WATCH: Mazda CX-60 reshapes expectations

This was my first time driving a Mazda, so I had no expectations. I’d heard about the brand’s reputation for elegant design and engaging driving dynamics, but until I got behind the wheel of the 2025 Mazda CX-60, it was all abstract praise and glossy brochures to me. After spending a week with this compact SUV, I can tell you it didn’t just meet my expectations; it reshaped them.

From the moment I slid into the driver’s seat, the CX-60 felt special. Mazda has always been a company that marries form and function, and this model proves that philosophy in real-world driving. What initially impressed me was its large, sophisticated body size that somehow still felt nimble on urban streets and winding country roads alike.

At first glance, you’d think it’s just another crossover, but once you start to notice the details, the balanced proportions, the sculpted curves, the seamlessly integrated lighting, it’s clear Mazda design isn’t chasing trends. It’s honing them. You’ll notice right away how Mazda focuses on the driver experience.

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The cockpit is ergonomically considered, with every button, dial and screen placed where your hand naturally falls. Materials are tactile, soft-touch surfaces, premium stitching and a sense of quality that elevates even routine tasks like adjusting the climate control. What struck me most was how spacious the interior feels.

The CX-60 defies its compact classification with generous headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. Even with the panoramic sunroof open, the cabin preserves a cocoon-like comfort that’s rare in vehicles of this class. Storage space is thoughtfully designed too, including a cargo area that swallows luggage for a weekend getaway without a fuss.

One of the first things I tested was the CX-60’s engine performance and reliability. Mazda has built its engineering pedigree on robust mechanics and finely tuned performance, and the 2025 iteration continues that lineage. With a responsive powertrain and smooth acceleration, the CX-60 feels eager without being anxious. Whether I was merging onto the highway or cruising down residential streets, the car responded to every input with confidence.

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