My GT7 Log: KING OF ROADSTER

The ND-spec Mazda Roadster, known globally as the MX-5, is now officially 10 years old, making it the longest-serving generation in the history of the Mazda Roadster. To celebrate this milestone, Mazda's motorsports division, Mazda Spirit Racing, has introduced a special version of the ND Roadster: the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster. This exclusive car is available for you to drive only in Gran Turismo 7.

So, what's it all about, the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster? What makes it the King of Mazda Roadster?

First revealed as a concept in the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon and then returned a year later as a full-fledged production model, the limited-edition Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster is the culmination not just of the ND-spec Roadster but of the whole lineage. It's the first of Mazda's new Mazda Spirit Racing brand, a brand synonymous with Mazda's motorsports activities.

Mazda Spirit Racing offers aspiring racers an exciting side hustle behind the wheel. Through its Challenge Program, participants will first compete in virtual e-sports using Gran Turismo 7, specifically in the Mazda Spirit Racing GT Cup. Afterward, they can progress to real racing events, starting with the entry-level Mazda Fan Endurance. From there, they can advance to the intermediate-class Roadster Party Race, ultimately having the chance to race in the prestigious Super Taikyu series while representing Mazda Spirit Racing.

The specifications of the MSR Roadster remain confidential since its addition to the GT7 car lineup. However, sources indicate that the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster will feature the same 2.0L four-cylinder engine found in the RF model. This marks a significant development, as it is the first time this engine will be available in the open-top ND model's decade-long history in Japan. While the open-top ND models in global markets have had this engine, it has not been offered in Japan until now.

The limited-to-2200-units, normal Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster has 184PS of power from the said engine, while the limited-to-200-units Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster 12R, seen here, got its 2.0L engine beefed up to 200PS of power, making it the most powerful Roadster ever made. Both are mated exclusively to a 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT.

The optional Sports Package features Advan sports tires, sports suspension, a two-way limited-slip differential, sports muffler, and sports brake system.

To demonstrate the full extent of the ultimate Roadster, I went to Fuji Speedway, the venue of the annual Mazda Fan Festa, where Mazda fans gather to witness Mazda's greatest hits from the legendary 787B race car to its rotary icons like the RX-7.

By Gran Turismo standards, this car has a 0-100 kph time of around six seconds and a theoretical top speed of over 250 kph. I know this because I tested the car on Special Stage Route X to confirm its capabilities. While it is theoretically faster than a European saloon, its speedometer indicates a maximum of only 200 kph.

Anyway, let's roll the tape and find out if the ultimate Roadster's worthy of its prowess.

My attempt around the Fuji Speedway set a 2m12.224s lap time, the best I can do. Still, the 12R proved its worth as the Roadster to end all Roadsters.

From its inception to the present day, the Mazda Roadster exemplifies what a true sports car should be. It prioritizes driving dynamics over sheer speed and power. Although it may not match the acceleration of today's sports cars, its enjoyable driving experience is unmatched. The Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster has pushed the boundaries of the original Roadster in its quest to become the best entry-level sports car that has ever existed.

With the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster ultimately known as the King of Roadsters, what's next for Mazda in the age of the new normal? The world will never know, but in the meantime, let's salivate with Mazda's last true sports car to the last mile. Enjoy it while it lasts.

THE END...?

Suzuki Alto (HA37/97S)/Mazda Carol (HB37/97S) - 2026MY Facelift

The ninth-generation Suzuki Alto has received minor updates for the 2026 model year. As Japan's most fuel-efficient car, it deserves a refreshed introduction to the public with this facelift.

2026 Suzuki Alto

2026 Mazda Carol

The updated eighth-generation Suzuki Alto for the 2026 model year has received a facelift and is priced starting at 1,142,900 Yen, not including additional costs. Suppose your nearest dealership is a Mazda and you're interested in this vehicle. In that case, there's no need to worry—the Mazda Carol, which is its equivalent, has also undergone a similar facelift. The Mazda Carol is available for 1,222,100 Yen, plus additional costs.

2026 Mazda Carol interior

2026 Suzuki Alto interior

The most noticeable revision for the 2026 minor update of both the Suzuki Alto and the Mazda Carol is the front design. The front grille has been elongated, but there are no other changes. The interior remains unchanged, still reflecting the principle of "simple is best."

The turning radius remains at 4.4 meters, but the fuel economy has been updated. The base model is equipped with the R06A 660cc 3-cylinder DOHC 12-valve EPI engine, which produces 46 PS of power and 55 Nm of torque. Paired with a CVT, this model achieves a fuel economy of 25.8 km/L. Additionally, the Mild Hybrid setup combines a 49 PS 660cc R06D DOHC 12-valve VVT engine with a WA04C micro electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, resulting in an impressive fuel economy of 28.2 km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Both the Alto and the Carol are equipped with Suzuki Safety Support, which includes a variety of advanced driver assistance systems. Features such as Collision Damage Mitigation Brake, Pedal Mistake Sudden Start Suppression Device, and others are included, making them certified as "Support Car S Wide."

Updated for the 2026 Model Year, both the Suzuki Alto and its Mazda Carol equivalent proved that they're still the most fuel-efficient petrol-powered cars to go for. The Japanese People's Car just got better.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation/Mazda Motor Corporation

My GT7 Log: Eunos VS Eunos

What do the Eunos Roadster and the Citroen BX have in common? They were both sold at Eunos dealers a long time ago, as Gran Turismo fans from Japan would tell you. Here in Gran Turismo 7, it's time for the showdown between the two Eunos cars.

The tale of two Eunos machines. One is purely an Eunos, and the other is a French hatchback paying a visit to the Eunos stable. How do these two Eunos machines differ? Let's begin with the one everybody knew and loved from the start, the Eunos Roadster.

The first Roadster, designated as NA, debuted in 1989 under the name Eunos Roadster. Eunos was one of the brands from Mazda, alongside Efini and Autozam at the time. Sold worldwide as the MX-5 Miata, the Eunos Roadster gained immense popularity among enthusiasts due to its lightweight chassis. 

The Eunos Roadster is equipped with either a B6-ZE 1,597cc 4-cylinder DOHC engine, producing 120 PS at 6,500 RPM, or a BP-ZE 1,839cc 4-cylinder DOHC engine, producing 130 PS at 6,500 RPM. There are many special editions of the NA Roadster, including the S-Special, V-Special, and J Limited.

Now, let's focus on the Citroen BX, one of the Citroen models that got its way through the Eunos dealership a long time ago. Unveiled at the 1982 Paris Auto Salon, the BX features styling by Marcello Gandini, who worked for Bertone at that time. Despite using bits and bobs from Peugeot, it retained Citroen's signature hydropneumatic suspension that delivered extraordinary comfort even on rough roads. The BX is offered with a wide variety of petrol and diesel engines and, depending on the variant, can be mated with either a 4-speed AT or a 5-speed MT.

The Citroen BX took part in the 1985 World Rally Championship with poor results. The best result it has achieved is a sixth-place finish in Sweden with Jean-Claude Andruet behind the wheel.

In the Japanese market, the Citroen BX was initially offered by its original distributor, Seibu Motor Sales, until Mazda stepped in and the BX was sold in the Eunos dealership in 1989. It drew a similar situation with Nissan for their Volkswagen Santana for the Japanese market and Kia for their Mercury Sable for the Korean market.

To channel my Best MOTORING vibes, I've picked Tsukuba Circuit for a duel between the two Eunos cars, the Roadster and the Citroen BX. Yes, they were both sold at Eunos dealerships a long time ago, and now, I have the chance to decide which one is the best. Let's roll the tape.

And now, the results...

Eunos Roadster - 1m16.007s

Citroen BX - 1m17.591s

A close result, but it's PROJECT EUNOS 1 that defeated PROJECT EUNOS 2.

The Eunos Roadster and the Citroen BX may be entirely different vehicles, but they both embody the essence of Eunos. It's about connecting the East and the West through the world of automobiles. Cultural exchanges are beautiful, and a game like Gran Turismo truly showcases the richness of car culture.

My GT7 Log: The Mazda CX-30

The Mazda CX-30 became the talk of the town since its 2019 debut, the same year as the fourth-generation Mazda 3. Here in Gran Turismo 7, I got the chance to sample the first Mazda crossover SUV of the Reiwa era.

So, what's it all about the Mazda CX-30?

As the second model of Mazda’s next generation lineup that started with the fourth-generation Mazda 3, the CX-30 is all about being the standing ovation of the crossover hatchback market. Although it looks similar to its Mazda3 equivalent, the cladding and increased ground clearance make the CX-30 easy to differentiate.

Under the hood, the CX-30 is offered with a choice of a SKYACTIV-G 2.0L, SKYACTIV-D 1.8L, and the revolutionary SKYACTIV-X 2.0L engine with Spark Control Compression Ignition and M Hybrid. All petrol models are mated with either a 6-speed AT or 6-speed MT, but the diesel variant is mated only with the 6-speed AT.

The CX-30 featured in Gran Turismo 7 is the one with the SKYACTIV-X 2.0L engine with Spark Control Compression Ignition and M Hybrid. Sadly, it's offered with FF configuration, unlike the Mazda3 offered in-game with its i-ACTIV AWD. If only GT7 would add drivetrain swaps in future updates. That seems unlikely but in the meantime...

Let's drive the CX-30 around Brands Hatch to demonstrate its SKYACTIV-VEHICLE ARCHITECTURE and G-Vectoring Control the CX-30 possesses. It won't be an easy task, but calculations suggest that it can complete a full lap around this track within two minutes. Let's see if I can beat the buzzer with this Mazda crossover around the Hatch. Roll the tape.

I managed to lap Brands Hatch with the CX-30 in 1m59.421s. Not much, but it was a sure buzzer-beater like any anti-climactic basketball moments you saw on TV.

Although the CX-30 has a very misleading name that throws a curveball into the Mazda SUV range, it delivers the same promises as today's Mazda 3 does. It’s paramount to the crossover hatchbacks, and if you are asking for the competition, chances are that the CX-30 will be the last one to pop up from the rest.

Like all good Mazdas of today, the CX-30 is one of the new symbols of quiet luxury, and there's no need to show off when you know your worth. It offers almost anything that proves irresistible to all market demographics, from styling, comfort, dynamics, and reliability. Even high-end subdivisions are unsafe from this crossover's appearance.

With the CX-30, you'll know what it's like to "be a driver" when you drive one.

Mazda CX-80

The big brother of the CX-60, the CX-80, is here, completing Mazda's plan to launch crossovers running on a newly developed rear-wheel-drive platform.

2025 Mazda CX-80

Serving as the successor to the CX-8, the first-ever, 3,943,500 Yen, Mazda CX-80 is the flagship of the Mazda lineup and obviously the most expensive in the range. Still, despite the price tag, you can afford one compared to expensive luxury European imports.

2025 Mazda CX-80

Familiar looks aside, the CX-80 is 95mm longer and 50mm wider than the CX-8 it replaces, although it's 16mm lower. With such sizing, there's no doubt that the CX-80 is the "big boss" of the Mazda lineup, a real breadwinner.

2025 Mazda CX-80 interior

The high-quality interior is another one of the CX-80's key points because of the Nappa leather slathered on expensive models, the panorama sunroof, the Mazda Connect system, the optional Bose Sound System, and others. Being a three-row mainstream crossover, the CX-80 has a choice of three second-row seating configurations: a three-person bench seat, two captain's seats separated by a walk-through space, and two captain's seats with a middle console.

Concerning boot space, the CX-80 carries up to 258 liters with the passenger seats present up to 1221 liters with the passenger seats folded down.

2025 Mazda CX-80

The CX-80 is powered by a choice of a SKYACTIV-D 3.3, a 254PS e-SKYACTIV-D 3.3 with M Hybrid Boost, and the range-topping 327PS 2.5L e-SKYACTIV PHEV powertrain. All of these powertrains are mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The one with the e-SKYACTIV-D 3.3 has 18.3km/L of fuel economy, while the 2.5L e-SKYACTIV PHEV has 12.9km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards, and while running on electric power only, it has 67km of electric driving range. Enough range from your humble Muntinlupa home to a weekend trip to the SM Megamall or Okada Manila for some reason.

Although it is heavy to drive for an SUV running on FR architecture, the CX-80 feels slightly more enjoyable to drive than the CX-8 it replaces. Along with the available 4WD system, front double wishbones, rear multilink, ventilated disc brakes, and rack-and-pinion steering, it's about as luxurious to drive as expensive luxury imports or a Hyundai Palisade.

On the topic of safety, the Mazda CX-80 is fully prepared with a wide range of active safety features, such as the Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Cruising and Traffic Support, and many others.

With such dimensions, interior, performance, and technology, not to mention the FR architecture running underneath, there's no doubt that the CX-80 is the "big boss" of the Mazda lineup. It's a shame that there will be no more after this because the FR architecture Mazda made has so many possibilities, but sadly, this is as far as they go. Anyway, while the CX-80 completes the SUV range running on such architecture, there are other plans on the horizon, so watch for it. Who knows what sort of tricks Mazda will come up.

Available Colors: Artisan Red Premium Metallic, Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Melting Copper Metallic, Jet Black Mica, Machine Grey  Premium Metallic, Rhodium White Premium Metallic, Platinum Quartz Metallic, and Deep Crystal Blue Mica.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

My FH5 Log: Peak Roadster

The Mazda Roadster, known in the world market as the MX-5 Miata, celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2024. Of the four generations offered, the ND is considered to be the peak of the Roadster's development.

The fourth-generation Roadster, the ND, was launched nearly a decade ago and is still strong. The ND retains the same Roadster legacy and is a hundred kilograms lighter than the previous NC model and it is powered by a SKYACTIV-G 1.5L petrol engine developing a reasonable 131PS of power and 150Nm of torque while mated with either a Toyota-derived 6-speed automatic or a newly-developed SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed gearbox developed specifically for the new Roadster.

The ND Roadster featured in Forza Horizon 5 is powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.0L petrol engine that the Japanese market never had at launch. Looks like the Japanese Forza fans will wistfully listen to its SKYACTIV-G 2.0L engine sound via ForzaVista. Isn't it a pity that there's one variant of the Roadster that has the said engine and that's the Roadster RF.

Having won from the Cars & Coffee Dry Season Playlist, the Roadster RF is the only Roadster variant with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L engine in it. Of course, the world market versions have both the 1.5L and the 2.0L but the Japan version Roadsters had a 1.5L for the soft-top and the 2.0L for the RF. Either way, they're both mated with either a 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT or a 6-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic gearbox with paddle shifters.

For the 2022MY update, the Roadster ND features Kinematic Posture Control which applies a light braking force on the inner rear wheel during high-G cornering to suppress body roll for optimal steering response feel. The 2.0L SKYACTIV-G, exclusive for the RF, now produces 181hp of power and 205Nm of torque.

With the shortest circuit in Horizon Mexico under my thumb, it's time to see which ND Roadster is the best. Is it the soft top? The RF? Or maybe...

...maybe this? It's the short-lived Abarth 124 Spider. The normal Fiat 124 Spider is based on the same mechanicals as the Mazda Roadster ND but this is the Abarth version. Powered by an Abarth-tuned 1.4L MultiAir engine producing 170PS of power and 250Nm of torque while mated with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It does 0-100kph in 6.8 seconds and onwards to 232kph.

Let's roll the tape...

Here are the results...

MX-5 ND - 1m02.563s

MX-5 RF - 1m01.461s5

Abarth 124 Spider - 1m04.031s

It appears the KPC and the updated SKYACTIV-G 2.0L engine worked wonders for the RF. Touche...

The Mazda Roadster is a prime example of a proper sports car. It focuses on dynamics rather than speed and power. While it's not as fast as today's sports cars, its fun-to-drive character can't be beat. Let's hope the Mazda Roadster continues for many years to come.

EPILOGUE

The Mazda Roadster ND and the Abarth 124 Spider may have spawned from the same nest but in the end, it's the OG that stood tall while its Italian counterpart called it quits. I had to admire such a short-term collaboration between the two and with that, it's time for the twin roadsters for their live show but first...

Ever since the Abarth 124 Spider returned to Forza Horizon 5 in last year's Italian Automotive update, I've decided to summon an old friend of ours. Hey look, it's Aine Yuki. You know? She's one of the Pure Palette girls from Aikatsu Friends. Nah, I guess you've nearly forgotten about her...

The ND Roadster, meanwhile, is feeling sweet and perky as it dons the role of Kiratto PriChan's leading lady, Mirai Momoyama. Suits its personality if you catch my drift.

Aine-chan prefers to chill in the EventLab masterpiece called "Tea & Crumpets" while Mirai-chan tries to outsmart the competition in what's known to be a recreation of a racetrack from a CHORO-Q video game. Anyway, let's roll the tapes!

The girls with pink hair have done it again. I'm so proud of them.

The Mazda Roadster ND is the peak of the Roadster's development. The short-lived Abarth 124 Spider is a tribute to the ND. Together, they're becoming one of the all-time greats.

Here's to 35 more years, Mazda Roadster.

Mazda New Flair Wagon (MM94S)

Following the launch of the third-generation Suzuki Spacia range, it didn't take long for Mazda to borrow one for its Flair Wagon equivalent.

2024 Mazda Flair Wagon

Starting at 1,541,100 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the third-generation model features two different styles to choose from such as the all-familiar normal Flair Wagon and the stylish Flair Wagon Custom Style.

Apart from the revamped exterior design, the renewed interior features a wide array of convenient features such as the multi-use flap, independent rear seat slide, rear seat slide straps, and a personal table for rear passengers, not to mention lots of compartments to place, giving these new models plenty of uses in various situations. 

The third-generation Flair Wagon's Mild Hybrid technology features an Integrated Starter Generator linked to a lithium battery pack collaborating with its fuel-efficient R06D 660cc engine. Thanks to this fuel-efficient measure as well as the HEARTECT platform, the all-new Spacia has 25.1km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards.

The Flair Wagon Custom Style's turbo variant features Power Mode, which makes it more responsive on slopes or when merging onto the highway. It sounds great but the fuel economy is around 21.9kmpl.

For safety, the all-new Flair Wagon comes with a suite of safety features such as a Lane Departure Warning function, wandering alarm function, high beam assist, sign recognition function provided by its optional Omni-directional monitor camera package, advanced car departure notice function, dual sensor brake support, false start suppression, brake support, backward error start suppression, and more.

If you want a third-generation Spacia but the nearest dealership is a Mazda, this is your answer.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

Mazda MX-30 Rotary-EV

Ever since the discontinuation of the RX-8 in 2012, Mazda became a shadow of its former self without the one engine that made it great, the rotary engine. Over a decade later, the rotary engine roars back but not in the way you're expecting.

2024 Mazda MX-30 Rotary-EV

Rotary power is back in the Reiwa era and this time, it's in the form of the MX-30 compact crossover, the game-changer in the Mazda lineup because of its questionable powertrains including the Mazda-first electric powertrain. Yours for 4,235,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, which is slightly cheaper to own than the fully-electric model.

At first glance, it looks and feels just like your typical MX-30, meaning it still has the same RX-8-derived freestyle doors, which is cool, the same minimalist dashboard, the same cork trims, the same struggling access through the rear seats, and the same boot space as usual. However, this is the Rotary-EV model and the only way to distinguish it is by looking at the rotary emblem embedded on the side as well as the e-SKYACTIV R-EV badge at the back. The real has come!

Let's get to know more about the e-SKYACTIV R-EV powertrain, the one that generated a blaze since its world premiere. It's basically a plug-in hybrid powertrain, a first for Mazda, where the newly developed 830cc single-rotor 8C-PH engine is bolted to a 125kW MV electric motor and a 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery. Stealing the idea from Nissan's e-POWER, the rotary engine doesn't power the wheels directly but acts as a generator to charge the batteries, making the MX-30 R-EV behave just like its fully-electric equivalent but with more range compared to its mild-hybrid equivalent.

Thanks to the e-SKYACTIV R-EV powertrain, the fuel economy is 15.4km/L based on WLTC Mode standards and while running on electric power alone, it's good for 107km.

Like the EV Model, the MX-30 Rotary-EV is front-wheel-drive only and it comes with rack and pinion steering, front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam, and front ventilated disc brakes, meaning it behaves just like it for a commoner's car of course but thanks to its R-EV powertrain, it feels like smooth sailing. As for safety, you can expect an advanced i-Activsense with Smart Brake Support with Turn-Across Traffic in addition to a 360-degree camera, Driver Monitoring, and front cross-traffic alert, among many others.

Mazda has a record of putting the signature rotary engine on basic models including the infamous Parkway Rotary 26 bus from the mid-1970s. Consider the MX-30 Rotary-EV added to the list. Although it's not as exciting as the world hoped for, it's decent enough to welcome the rotary engine back in the Reiwa era. Consider it a new beginning for the engine that made Mazda great.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

My GT7 Log: The SKYACTIV-X-Factor

The fourth-generation Mazda 3 is the first Mazda to be powered by the game-changing SKYACTIV-X engine and Gran Turismo 7 gave the world the chance to drive such a game-changing hatchback by all means.

But first, what's it all about the fourth-generation Mazda 3? It was originally known as the Axela from the first one of 2003 to the third-generation model of 2013 but Mazda decided to replace the Axela with the Mazda 3, adopting a new global approach for Mazdas in the present and the future, and it marked a fresh new chapter in Mazda's history because of its design, powertrain, and packaging that are clear signs that it is embarking on a whole new generation of Mazdas.

Inspired by the Kai Concept from the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, the Mazda 3 features an evolved Kodo design, minimalist interior layout, and technologically-advanced features that keep it ahead of its class. At launch, it was offered with a choice of a SKYACTIV-G 2.0L petrol, a more economical 1.5L engine, and a SKYACTIV-D 1.8L diesel engine mated to either a 6-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE AT or a 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT. In Late 2019, the Mazda 3 is offered with the world's first SKYACTIV-X engine. This engine features the new Spark Controlled Compression Ignition which combines the response and economy of a diesel engine and the performance of a petrol engine, all in one clever engine that works in accordance with Mazda's first-ever M Hybrid system, a 24V mild hybrid system that used Mazda's new electric drive technology, which minimizes fuel consumption and results to a much better fuel economy courtesy of its recycled energy recovered during deceleration and powering an electric motor that assists the engine.

The Mazda 3 featured in GT7 is the one with the 2.0L SKYACTIV-X petrol engine mated to a 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT and i-ACTIV AWD. Upon trying it out in the game, the engine that powers it, the i-ACTIV AWD, and the so-called G-VECTORING CONTROL PLUS really mean business for this hatchback and the classic Mazda jinba-ittai approach is still here. Although not a hot hatch material, it still has the Mazda spirit worth enjoying it.

To demonstrate the performance of the Mazda 3's SKYACTIV-X engine as well as its i-ACTIV AWD and G-VECTORING CONTROL PLUS, I went to Watkins Glen, New York, for a one-lap time attack just to prove its worth. Science suggests that it will lap through the whole track within the 2:30 mark and with that, it's time to perform such a scientific experiment. Roll the tape.

After a whole lap around The Glen, I've managed to set a lap time of 2m29.714s, meaning this SKYACTIV-X-powered Mazda 3 actually works, only just.

Thanks to its SKYACTIV-X engine, the fourth-generation Mazda 3 is proven to be the biggest upset in the category and if you're in the mood for searching a particular compact midsize hatchback, chances are you'll run into one of these.

With the Mazda 3, you'll know what's like to "be a driver" when you drive one.

Mazda CX-60

The arrival of the first-ever Mazda CX-60 serves as a turning point for the carmaker because this is the first Mazda crossover to run on a brand-new rear-wheel-drive platform, which caused quite a stir among the fans and insiders alike. So, what's it all about, the CX-60?

2023 Mazda CX-60

Priced at 2,992,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, roughly the same price as its bigger and soon-to-be-replaced Mazda CX-8, but sharply cheaper to own than the BMW X3 and the Mercedes GLC, the Mazda CX-60 is surprisingly a luxury crossover with a not-so-luxury pricetag that demands attention from the motoring world because of what lies underneath, rather than its classic Mazda looks.

2023 Mazda CX-60

Thanks to Mazda's Kodo design, which has been around for ten years, the CX-60 looks nearly identical to its similarly sized brother, the Mazda CX-5, from head to toe, but don't try confusing these two because, despite their similar looks, the divergence underneath them will shock you.

2023 Mazda CX-60 interior

The high-quality interior is another one of the CX-60's key points because of the Nappa leather slathered on expensive models, the Mazda Connect system, the optional Bose Sound System, and seating for five, among many others. As for the back, it's more spacious than the CX-5 despite its rear-wheel-drive platform running underneath, and it even comes with an available power liftgate that allows users to automatically open the rear gate by lifting their foot under the rear bumper. It's all common sense, really.

2023 Mazda CX-60

At launch, the CX-60 is offered with the choice of a SKYACTIV-G 2.5 petrol engine and the first-ever SKYACTIV-D 3.3 diesel engine, all mated to an 8-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic gearbox. The diesel engine can be bolted with a 48V mild hybrid system, which results in 254PS of power and 550Nm of torque, while the fuel economy is up to 21.1kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards. This is the most powerful diesel-powered Mazda ever made, and it looks like the CX-60 is onto something here.

Mind you, there will be a plug-in hybrid variant coming soon, and this first-ever e-SKYACTIV PHEV powertrain mated to an 8-speed AT will be a revolution for Mazda.

The large FR architecture running underneath made the CX-60 drive like never before. It nearly behaves like the BMW X3 while taking through a leisurely weekend drive, and looks like insiders are going to enjoy what this rear-wheel-drive architecture delivers. Coupled with the rack-and-pinion steering, front double wishbone, rear multilink suspension, and ventilated disc brakes, the end result is a crossover that drives well without the drama. Add a 4WD system to it, and it feels capable of driving in the weather.

On the topic of safety, the Mazda CX-60 is fully prepared with a wide range of active safety features, such as the Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Cruising and Traffic Support, and many others.

The first-ever Mazda CX-60 is promising to be a huge win for Mazda because of its rear-wheel-drive architecture that delivers rewarding dynamics without the drama, not to mention a wide range of engine choices and the tech involved, although the stale looks made the insiders mistake the CX-60 for a CX-5. For an X3 competitor without the luxury car price tag, this is basically the most affordable luxury crossover you can buy, and it's a huge freaking win for Mazda.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation