Review: From City Streets to Mountain Peaks in the Mazda CX-60
In the heart of South Africa, where the pulse of adventure beats strongest, lies a vehicle that embodies the spirit of exploration and the thrill of the open road—the Mazda CX-60. This SUV is not just another addition to the crowded market; it’s a perfect balance between beauty, performance, and functionality, crafted with Mazda’s unique philosophy of Jinba Ittai.
Jinba Ittai, a Japanese term originally describing the harmony between horse and rider, is the guiding principle behind Mazda’s vehicle design. Every detail, from the seating position to the multimedia interface, is meticulously crafted to prioritise the driver’s experience. As you slip into the driver’s seat of the CX-60, you’ll immediately sense this connection—a natural and supportive driving position, complemented by intuitive adjustments that adapt to your preferences through the Driver Personalisation System.
While the exterior’s deeply sculpted front face and long nose may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the interior is where the CX-60 truly shines. The wide instrument panel and strong shape of the center console create a sense of spaciousness, enhanced by advanced technology like the 12-inch TFT-LCD driver’s instrument binnacle and a 12.3-inch infotainment center display. And let’s not forget the 12-speaker Bose sound system, which transforms every journey into a concert hall on wheels.
Under the hood, the CX-60 3.3D AWD Takumi packs a punch with its 3.3L Turbo Diesel Mild-Hybrid engine, delivering 187kW of power and 550Nm of torque. Whether you opt for the RWD Dynamic or the AWD Individual variant, both promise a perfect balance of power and efficiency, paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox for seamless performance on any terrain.
With the CX-60 as our trusty steed, we embarked on a journey from Johannesburg to the breathtaking Underberg region of the Drakensberg mountains. Along the way, we stopped at some must-visit destinations, each showcasing the versatility and capability of this remarkable SUV.
Our first pitstop was the Mahai Campground in Royal Natal National Park, nestled against the towering peaks of the Northern Drakensberg. Here, amidst the lush surroundings and babbling mountain streams, the CX-60’s 570-liter load space proved invaluable for stowing camping gear, ensuring we had everything we needed for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Continuing our journey through the scenic KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, we made a detour to Nottingham Road to visit Terbodore Coffee, a haven for coffee enthusiasts. With its stylish coffee bar and robust single-origin brews, it was the perfect spot to refuel and recharge before hitting the road again.
No visit to the Midlands would be complete without a taste of Peel’s Honey, a local institution since 1924. As we sampled their golden nectar, we couldn’t help but marvel at the legacy of craftsmanship and dedication that went into every jar—a sentiment echoed in the meticulous design and engineering of the CX-60.
Finally, we reached our ultimate destination: Himeville, gateway to the legendary Sani Pass and the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park. Here, amidst the rugged beauty of the Southern Drakensberg, we experienced the thrill of mountain running at its finest during the Ultra-Trail Drakensberg festival—a fitting finale to our epic journey.
In the Mazda CX-60, every twist and turn of the road became an opportunity for adventure. From city streets to mountain trails, this SUV proved itself to be more than just a mode of transportation—it was a companion, a confidant, and a catalyst for unforgettable experiences. So if you’re ready to embrace the spirit of exploration, there’s no better way to do it than behind the wheel of the Mazda CX-60.
Eagle Mazda is currently offering the Mazda CX-60 3.3D AWD Takumi at a discounted price of R999,200 if financed through Eagle Finance. Visit www.eaglemazda.co.za or call 010 823 8878 to book a test drive.
