension and quieter cabin, making it an excellent choice for road trips.
2. Does the Mazda CX-60 still handle well?
Absolutely. While the sharpness has been toned down slightly, the Mazda CX-60 still offers precise steering and confident cornering.
3. How does the Mazda CX-60 compare to luxury SUVs?
The Mazda CX-60 offers many of the same premium features as European SUVs but at a lower price, making it a strong value choice.
4. What engine options are in the Mazda CX-60?
Buyers can choose from a range of engines, including hybrid options that balance efficiency with strong performance.
5. Who should buy the Mazda CX-60?
The Mazda CX-60 is perfect for families and professionals who want comfort, style, and driving enjoyment all in one package.
