Mazda CX-60 G25 Price Comparison: Is This the Value Gateway to Premium Driving?
Think luxury driving dynamics are locked behind a German badge and a $100,000 price tag? Mazda is challenging that notion with the new CX-60 G25, a car that makes premium rear-wheel-drive engineering suddenly feel within reach.
TL;DR: The new 2026 Mazda CX-60 G25 slashes the entry price into Mazda’s premium SUV lineup to just $44,240, offering the same sophisticated cabin and striking design as its six-cylinder siblings. However, this $6,000 saving comes with less power, a rear-wheel-drive setup, and some hard interior plastics in the base model. It’s a compelling value choice for drivers who prioritize style and premium feel over outright performance.
Key Takeaways
- The CX-60 G25 is $6,000 cheaper than the base six-cylinder model, lowering the range’s starting price to $44,240.
- It uses a familiar 138kW/250Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive—a first for a modern Mazda passenger car in Australia.
- The main trade-off is a significant drop in performance, taking around 10 seconds to reach 100 km/h versus the six-cylinder’s brisk 6 seconds.
- Standard features remain generous, including a 360-degree camera and comprehensive i-Activsense safety suite across all grades.
Mazda’s Strategic Price Move: Making the Premium CX-60 Accessible
When the Mazda CX-60 launched, it was a bold statement of intent. Mazda positioned its new, rear-wheel-drive-based SUV as a genuine competitor to entry-level models from Lexus and BMW. But with a starting price well over $50,000, it remained a premium proposition.
The introduction of the G25 variant is a strategic shift. By slotting in a proven, less complex engine, Mazda has dramatically broadened the CX-60’s appeal. The starting price has tumbled by a staggering $16,560 in just four months, moving the car from a niche premium player into the heart of the competitive mid-size SUV market.
Mazda Australia itself expects this new model to be a hit, predicting it will account for about one-third of all CX-60 sales. This move isn’t just about offering a cheaper car; it’s about inviting a whole new group of buyers to experience the more sophisticated platform, elegant design, and driver-focused engineering that defines the CX-60.
“The addition of the G25 to the CX-60 range ensures consumers have even more choice. With its proven powertrain, elegant design and strong equipment list at a compelling price, it enhances accessibility to our premium SUV.” — Vinesh Bhindi, Mazda Australia Managing Director
Inside the CX-60 G25: What You Get for Your Money
Stepping into the CX-60 G25, you’re greeted by the same handsome, driver-focused cabin as in more expensive variants. Mazda’s signature build quality and intuitive layout are present and correct. However, to hit that attractive price point, some compromises are made, especially as you move through the trim levels.
Powertrain and Driving Dynamics: The Trade-Off for Value
The G25 is powered by Mazda’s workhorse 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine, producing 138kW and 250Nm. This is paired with an eight-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission. The big news is the rear-wheel-drive layout, marking the first time in decades a petrol-powered, four-door Mazda passenger car in Australia sends power to the back wheels.
This setup promises better balance and a more engaging drive than a front-wheel-drive SUV. However, moving the CX-60’s substantial 1847kg mass requires effort from this engine. Official 0-100 km/h times are estimated at around 10 seconds, which feels relaxed rather than quick. Reviews note that the drivetrain is smooth and pleasant in daily driving but can feel “lazy” and reluctant to downshift when more power is needed.
The fuel economy story has a twist: the four-cylinder G25 is actually slightly thirstier than the more powerful six-cylinder G40e, with a claimed 7.5L/100km versus 7.4L/100km.
Grade-by-Grade Breakdown: Pure, Evolve, and Touring
The CX-60 G25 is offered in three grades, with equipment mirroring the higher-powered models.
- G25 Pure ($44,240): The entry point comes surprisingly well-equipped with 18-inch alloys, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and a full suite of safety tech including blind-spot monitoring and front/rear parking sensors with a 360-degree camera. The trade-off is an interior with more hard plastics on the dashboard and doors, and manual, cloth-trimmed seats.
- G25 Evolve ($49,240): This mid-spec adds significant comfort and tech, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a power tailgate, wireless phone charging, and a driver monitoring camera. The seats are upgraded to ‘Maztex’ leather-look upholstery.
- G25 Touring ($52,240): Positioned as the sweet spot by many reviewers, the Touring grade adds genuine leather upholstery, heated front seats, and 10-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat with memory function.
The True Value Test: How the CX-60 G25 Stacks Up
To understand its value, you need to see the G25 in context. The following table compares it directly to its six-cylinder sibling and its closest internal rival, the top-selling Mazda CX-5.
| Model & Specification | Engine & Output | Drivetrain | 0-100 km/h (est.) | Starting Price (MLP) | Key Value Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda CX-60 G25 Pure | 2.5L 4cyl Petrol, 138kW/250Nm | RWD, 8-speed Auto | ~10.0 sec | $44,240 | Lowest entry to RWD premium platform & design. |
| Mazda CX-60 G40e Pure | 3.3L 6cyl Turbo MHEV, 209kW/450Nm | AWD, 8-speed Auto | ~6.0 sec | $50,240 | $6k more for transformational power & AWD. |
| Mazda CX-5 G25 Akera | 2.5L 4cyl Petrol, 140kW/252Nm (current gen) | AWD, 6-speed Auto | ~8.5 sec (est.) | ~$52,650 | Similar price to CX-60 Touring, but older front-drive platform. |
This comparison reveals the core value equation. For a similar price to a top-spec, current-generation CX-5, you can get into a CX-60 G25 Touring. The CX-5 might have more standard features at that trim level, but the CX-60 offers a newer, more advanced rear-wheel-drive platform, a more premium interior design, and a more engaging driving dynamic.
The choice often comes down to philosophy versus physics. Do you value the premium feel, sophisticated layout, and driver-centric engineering of the newer CX-60, or do you prefer the proven practicality, slightly peppier performance, and all-wheel-drive security of the top-tier CX-5?
Your CX-60 G25 Questions, Answered
Is the CX-60 G25 underpowered?
It depends on your needs. If you’re used to turbocharged performance or often carry heavy loads, you’ll notice it lacks effortless power. For relaxed, urban, and highway cruising, it is perfectly adequate. One reviewer summed it up: “Make minimal demands and it achieves all anyone could ever expect”.
Should I choose the G25 or spend more on the six-cylinder G40e?
This is the biggest question. The G40e’s 3.3-litre turbo-six offers 71kW and 200Nm more torque, making it dramatically quicker and more refined. It also comes with standard all-wheel drive. If your budget can stretch the extra $6,000, the six-cylinder is widely considered to be worth every cent for its effortless performance and greater polish.
What about the plug-in hybrid P50e model?
The P50e is in a different league, with a $63,290 starting price. It combines a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for a total of 241kW and 500Nm, offering sports car-like acceleration and a pure electric range of about 76 km. It’s for buyers who want maximum performance and low running costs, with a much higher initial investment.
Is the interior quality good on the base Pure model?
It’s mixed. You still get a leather steering wheel, clear screens, and a solid build. However, to reach the lower price, Mazda used hard plastics on the upper door trims and dashboard where higher grades have soft-touch materials or stitching. The Evolve and Touring grades feel notably more premium inside.
Who is the CX-60 G25 ideally suited for?
Mazda seems to have a clear buyer in mind: value-oriented drivers who desire premium design and rear-wheel-drive dynamics but don’t need blistering speed or all-wheel drive. It could appeal to empty-nesters, urban professionals, or anyone who appreciates a well-crafted cabin and elegant styling over outright horsepower.
The Final Verdict
The Mazda CX-60 G25 is a clever and compelling proposition. It successfully lowers the barrier to owning Mazda’s most sophisticated SUV, offering its stunning Kodo design, premium cabin ambiance, and unique rear-wheel-drive character at a truly competitive price.
Its value is undeniable, but it’s not for everyone. You must accept its relaxed pace and be mindful of the interior finish in the base Pure grade. For many, the smarter move might be to stretch the budget to the G25 Touring for the best interior experience or, if possible, all the way to the G40e six-cylinder for a transformative driving experience.
Ultimately, the CX-60 G25 proves that premium Japanese craftsmanship and engaging driving dynamics don’t have to come with a luxury price tag. It asks a simple question: are you willing to trade peak power for peak value in a beautifully packaged SUV?
So, what matters more to you: the thrill of abundant power, or the satisfaction of smart, sophisticated value?
References:
- 2026 Mazda CX-60 G25 price: New base four-cylinder cuts RRP to new low – Drive.com.au
- Mazda CX-60 G25 2026 review – Chasing Cars
- 2026 Mazda CX-60 G40e Pure review – Drive.com.au
- Mazda CX-60: Price lowered with addition of 2.5L petrol option – WhichCar
