New in-line six-cylinder diesel: Mazda CX-60 e-Skyactiv D convinces from the first meter

Mazda has always liked to go its own way when it comes to propulsion.

New in-line six-cylinder diesel: Mazda CX-60 e-Skyactiv D convinces from the first meter

Mazda has always liked to go its own way when it comes to propulsion. While other car brands slim down their range of engines and diesel are slowly becoming rare, the Japanese are relying on new diesel engines. The first driving impressions confirm the powerful efficiency of the diesel engine.

CX-60 is the name of Mazda's new flagship, in which the Japanese are also offering a plug-in hybrid on the European market for the first time. Now the five-door mid-range SUV with a premium claim has been expanded to include two diesel engines. These are not, as one might expect, small-volume machines, but straight-six turbocharged engines. And so that you can recognize the engine, which has become rare in the era of electric cars, from the outside, an "Inline-6" badge proudly emblazoned below the A-pillar.

When developing the 3.3-litre straight-six diesel engine, Mazda's specifications included efficiency, dynamic performance and a long range. Two performance levels with 147 kW/200 hp (from 46,150 euros) and 187 kW/254 hp (from 51,350 euros) will be available from the market launch in March and from June respectively. The longitudinally mounted front engine is coupled as standard to an eight-speed automatic transmission without a torque converter.

Both variants use the M Hybrid Boost system, which recuperates braking energy to increase efficiency and reduce consumption. In the case of the weaker engine variant, the rear wheels are always driven, while the more powerful unit drives with all-wheel drive.

Thanks to the new DCPCI (Distribution Controlled Partially Premixed Compression Ignition) combustion process, the diesel engine is one of the cleanest self-igniters in the world.

The exterior is the latest evolution of Mazda Kodo design, giving the rugged crossover an elegant and dynamic look. The radiator grille is now positioned higher, with the idiosyncratic headlights adjoining it seamlessly to the right and left.

As is typical for Mazda, the interior of the CX-60 has also been designed with Japanese influences. Real wood and high-quality materials paired with Japanese craftsmanship spoil you here. Maple appliqués reflect the Japanese aesthetic of hacho, which strives for asymmetric balance and intentional irregularities. The patterns of the woven fabrics change depending on the incidence of light. Kakenui is the name of this Japanese sewing technique.

All new Mazdas, including the CX-60, have a new cockpit design with a horizontally symmetrical arrangement. The focus is on the driver and the ergonomically optimized driving position allows the driver to concentrate more on what is happening on the road. The occupants of the second row of seats can also enjoy the ride, in the current Mazda model range this is by far the most comfortable rear seat. The trunk is also generously dimensioned, it holds at least 570 liters, with the rear seat folded down there are 1726 liters for luggage.

The first driving impressions confirm the powerful efficiency of the diesel engine. As soon as you start the engine, you will be delighted with the displayed range of 1070 kilometers. So if you put your mind to it, you can easily cover longer distances without stress and also reach most holiday destinations non-stop, if desired.

We test exactly how high the consumption is with the 147 kW/200 hp variant, i.e. with rear-wheel drive, in and around Barcelona. Very old-school, we don't rely on the information from the on-board computer, but fill the 58-liter tank to the brim and after exactly 203 kilometers at the identical pump again until not a drop fits in anymore.

Our test consumption on the motorway, on country roads and through various towns was surprisingly below the information from the technical data, at exactly 4.7 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. A consumption that is not always feasible, however, because with increased driving pleasure, sporty self-shifting with the paddles on the steering wheel and winding mountain roads, this value naturally increases - but only by one to one and a half liters.

Mazda CX-60 e-Skyactiv D - specifications