Mazda CX-60 2.5 e-Skyactiv-G Mk1

The CX-60 uses an all-new Mazda-developed 8-speed automatic (8EC-AT) without a conventional torque converter. Owners widely report jerky, clunky behaviour at low speeds, particularly during 1-2 upshifts and when decelerating in traffic. The issue is worse in cold weather below 5 degrees Celsius, where the transmission does not immediately select the intended gear, causing delayed reactions when pulling away. Mazda released TSB R049/23 with a TCM software update that improves but does not fully eliminate the roughness. Transmission control unit weaknesses have been reported between 35,000-45,000 km, causing unpredictable shifting and occasional gear sticking. In severe cases, Mazda has replaced the entire gearbox, which is an engine-out job taking approximately three weeks. Full transmission replacement costs approximately €3,000-3,500 at a specialist. Most cases are managed with free software updates, but the underlying behaviour is considered partly characteristic of this transmission design. Later production cars (2024+) have improved calibration software from the factory.

The CX-60 uses a small-capacity 12V battery that struggles to maintain adequate charge. Voltage can drop from 12.7V to below 12V within hours of parking. The charging system does not always deliver sufficient voltage to fully recharge the 12V battery during normal driving, with some owners measuring only mid-13 volts instead of the required 14.4V. Mazda issued TSB R003/23 (July 2023) and recall AP016A with firmware updates for the BCM, ESU, and B-ECM modules. Results vary: some owners report the problem persists even after updates. A replacement 12V battery costs around €150-200 but the underlying issue may return. A trickle charger is recommended for cars not driven daily. This affects all CX-60 variants, not just the petrol.

Early CX-60s were produced with suboptimal shock absorber and stabiliser bar specifications. TSB R086/22 (updated April 2024) addresses ride quality on undulating roads: for cars built up to September 2022, both front and rear shocks plus stabiliser bars are replaced; for cars built September 2022 to August 2023, only rear shocks are replaced. Separately, front and rear suspension bushes squeak and creak, especially at low speeds over bumps and at full steering lock. Mazda's fix involves regreasing the bushes and installing updated dust cover kits, but the squeak often returns as the grease wears off. Some owners report that the suspension can feel overly reactive, with excessive rebound after bumps and poor directional stability at highway speeds above 110 km/h. Out of warranty, a complete suspension refresh including shocks and anti-roll bar bushes costs approximately €800-1,200. Later 2024+ production cars have improved suspension tuning.

Early CX-60 production suffered from numerous software issues. Recall AR058A (affecting cars built March 2022 to July 2024 with the 2.5 Skyactiv-G engine) addresses impaired functionality of the windscreen defroster, seat belt reminder, 360-degree view monitor, and automatic engine start-stop. The Mazda Connect infotainment system freezes, reboots, and drops Android Auto connections. DAB radio intermittently stops working. Mazda has released multiple firmware updates but OTA updates are not available, so all updates require a dealer visit. A quick reset is possible by holding the Mute, Nav, and Back buttons for 10 seconds. Most software issues are resolved at no cost under warranty or the recall. Out-of-warranty dealer diagnostic and reprogramming sessions cost approximately €100-500.

A 2024 recall addressed a manufacturing defect where excessive spring force in the power steering assembly pushes grease away from the gear teeth, causing a sticking condition and increased steering effort. Mazda determined the root cause in December 2023 and reduced the spring force in updated parts. Affected cars have the spring replaced and gear teeth regreased. While no accidents have been reported, the sudden increase in steering effort while driving could be dangerous. Recall repairs are free. Out-of-warranty steering rack repairs run approximately €500-800 for parts and labour. Not all CX-60s are affected, but early 2022-2023 cars should have this recall verified.

Like all direct-injection petrol engines, the 2.5 Skyactiv-G accumulates carbon deposits on the backs of intake valves because fuel is not sprayed over them to provide a cleaning effect. The high 14:1 compression ratio may contribute to deposit formation. Symptoms typically appear after 80,000-120,000 km and include rough idle, cold-start hesitation, and slight power loss. The PCV valve should be cleaned regularly to reduce deposit buildup. Professional walnut blasting to remove carbon costs approximately €400-800. This is a long-term maintenance item rather than a sudden failure, and many CX-5 and Mazda6 owners with the same engine report no issues even beyond 200,000 km with regular oil changes.

Mazda paint is measured at approximately 64-80 microns, nearly half the thickness of some competitors. The CX-60's upright front end is particularly susceptible to stone chips, with some owners reporting significant bumper damage within months of ownership. The premium Soul Red Crystal and Machine Grey colours are especially difficult and expensive to repair due to their multi-layer application. Touch-up paint costs around €30-50 but is difficult to match. Professional bumper respray costs €400-600. Paint protection film on the front end costs approximately €500-800 to apply and is strongly recommended for highway use.