How the New Mazda CX-60 Reconciles Appeal and the Passion to Drive
The Philippines is the largest CX-60 market outside of Japan.
by Alvin Uy
Published on Jan 18, 2026
Mazda Philippines has officially launched the New Mazda CX-60, marking an important evolution for the brand's premium 5-seater SUV offering in the local market. With comprehensive updates to its chassis, powertrain, and interior comfort, the CX-60 continues to define Mazda's premium philosophy by combining craftsmanship, engaging driving dynamics, and long-term ownership value.
Since its introduction in the Manila automobile market, over 800 units have already been delivered, making the Philippines the largest CX-60 market in Asia outside Japan. Quite a feat and a significant endorsement of Mazda's positioning in a highly competitive segment.
"Since its launch in the Philippines, more than 800 CX-60 SUVs have been sold. This makes the Philippines the largest market for the CX-60 in Asia outside of Japan, a testament to it being well-received by Filipino buyers," said Steven Tan, president and CEO of Mazda Philippines.
"The new CX-60 enriches that by offering new refinements, making it even more unmatched in every way. These are much more than skin-deep, and are part of our commitment to continuous improvement."
Inline6 Appeal in a World of Downsizing
The label Inline6 on the car's exterior
One of the CX-60's most noteworthy traits in 2026 is Mazda's choice to offer two six-cylinder engines: a gasoline 3.3L e-Skyactiv-G and a diesel 3.3L e-Skyactiv-D, both paired with Mazda's sophisticated 48-volt hybrid system. In an era when many brands pivot toward smaller turbocharged four-cylinders or fully electric powertrains, the choice of six cylinders holds distinct appeal.
Six-cylinder engines are inherently smoother and more balanced than four-cylinders, thanks to their perfect primary mechanical balance. This results in reduced vibration, a quieter cabin, and a more refined power delivery. These are qualities that enhance comfort and driver confidence, particularly in premium segments. They also produce strong torque throughout the rev range, making them well suited for SUVs like the CX-60 that are expected to feel effortless in everyday driving and confident on long journeys.
In contrast to some electrified vehicles that can feel disconnected from the driver, the CX-60’s inline-six character, combined with Mazda’s hybrid assist retains the engaging, analog driving experience many enthusiasts still crave. This positioning resonates especially with buyers who value driving engagement and mechanical refinement alongside modern efficiency—preserving the tactile feedback and visceral sensation that define driver-focused vehicles even as the industry shifts toward electrification.
The new Mazda CX-60 in white
Engineering That Matters: Chassis and Comfort
Under the Mazda CX-60's hood
Beyond aesthetic tweaks, Mazda has focused on enhancing the CX-60's mechanical foundation. Built on the brand's Large Vehicle Platform, the new CX-60 features optimized suspension tuning, steering calibration, drivetrain responsiveness, and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) suppression, all designed to elevate ride quality while preserving Mazda's celebrated Jinba Ittai driver-and-vehicle harmony.
The revised rear suspension incorporates softer springs and updated bump stops for better compliance, while firmer front damping and relocated knuckle mounts improve stability over rough roads. Together with recalibrated steering and stability systems, these enhancements contribute to a balanced yet engaging ride that suits both city driving and long highway stretches.
A Premium Cabin Experience
The Mazda CX-60's enhanced creature comforts and interior
Mazda has also improved creature comforts and interior refinement. Upgraded NVH countermeasures include thicker dashboard insulation and added soundproofing in strategic areas to reduce unwanted noise. The cabin design centers around ergonomic excellence and Japanese craftsmanship, with a wide, horizontally oriented instrument panel and driver-focused layout.
Three advanced displays include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a 10.4-inch heads-up display that provides intuitive access to vehicle information. Mazda's Driver Personalization System uses facial recognition and eye-position detection to adjust seats, mirrors, steering, and display positions to match the driver's ideal setup, storing preferences for multiple users.
Why Mazda’s Reputation Matters
Independent industry benchmarks also reinforce Mazda's reputation for quality and dependability, hallmarks that are important considerations for buyers in a market where long-term value is key.
In the 2025 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study, Mazda ranked second among mass market brands, reflecting improved reliability and fewer reported issues across core vehicle systems. Several Mazda models scored within the top three of their respective segments, underscoring the brand's commitment to durable, well-engineered products.
The Japanese domestic market has similarly recognized Mazda's ownership experience. In the 2025 J.D. Power Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) Study, Mazda earned the highest overall ranking among mass market domestic brands and scored highly across key factors like dealer support and delivery experience, while also placing well in related customer service measures.
These recognitions contribute to buyer confidence in Mazda vehicles, particularly at a time when automotive reliability is under greater scrutiny due to rapid electrification and software-heavy architectures across the industry.
Mazda's success with the CX-60 in the Philippines also reflects its broader brand narrative. Rather than chase fleeting trends, the brand has built a distinct identity rooted in driving engagement, thoughtful design, and motorsports enthusiasm. Local Mazda events like the Mazda Fan Fest, racing affiliations, and community-driven experiences have helped cultivate a passionate following that values the unique blend of performance and sophistication Mazda brings to market—an approach noted by automotive commentators as a key driver of the brand's premium positioning in the country.
The New Mazda CX-60 is available in two variants: the New Mazda CX-60 3.3L AWD HEV Turbo at P2,890,000 and the New Mazda CX-60 3.3L AWD HEV Turbo-D Sport at P2,990,000.
Both variants are backed by a 5-year Free Service Plan, a 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty, and a 5-year hybrid battery warranty, enhancing peace of mind for owners.
By combining refined engineering, compelling powertrain choices, and a strong brand reputation backed by recent industry rankings, the New Mazda CX-60 continues to define what a modern premium SUV can be—one that appeals to drivers who value engagement, refinement, and long-term confidence.
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