Mazda has clearly decided that being the sensible alternative is no longer enough. The CX-60 Takumi is proof that the Japanese brand wants a seat at the premium SUV table, and judging by what it offers, it hasn’t arrived empty-handed.
As the flagship of the range, the Takumi makes a strong first impression. It gets a bespoke front bumper, a piano black bar-style grille and bright metal accents along the front wings, side trims and window surrounds. The 20-inch black metallic diamond-cut alloy wheels add to its imposing appearance. It certainly doesn’t fly under the radar, but then again, why should it?
Our test car’s Platinum Quartz finish was another highlight. It gives the CX-60 an elegant appearance and works particularly well with the exterior detailing. It looks expensive, which is rather important when you’re asking people to part with more than a million rand.
The interior is where Mazda’s premium ambitions become even more apparent. The cabin feels well put together, with quality materials, thoughtful detailing and a layout that doesn’t require a degree in computer science to figure out.
A 12.3-inch infotainment display takes care of entertainment and connectivity, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included. The driver gets a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display and a Bose sound system. The latter is particularly useful if your passengers have questionable musical taste.
The leather seats are ventilated, which is a welcome addition in our South African climate. Heated seats, however, would have been a nice touch. Apparently, Mazda believes we can survive a few chilly mornings without them.
There is enough room for five occupants, while the boot offers practical luggage space. Overall, the cabin prioritises comfort and refinement, making the CX-60 a pleasant place to spend time, particularly on longer journeys.
Under the bonnet is arguably the biggest reason to consider the CX-60. Mazda has fitted it with a 3.3-litre inline-six turbodiesel mild-hybrid engine producing 187 kW and 550 Nm. Yes, an inline-six diesel. In a world increasingly dominated by smaller turbocharged engines, this is a rather refreshing change.
The engine delivers its power smoothly, with plenty of torque available throughout the rev range. Mazda claims fuel consumption of 4.9 L/100km, although we averaged 6.7 L/100km during our time with the vehicle. Considering this is a roughly two-tonne SUV, that’s still a respectable result.
Power is sent to the wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It feels refined on the open road, although it can occasionally hesitate in slower traffic. At times, it seems unsure whether it wants to get moving or take a moment to think about it.
Out on the road, the CX-60 Takumi feels planted and composed. The six-cylinder engine makes light work of overtaking, and its generous torque means you rarely need to work the gearbox too hard. It isn’t trying to be a sports SUV, nor does it need to be. Its strengths lie in effortless performance, comfort and long-distance refinement.
At R1,101,400, the CX-60 Takumi enters a competitive part of the premium SUV market. It has some established rivals to contend with, but Mazda makes a convincing case with its combination of distinctive styling, a beautifully finished cabin and an engine configuration that is becoming increasingly rare.
The CX-60 Takumi isn’t perfect. A few small omissions and the occasional gearbox hesitation remind you that there is still room for improvement. However, the overall package is difficult to dismiss.
Mazda has delivered a premium SUV with genuine character, a cracking straight-six diesel and enough comfort to make long journeys something to look forward to. It also proves that you don’t necessarily need a German badge to enjoy a rather fancy set of wheels.
