Should you buy one?

The Mazda CX-60 is ideal if you want a large 4×4 family SUV that is safe and spacious for your family. The PHEV is the most powerful, and also has a relatively low BIK for your company car scheme thanks to the 33g/km CO2, but if you’re a private buyer, the diesel is your best option. Compared with cars offered at a similar price, its interior is beautifully trimmed – it’s just a shame that the nicest details are reserved for the top model.

As to how it compares with its rivals, it’s slightly difficult to quantify. For instance, the BMW X3 offers similar technology overall, but that car weighs in at £10k more once equipment is taken into account and feels less involving to drive. Lined up against similarly-priced rivals, it suddenly feels more competitive, with the hugely competent Toyota RAV-4 or Peugeot 3008 outclassed by the new Mazda. Overall it’s likeable, but far from perfect – so one you’ll choose and use in a way that plays to its strengths.

The poor ride quality could easily be a dealbreaker, as could the PHEV and its unrefined nature. However, the excellent diesel engine is a huge selling point for private buyers in our eyes, in a market that’s increasingly dominated by other hybrids or downsized turbo petrol engines.

What we like

The interior design, strong overtaking ability and secure handling with excellent steering are unusual in this class of car. If you care about real-world emissions, the ample electric range should cover most urban needs, while the diesel is a genuinely excellent engine.

What we don’t like

The PHEV is the CX-60’s weakest link, feeling like it was rushed through development thanks to its shunty, clunky disposition. Luckily the diesel more than makes up for this.