Latest news with #VineshBhindi
The Advertiser
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Price cuts don't mark an end to Mazda's premium push
Though customers haven't flocked to Mazda Australia's new fleet of large, premium SUVs in the way the brand had hoped, it's confident it can still offer a similar experience while cutting local pricing. Australia is Mazda's only major international market to receive all four SUVs on the brand's Large Architecture: the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90. The CX-60 has just received an update to address ride complaints, while also having its price cut by up to $5560 across the board, while new, cheaper variants have slashed the base price to $50,240 before on-roads – and even cheaper, four-cylinder grades will reduce that even further. Similarly, Mazda brought CX-90 prices down by between $6000 and $7000 earlier this year, while the CX-80 was launched last year with a base price of $54,950 before on-roads, undercutting the smaller CX-60 at the time. Despite that, Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi says the plan with its original pricing strategy wasn't just to become a premium brand. "Our objective wasn't only to reposition, it was to expand from where we were," he said. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "So when you look at our portfolio, we've got cars like Mazda 2, CX-3 and CX-30, that are more in the 'volume' zone and sensitive to consumers that have limited budget. "Then we've got CX-5 that's in the middle, and then we've got a step above CX-5. Now, you've got to appreciate that there is a next-generation CX-5 unveiled at some point – I can't tell you when – but that will have multiple powertrains including Mazda hybrid systems." Mr Bhindi added that Mazda's Large Architecture vehicles like the CX-60 complement the CX-5, while CX-70 sits above that as a more niche model. Mazda in turn has two three-row SUVs, the CX-80 and CX-90, which indirectly replaced the old CX-8 and CX-9. "Now where we've adjusted is where we have been pretty much transacting from early on, but it was very obvious that there is an opportunity in the 'entry' zone, hence the Pure inline six-cylinder [new base CX-60]," he said. "And that's a very unique offering; inline-six in either the medium SUV or even going towards the larger is a unique offering, and we think we can carve out a bit of a niche in there. And yes, once we add in the 2.5-litre four-cylinder [for CX-60], that will go more in the 'volume' zone, in CX-5 territory – that's our thinking." In any case, Mazda's sales projections for its Large Architecture SUVs haven't met expectations. Late last year, the brand predicted 550 sales per month for the CX-60, 60 for the CX-70, 650 for the CX-80, and 100 for the CX-90. In April 2025, all models posted roughly half the sales of Mazda's individual targets or less, though the CX-60 performed best with 377 examples delivered. When asked whether Mazda buyers had rejected the higher pricing of the brand's newer models, Mr Bhindi maintained that while sales numbers weren't as expected, they weren't leagues away. "You have to remember, we have been going through a squeeze on family budgets for the past two or three years. Interest rates did what it did, so people became a bit more cautious when we launched this car two years ago," he said. "So, it's reacting to where the market is. If people didn't see the value, or people didn't see the uniqueness about what we have to offer, then I would have seen more pressure on the numbers. "[Customers] like what they bought, but it was very clear that in terms of growing that opportunity, we have to appeal not just to the driver, but to the broader family. "Because in the end, it is an SUV and mainly purchased by young families or couples." MORE: 2025 Mazda CX-60 gets mechanical upgrades, but here's what's missingMORE: Everything Mazda Content originally sourced from: Though customers haven't flocked to Mazda Australia's new fleet of large, premium SUVs in the way the brand had hoped, it's confident it can still offer a similar experience while cutting local pricing. Australia is Mazda's only major international market to receive all four SUVs on the brand's Large Architecture: the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90. The CX-60 has just received an update to address ride complaints, while also having its price cut by up to $5560 across the board, while new, cheaper variants have slashed the base price to $50,240 before on-roads – and even cheaper, four-cylinder grades will reduce that even further. Similarly, Mazda brought CX-90 prices down by between $6000 and $7000 earlier this year, while the CX-80 was launched last year with a base price of $54,950 before on-roads, undercutting the smaller CX-60 at the time. Despite that, Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi says the plan with its original pricing strategy wasn't just to become a premium brand. "Our objective wasn't only to reposition, it was to expand from where we were," he said. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "So when you look at our portfolio, we've got cars like Mazda 2, CX-3 and CX-30, that are more in the 'volume' zone and sensitive to consumers that have limited budget. "Then we've got CX-5 that's in the middle, and then we've got a step above CX-5. Now, you've got to appreciate that there is a next-generation CX-5 unveiled at some point – I can't tell you when – but that will have multiple powertrains including Mazda hybrid systems." Mr Bhindi added that Mazda's Large Architecture vehicles like the CX-60 complement the CX-5, while CX-70 sits above that as a more niche model. Mazda in turn has two three-row SUVs, the CX-80 and CX-90, which indirectly replaced the old CX-8 and CX-9. "Now where we've adjusted is where we have been pretty much transacting from early on, but it was very obvious that there is an opportunity in the 'entry' zone, hence the Pure inline six-cylinder [new base CX-60]," he said. "And that's a very unique offering; inline-six in either the medium SUV or even going towards the larger is a unique offering, and we think we can carve out a bit of a niche in there. And yes, once we add in the 2.5-litre four-cylinder [for CX-60], that will go more in the 'volume' zone, in CX-5 territory – that's our thinking." In any case, Mazda's sales projections for its Large Architecture SUVs haven't met expectations. Late last year, the brand predicted 550 sales per month for the CX-60, 60 for the CX-70, 650 for the CX-80, and 100 for the CX-90. In April 2025, all models posted roughly half the sales of Mazda's individual targets or less, though the CX-60 performed best with 377 examples delivered. When asked whether Mazda buyers had rejected the higher pricing of the brand's newer models, Mr Bhindi maintained that while sales numbers weren't as expected, they weren't leagues away. "You have to remember, we have been going through a squeeze on family budgets for the past two or three years. Interest rates did what it did, so people became a bit more cautious when we launched this car two years ago," he said. "So, it's reacting to where the market is. If people didn't see the value, or people didn't see the uniqueness about what we have to offer, then I would have seen more pressure on the numbers. "[Customers] like what they bought, but it was very clear that in terms of growing that opportunity, we have to appeal not just to the driver, but to the broader family. "Because in the end, it is an SUV and mainly purchased by young families or couples." MORE: 2025 Mazda CX-60 gets mechanical upgrades, but here's what's missingMORE: Everything Mazda Content originally sourced from: Though customers haven't flocked to Mazda Australia's new fleet of large, premium SUVs in the way the brand had hoped, it's confident it can still offer a similar experience while cutting local pricing. Australia is Mazda's only major international market to receive all four SUVs on the brand's Large Architecture: the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90. The CX-60 has just received an update to address ride complaints, while also having its price cut by up to $5560 across the board, while new, cheaper variants have slashed the base price to $50,240 before on-roads – and even cheaper, four-cylinder grades will reduce that even further. Similarly, Mazda brought CX-90 prices down by between $6000 and $7000 earlier this year, while the CX-80 was launched last year with a base price of $54,950 before on-roads, undercutting the smaller CX-60 at the time. Despite that, Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi says the plan with its original pricing strategy wasn't just to become a premium brand. "Our objective wasn't only to reposition, it was to expand from where we were," he said. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "So when you look at our portfolio, we've got cars like Mazda 2, CX-3 and CX-30, that are more in the 'volume' zone and sensitive to consumers that have limited budget. "Then we've got CX-5 that's in the middle, and then we've got a step above CX-5. Now, you've got to appreciate that there is a next-generation CX-5 unveiled at some point – I can't tell you when – but that will have multiple powertrains including Mazda hybrid systems." Mr Bhindi added that Mazda's Large Architecture vehicles like the CX-60 complement the CX-5, while CX-70 sits above that as a more niche model. Mazda in turn has two three-row SUVs, the CX-80 and CX-90, which indirectly replaced the old CX-8 and CX-9. "Now where we've adjusted is where we have been pretty much transacting from early on, but it was very obvious that there is an opportunity in the 'entry' zone, hence the Pure inline six-cylinder [new base CX-60]," he said. "And that's a very unique offering; inline-six in either the medium SUV or even going towards the larger is a unique offering, and we think we can carve out a bit of a niche in there. And yes, once we add in the 2.5-litre four-cylinder [for CX-60], that will go more in the 'volume' zone, in CX-5 territory – that's our thinking." In any case, Mazda's sales projections for its Large Architecture SUVs haven't met expectations. Late last year, the brand predicted 550 sales per month for the CX-60, 60 for the CX-70, 650 for the CX-80, and 100 for the CX-90. In April 2025, all models posted roughly half the sales of Mazda's individual targets or less, though the CX-60 performed best with 377 examples delivered. When asked whether Mazda buyers had rejected the higher pricing of the brand's newer models, Mr Bhindi maintained that while sales numbers weren't as expected, they weren't leagues away. "You have to remember, we have been going through a squeeze on family budgets for the past two or three years. Interest rates did what it did, so people became a bit more cautious when we launched this car two years ago," he said. "So, it's reacting to where the market is. If people didn't see the value, or people didn't see the uniqueness about what we have to offer, then I would have seen more pressure on the numbers. "[Customers] like what they bought, but it was very clear that in terms of growing that opportunity, we have to appeal not just to the driver, but to the broader family. "Because in the end, it is an SUV and mainly purchased by young families or couples." MORE: 2025 Mazda CX-60 gets mechanical upgrades, but here's what's missingMORE: Everything Mazda Content originally sourced from: Though customers haven't flocked to Mazda Australia's new fleet of large, premium SUVs in the way the brand had hoped, it's confident it can still offer a similar experience while cutting local pricing. Australia is Mazda's only major international market to receive all four SUVs on the brand's Large Architecture: the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90. The CX-60 has just received an update to address ride complaints, while also having its price cut by up to $5560 across the board, while new, cheaper variants have slashed the base price to $50,240 before on-roads – and even cheaper, four-cylinder grades will reduce that even further. Similarly, Mazda brought CX-90 prices down by between $6000 and $7000 earlier this year, while the CX-80 was launched last year with a base price of $54,950 before on-roads, undercutting the smaller CX-60 at the time. Despite that, Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi says the plan with its original pricing strategy wasn't just to become a premium brand. "Our objective wasn't only to reposition, it was to expand from where we were," he said. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "So when you look at our portfolio, we've got cars like Mazda 2, CX-3 and CX-30, that are more in the 'volume' zone and sensitive to consumers that have limited budget. "Then we've got CX-5 that's in the middle, and then we've got a step above CX-5. Now, you've got to appreciate that there is a next-generation CX-5 unveiled at some point – I can't tell you when – but that will have multiple powertrains including Mazda hybrid systems." Mr Bhindi added that Mazda's Large Architecture vehicles like the CX-60 complement the CX-5, while CX-70 sits above that as a more niche model. Mazda in turn has two three-row SUVs, the CX-80 and CX-90, which indirectly replaced the old CX-8 and CX-9. "Now where we've adjusted is where we have been pretty much transacting from early on, but it was very obvious that there is an opportunity in the 'entry' zone, hence the Pure inline six-cylinder [new base CX-60]," he said. "And that's a very unique offering; inline-six in either the medium SUV or even going towards the larger is a unique offering, and we think we can carve out a bit of a niche in there. And yes, once we add in the 2.5-litre four-cylinder [for CX-60], that will go more in the 'volume' zone, in CX-5 territory – that's our thinking." In any case, Mazda's sales projections for its Large Architecture SUVs haven't met expectations. Late last year, the brand predicted 550 sales per month for the CX-60, 60 for the CX-70, 650 for the CX-80, and 100 for the CX-90. In April 2025, all models posted roughly half the sales of Mazda's individual targets or less, though the CX-60 performed best with 377 examples delivered. When asked whether Mazda buyers had rejected the higher pricing of the brand's newer models, Mr Bhindi maintained that while sales numbers weren't as expected, they weren't leagues away. "You have to remember, we have been going through a squeeze on family budgets for the past two or three years. Interest rates did what it did, so people became a bit more cautious when we launched this car two years ago," he said. "So, it's reacting to where the market is. If people didn't see the value, or people didn't see the uniqueness about what we have to offer, then I would have seen more pressure on the numbers. "[Customers] like what they bought, but it was very clear that in terms of growing that opportunity, we have to appeal not just to the driver, but to the broader family. "Because in the end, it is an SUV and mainly purchased by young families or couples." MORE: 2025 Mazda CX-60 gets mechanical upgrades, but here's what's missingMORE: Everything Mazda Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Mazda wants more PHEV SUVs for Australia
Mazda Australia currently offers plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains in two of its four Large Architecture-based SUVs, and it plans to offer more. The brand has offered the P50e PHEV powertrain in the CX-60 since its local launch in 2023, following suit with the CX-80 launched in 2024. For context, the CX-80 is effectively a three-row version of the CX-60, much like the relationship between the CX-90 and CX-70. Neither the CX-90 nor the CX-70 are currently available with PHEV tech in Australia, the addition of which would assist Mazda in meeting emissions targets under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) that came into effect on January 1, 2025, with penalties to be accrued from July 1. When asked whether Mazda Australia intended to introduce PHEV versions of the CX-70 and CX-90, the brand's local managing director Vinesh Bhindi said "that's the plan". Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "Now the FBT incentive that related to PHEVs has come off, the way the legislation for NVES is written is really the battery-electric technology that will give you credits at some stage," he told CarExpert. "We see a place for PHEV, and we intend to bring it in, but from an Australian point of view, it's about where the priority should be." The NVES is legislation imposed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce carbon dioxide emissions across their vehicle lineups. All new passenger and light commercial vehicles sold with a mass of less than 4.5 tonnes are covered under the scheme. The carbon dioxide limit (in grams per kilometre) will be reduced every year until 2029, and currently sits at a fleet-wide average of 141g/km for passenger cars and 210g/km for heavy-duty SUVs and light commercial vehicles. As it stands, the CX-90 produces 143g/km in D50e diesel guise, and 189g/km with the G50e petrol engine. For context, Mazda claims a top-spec CX-80 P50e PHEV produces just 64g/km, while a diesel BT-50 ute produces 207g/km. The CX-70 and CX-90 PHEVs offered in North America use a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 141kW of power and 260Nm of torque, mated with a 129kW/270Nm electric motor and 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery for total outputs of 241kW and 500Nm. "That technology is available, it's offered in the US market, but they do have to do more homologation and engineering work to make it available to us," Mr Bhindi told CarExpert. "It's on the list of priorities." PHEV versions of its largest vehicles will soon be necessary for Mazda Australia to avoid the NVES penalty of $100 for every gram of carbon dioxide over the limit, especially as it currently has no pure electric vehicles (EVs) on sale here. The brand does have a handful of EVs overseas, including the 6e electric liftback developed with Chinese joint venture partner Changan. Mazda Australia has confirmed it's working on a business case to bring the 6e here. MORE: Mazda Australia open to Chinese-made electric Mazda 6 replacementMORE: Everything Mazda Content originally sourced from: Mazda Australia currently offers plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains in two of its four Large Architecture-based SUVs, and it plans to offer more. The brand has offered the P50e PHEV powertrain in the CX-60 since its local launch in 2023, following suit with the CX-80 launched in 2024. For context, the CX-80 is effectively a three-row version of the CX-60, much like the relationship between the CX-90 and CX-70. Neither the CX-90 nor the CX-70 are currently available with PHEV tech in Australia, the addition of which would assist Mazda in meeting emissions targets under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) that came into effect on January 1, 2025, with penalties to be accrued from July 1. When asked whether Mazda Australia intended to introduce PHEV versions of the CX-70 and CX-90, the brand's local managing director Vinesh Bhindi said "that's the plan". Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "Now the FBT incentive that related to PHEVs has come off, the way the legislation for NVES is written is really the battery-electric technology that will give you credits at some stage," he told CarExpert. "We see a place for PHEV, and we intend to bring it in, but from an Australian point of view, it's about where the priority should be." The NVES is legislation imposed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce carbon dioxide emissions across their vehicle lineups. All new passenger and light commercial vehicles sold with a mass of less than 4.5 tonnes are covered under the scheme. The carbon dioxide limit (in grams per kilometre) will be reduced every year until 2029, and currently sits at a fleet-wide average of 141g/km for passenger cars and 210g/km for heavy-duty SUVs and light commercial vehicles. As it stands, the CX-90 produces 143g/km in D50e diesel guise, and 189g/km with the G50e petrol engine. For context, Mazda claims a top-spec CX-80 P50e PHEV produces just 64g/km, while a diesel BT-50 ute produces 207g/km. The CX-70 and CX-90 PHEVs offered in North America use a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 141kW of power and 260Nm of torque, mated with a 129kW/270Nm electric motor and 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery for total outputs of 241kW and 500Nm. "That technology is available, it's offered in the US market, but they do have to do more homologation and engineering work to make it available to us," Mr Bhindi told CarExpert. "It's on the list of priorities." PHEV versions of its largest vehicles will soon be necessary for Mazda Australia to avoid the NVES penalty of $100 for every gram of carbon dioxide over the limit, especially as it currently has no pure electric vehicles (EVs) on sale here. The brand does have a handful of EVs overseas, including the 6e electric liftback developed with Chinese joint venture partner Changan. Mazda Australia has confirmed it's working on a business case to bring the 6e here. MORE: Mazda Australia open to Chinese-made electric Mazda 6 replacementMORE: Everything Mazda Content originally sourced from: Mazda Australia currently offers plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains in two of its four Large Architecture-based SUVs, and it plans to offer more. The brand has offered the P50e PHEV powertrain in the CX-60 since its local launch in 2023, following suit with the CX-80 launched in 2024. For context, the CX-80 is effectively a three-row version of the CX-60, much like the relationship between the CX-90 and CX-70. Neither the CX-90 nor the CX-70 are currently available with PHEV tech in Australia, the addition of which would assist Mazda in meeting emissions targets under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) that came into effect on January 1, 2025, with penalties to be accrued from July 1. When asked whether Mazda Australia intended to introduce PHEV versions of the CX-70 and CX-90, the brand's local managing director Vinesh Bhindi said "that's the plan". Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "Now the FBT incentive that related to PHEVs has come off, the way the legislation for NVES is written is really the battery-electric technology that will give you credits at some stage," he told CarExpert. "We see a place for PHEV, and we intend to bring it in, but from an Australian point of view, it's about where the priority should be." The NVES is legislation imposed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce carbon dioxide emissions across their vehicle lineups. All new passenger and light commercial vehicles sold with a mass of less than 4.5 tonnes are covered under the scheme. The carbon dioxide limit (in grams per kilometre) will be reduced every year until 2029, and currently sits at a fleet-wide average of 141g/km for passenger cars and 210g/km for heavy-duty SUVs and light commercial vehicles. As it stands, the CX-90 produces 143g/km in D50e diesel guise, and 189g/km with the G50e petrol engine. For context, Mazda claims a top-spec CX-80 P50e PHEV produces just 64g/km, while a diesel BT-50 ute produces 207g/km. The CX-70 and CX-90 PHEVs offered in North America use a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 141kW of power and 260Nm of torque, mated with a 129kW/270Nm electric motor and 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery for total outputs of 241kW and 500Nm. "That technology is available, it's offered in the US market, but they do have to do more homologation and engineering work to make it available to us," Mr Bhindi told CarExpert. "It's on the list of priorities." PHEV versions of its largest vehicles will soon be necessary for Mazda Australia to avoid the NVES penalty of $100 for every gram of carbon dioxide over the limit, especially as it currently has no pure electric vehicles (EVs) on sale here. The brand does have a handful of EVs overseas, including the 6e electric liftback developed with Chinese joint venture partner Changan. Mazda Australia has confirmed it's working on a business case to bring the 6e here. MORE: Mazda Australia open to Chinese-made electric Mazda 6 replacementMORE: Everything Mazda Content originally sourced from: Mazda Australia currently offers plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains in two of its four Large Architecture-based SUVs, and it plans to offer more. The brand has offered the P50e PHEV powertrain in the CX-60 since its local launch in 2023, following suit with the CX-80 launched in 2024. For context, the CX-80 is effectively a three-row version of the CX-60, much like the relationship between the CX-90 and CX-70. Neither the CX-90 nor the CX-70 are currently available with PHEV tech in Australia, the addition of which would assist Mazda in meeting emissions targets under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) that came into effect on January 1, 2025, with penalties to be accrued from July 1. When asked whether Mazda Australia intended to introduce PHEV versions of the CX-70 and CX-90, the brand's local managing director Vinesh Bhindi said "that's the plan". Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "Now the FBT incentive that related to PHEVs has come off, the way the legislation for NVES is written is really the battery-electric technology that will give you credits at some stage," he told CarExpert. "We see a place for PHEV, and we intend to bring it in, but from an Australian point of view, it's about where the priority should be." The NVES is legislation imposed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce carbon dioxide emissions across their vehicle lineups. All new passenger and light commercial vehicles sold with a mass of less than 4.5 tonnes are covered under the scheme. The carbon dioxide limit (in grams per kilometre) will be reduced every year until 2029, and currently sits at a fleet-wide average of 141g/km for passenger cars and 210g/km for heavy-duty SUVs and light commercial vehicles. As it stands, the CX-90 produces 143g/km in D50e diesel guise, and 189g/km with the G50e petrol engine. For context, Mazda claims a top-spec CX-80 P50e PHEV produces just 64g/km, while a diesel BT-50 ute produces 207g/km. The CX-70 and CX-90 PHEVs offered in North America use a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 141kW of power and 260Nm of torque, mated with a 129kW/270Nm electric motor and 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery for total outputs of 241kW and 500Nm. "That technology is available, it's offered in the US market, but they do have to do more homologation and engineering work to make it available to us," Mr Bhindi told CarExpert. "It's on the list of priorities." PHEV versions of its largest vehicles will soon be necessary for Mazda Australia to avoid the NVES penalty of $100 for every gram of carbon dioxide over the limit, especially as it currently has no pure electric vehicles (EVs) on sale here. The brand does have a handful of EVs overseas, including the 6e electric liftback developed with Chinese joint venture partner Changan. Mazda Australia has confirmed it's working on a business case to bring the 6e here. MORE: Mazda Australia open to Chinese-made electric Mazda 6 replacementMORE: Everything Mazda Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Mazda CX-60 to slide under $50,000 with new base engine
Mazda Australia has slashed the price of its CX-60 mid-size SUV, and now it's confirmed an even cheaper entry-level variant is coming later this year. The new base engine in the CX-60 lineup will be Mazda's naturally aspirated 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine. It's due for release here during the second half of 2025. "This edition will not only further expand our CX-60 offering, but importantly continue to offer good value in the segment while meeting our consumers' motoring needs," Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi told Australian media. "It's a powertrain that's available, complies with our ADR, but it will be a more price-focused offering. "[The price] will start with a four in front… but again it's a bit too early to confirm where it's going to land." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Mazda first confirmed a petrol four-cylinder engined CX-60 for our market back in 2022, but it never eventuated. Instead, the CX-60 arrived here in 2023 with a choice of mild-hybrid inline six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, plus a 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid four-cylinder. In Japan, however, the CX-60 has been offered with the Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre petrol four since launch. It produces 138kW of power at 6000rpm and 250Nm of torque at 3000rpm, and is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base engine is available in other markets with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. All Australian-market CX-60s are exclusively all-wheel drive. For 2025, the CX-60 has received updates to its transmission, steering, suspension, and all-wheel drive and stability control systems, while also gaining a new entry-level Pure variant. However, despite the significant mechanical updates, Mazda has slashed prices across the range, noting these new stickers are around what buyers were paying previously. The range now opens at $50,240 before on-road costs for the G40e Pure (pictured), and a sub-$50k sticker for a four-cylinder version would see it overlap with the smaller (but still mid-size) CX-5. The CX-5 range is currently priced from $36,740 before on-roads for the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder G20 Maxx, and tops out at $55,150 before on-roads for the turbocharged G35 Akera. While Mazda wouldn't detail specifics about the four-cylinder CX-60, it's almost certainly set to have significantly less power and torque than the turbocharged CX-5 when it arrives here later this year. "There's only opportunities, because different things will mean different customers," said Mr Bhindi when asked whether Mazda will struggle to sell two mid-size SUVs simultaneously, noting the CX-60 is bigger overall. MORE: Everything Mazda CX-60 Content originally sourced from: Mazda Australia has slashed the price of its CX-60 mid-size SUV, and now it's confirmed an even cheaper entry-level variant is coming later this year. The new base engine in the CX-60 lineup will be Mazda's naturally aspirated 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine. It's due for release here during the second half of 2025. "This edition will not only further expand our CX-60 offering, but importantly continue to offer good value in the segment while meeting our consumers' motoring needs," Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi told Australian media. "It's a powertrain that's available, complies with our ADR, but it will be a more price-focused offering. "[The price] will start with a four in front… but again it's a bit too early to confirm where it's going to land." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Mazda first confirmed a petrol four-cylinder engined CX-60 for our market back in 2022, but it never eventuated. Instead, the CX-60 arrived here in 2023 with a choice of mild-hybrid inline six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, plus a 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid four-cylinder. In Japan, however, the CX-60 has been offered with the Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre petrol four since launch. It produces 138kW of power at 6000rpm and 250Nm of torque at 3000rpm, and is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base engine is available in other markets with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. All Australian-market CX-60s are exclusively all-wheel drive. For 2025, the CX-60 has received updates to its transmission, steering, suspension, and all-wheel drive and stability control systems, while also gaining a new entry-level Pure variant. However, despite the significant mechanical updates, Mazda has slashed prices across the range, noting these new stickers are around what buyers were paying previously. The range now opens at $50,240 before on-road costs for the G40e Pure (pictured), and a sub-$50k sticker for a four-cylinder version would see it overlap with the smaller (but still mid-size) CX-5. The CX-5 range is currently priced from $36,740 before on-roads for the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder G20 Maxx, and tops out at $55,150 before on-roads for the turbocharged G35 Akera. While Mazda wouldn't detail specifics about the four-cylinder CX-60, it's almost certainly set to have significantly less power and torque than the turbocharged CX-5 when it arrives here later this year. "There's only opportunities, because different things will mean different customers," said Mr Bhindi when asked whether Mazda will struggle to sell two mid-size SUVs simultaneously, noting the CX-60 is bigger overall. MORE: Everything Mazda CX-60 Content originally sourced from: Mazda Australia has slashed the price of its CX-60 mid-size SUV, and now it's confirmed an even cheaper entry-level variant is coming later this year. The new base engine in the CX-60 lineup will be Mazda's naturally aspirated 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine. It's due for release here during the second half of 2025. "This edition will not only further expand our CX-60 offering, but importantly continue to offer good value in the segment while meeting our consumers' motoring needs," Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi told Australian media. "It's a powertrain that's available, complies with our ADR, but it will be a more price-focused offering. "[The price] will start with a four in front… but again it's a bit too early to confirm where it's going to land." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Mazda first confirmed a petrol four-cylinder engined CX-60 for our market back in 2022, but it never eventuated. Instead, the CX-60 arrived here in 2023 with a choice of mild-hybrid inline six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, plus a 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid four-cylinder. In Japan, however, the CX-60 has been offered with the Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre petrol four since launch. It produces 138kW of power at 6000rpm and 250Nm of torque at 3000rpm, and is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base engine is available in other markets with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. All Australian-market CX-60s are exclusively all-wheel drive. For 2025, the CX-60 has received updates to its transmission, steering, suspension, and all-wheel drive and stability control systems, while also gaining a new entry-level Pure variant. However, despite the significant mechanical updates, Mazda has slashed prices across the range, noting these new stickers are around what buyers were paying previously. The range now opens at $50,240 before on-road costs for the G40e Pure (pictured), and a sub-$50k sticker for a four-cylinder version would see it overlap with the smaller (but still mid-size) CX-5. The CX-5 range is currently priced from $36,740 before on-roads for the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder G20 Maxx, and tops out at $55,150 before on-roads for the turbocharged G35 Akera. While Mazda wouldn't detail specifics about the four-cylinder CX-60, it's almost certainly set to have significantly less power and torque than the turbocharged CX-5 when it arrives here later this year. "There's only opportunities, because different things will mean different customers," said Mr Bhindi when asked whether Mazda will struggle to sell two mid-size SUVs simultaneously, noting the CX-60 is bigger overall. MORE: Everything Mazda CX-60 Content originally sourced from: Mazda Australia has slashed the price of its CX-60 mid-size SUV, and now it's confirmed an even cheaper entry-level variant is coming later this year. The new base engine in the CX-60 lineup will be Mazda's naturally aspirated 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine. It's due for release here during the second half of 2025. "This edition will not only further expand our CX-60 offering, but importantly continue to offer good value in the segment while meeting our consumers' motoring needs," Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi told Australian media. "It's a powertrain that's available, complies with our ADR, but it will be a more price-focused offering. "[The price] will start with a four in front… but again it's a bit too early to confirm where it's going to land." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Mazda first confirmed a petrol four-cylinder engined CX-60 for our market back in 2022, but it never eventuated. Instead, the CX-60 arrived here in 2023 with a choice of mild-hybrid inline six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, plus a 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid four-cylinder. In Japan, however, the CX-60 has been offered with the Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre petrol four since launch. It produces 138kW of power at 6000rpm and 250Nm of torque at 3000rpm, and is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base engine is available in other markets with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. All Australian-market CX-60s are exclusively all-wheel drive. For 2025, the CX-60 has received updates to its transmission, steering, suspension, and all-wheel drive and stability control systems, while also gaining a new entry-level Pure variant. However, despite the significant mechanical updates, Mazda has slashed prices across the range, noting these new stickers are around what buyers were paying previously. The range now opens at $50,240 before on-road costs for the G40e Pure (pictured), and a sub-$50k sticker for a four-cylinder version would see it overlap with the smaller (but still mid-size) CX-5. The CX-5 range is currently priced from $36,740 before on-roads for the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder G20 Maxx, and tops out at $55,150 before on-roads for the turbocharged G35 Akera. While Mazda wouldn't detail specifics about the four-cylinder CX-60, it's almost certainly set to have significantly less power and torque than the turbocharged CX-5 when it arrives here later this year. "There's only opportunities, because different things will mean different customers," said Mr Bhindi when asked whether Mazda will struggle to sell two mid-size SUVs simultaneously, noting the CX-60 is bigger overall. MORE: Everything Mazda CX-60 Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Mazda 6e: Mid-size EV edges closer to Australian launch
Mazda has now revealed two electric vehicles (EVs) developed with its Chinese joint venture partner Changan, but neither has been locked in for an Australian launch just yet. The Japanese automaker revealed the EZ-6 mid-size liftback at the 2024 Shanghai motor show, with the export version – badged 6e – debuting in Brussels earlier this year when it was also confirmed for right-hand drive. The EZ-60 mid-size electric SUV was subsequently revealed at this year's Shanghai motor show. "At this stage, the only one we're building a business case for, because it's available in right-hand drive, is the Mazda 6e, and we're only doing a business case," confirmed Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi to Australian media, stressing it wasn't a foregone conclusion. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "Australia offers the most amount of models, as many as we can – when you look at the global portfolio, we offer the most [of any market globally] – so we don't want to abandon that strategy. "[And] I think if the government is really determined to reduce our carbon footprint from Australia, I can only expect they will go stronger and harder towards battery electric-powered cars. "Mazda will offer it if we can." The 6e is launching in the UK market in 2026. It's also set to be offered in Thailand, another RHD market. "We're looking at EV as a business case at this stage," said Mr Bhindi when asked whether Mazda Australia was looking at just the EV or the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) version also offered in China. "We're building a business case for EV, and if that then allows us to bring the car in and potentially expand, then we can always look at that." The Chinese-market EZ-6's EREV powertrain features a 1.5-litre petrol engine that sends power not to the wheels but rather the 18.9kWh or 28.4kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which in turn powers the 160kW/320Nm electric motor. Claimed electric-only range is between 130km and 200km on the CLTC cycle. The 6e is around 50mm longer and 50mm wider than the Mazda 6 sedan, which along with its wagon counterpart was recently discontinued in Australia. It's being offered in Europe with a single-motor rear-wheel drive electric powertrain producing 190kW of power and 320Nm of torque. The standard 68.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery can be charged at up to 165kW, and offers 479km of range under the WLTP cycle. The larger 80kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery can only support 90kW DC fast-charging, but offers 552km of range. With this battery, the electric motor's power output drops slightly to 180kW. Energy consumption is essentially identical with either battery specified, with figures of 16.6kWh/100km and 16.5kWh/100km, respectively. All 6e models feature a 400V electrical system. In European markets such as Germany, the 6e is offered in either Takumi or Takumi Plus grades. Both come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and heated, ventilated and power-adjustable front seats. The Takumi Plus adds a tan interior, Nappa leather upholstery, and a power sunblind. While the 6e has been confirmed for RHD, the EZ-60 hasn't yet. "At the moment, the vehicle's only available for the China market, but we're really excited with the direction of the design and technology," said Daniel Wakelim, Mazda Australia national manager of product and business strategy. "It would probably sit in the large SUV segment if we were to bring it to Australia." While the EZ-60 electric SUV was revealed at this year's Shanghai show, Mazda has stopped short of releasing full specifications. A Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) filing shared by Car News China, however, has revealed the two-row EZ-60 SUV measures 4850mm long, 1935mm wide and 1620mm tall on a 2902mm wheelbase. That makes it 58mm longer than a Tesla Model Y on a 12mm longer wheelbase. The electric version has an LFP battery and a 190kW rear-mounted electric motor, while the EREV version mates a 72kW 1.5-litre engine with a 190kW electric motor and a 31.73kWh LFP battery for 160km of electric-only range. Mazda Australia has only offered one EV before, with a battery-powered version of the MX-30. The slow-selling model was axed in 2023, and was recently discontinued in the UK and Europe as well. Content originally sourced from: Mazda has now revealed two electric vehicles (EVs) developed with its Chinese joint venture partner Changan, but neither has been locked in for an Australian launch just yet. The Japanese automaker revealed the EZ-6 mid-size liftback at the 2024 Shanghai motor show, with the export version – badged 6e – debuting in Brussels earlier this year when it was also confirmed for right-hand drive. The EZ-60 mid-size electric SUV was subsequently revealed at this year's Shanghai motor show. "At this stage, the only one we're building a business case for, because it's available in right-hand drive, is the Mazda 6e, and we're only doing a business case," confirmed Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi to Australian media, stressing it wasn't a foregone conclusion. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "Australia offers the most amount of models, as many as we can – when you look at the global portfolio, we offer the most [of any market globally] – so we don't want to abandon that strategy. "[And] I think if the government is really determined to reduce our carbon footprint from Australia, I can only expect they will go stronger and harder towards battery electric-powered cars. "Mazda will offer it if we can." The 6e is launching in the UK market in 2026. It's also set to be offered in Thailand, another RHD market. "We're looking at EV as a business case at this stage," said Mr Bhindi when asked whether Mazda Australia was looking at just the EV or the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) version also offered in China. "We're building a business case for EV, and if that then allows us to bring the car in and potentially expand, then we can always look at that." The Chinese-market EZ-6's EREV powertrain features a 1.5-litre petrol engine that sends power not to the wheels but rather the 18.9kWh or 28.4kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which in turn powers the 160kW/320Nm electric motor. Claimed electric-only range is between 130km and 200km on the CLTC cycle. The 6e is around 50mm longer and 50mm wider than the Mazda 6 sedan, which along with its wagon counterpart was recently discontinued in Australia. It's being offered in Europe with a single-motor rear-wheel drive electric powertrain producing 190kW of power and 320Nm of torque. The standard 68.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery can be charged at up to 165kW, and offers 479km of range under the WLTP cycle. The larger 80kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery can only support 90kW DC fast-charging, but offers 552km of range. With this battery, the electric motor's power output drops slightly to 180kW. Energy consumption is essentially identical with either battery specified, with figures of 16.6kWh/100km and 16.5kWh/100km, respectively. All 6e models feature a 400V electrical system. In European markets such as Germany, the 6e is offered in either Takumi or Takumi Plus grades. Both come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and heated, ventilated and power-adjustable front seats. The Takumi Plus adds a tan interior, Nappa leather upholstery, and a power sunblind. While the 6e has been confirmed for RHD, the EZ-60 hasn't yet. "At the moment, the vehicle's only available for the China market, but we're really excited with the direction of the design and technology," said Daniel Wakelim, Mazda Australia national manager of product and business strategy. "It would probably sit in the large SUV segment if we were to bring it to Australia." While the EZ-60 electric SUV was revealed at this year's Shanghai show, Mazda has stopped short of releasing full specifications. A Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) filing shared by Car News China, however, has revealed the two-row EZ-60 SUV measures 4850mm long, 1935mm wide and 1620mm tall on a 2902mm wheelbase. That makes it 58mm longer than a Tesla Model Y on a 12mm longer wheelbase. The electric version has an LFP battery and a 190kW rear-mounted electric motor, while the EREV version mates a 72kW 1.5-litre engine with a 190kW electric motor and a 31.73kWh LFP battery for 160km of electric-only range. Mazda Australia has only offered one EV before, with a battery-powered version of the MX-30. The slow-selling model was axed in 2023, and was recently discontinued in the UK and Europe as well. Content originally sourced from: Mazda has now revealed two electric vehicles (EVs) developed with its Chinese joint venture partner Changan, but neither has been locked in for an Australian launch just yet. The Japanese automaker revealed the EZ-6 mid-size liftback at the 2024 Shanghai motor show, with the export version – badged 6e – debuting in Brussels earlier this year when it was also confirmed for right-hand drive. The EZ-60 mid-size electric SUV was subsequently revealed at this year's Shanghai motor show. "At this stage, the only one we're building a business case for, because it's available in right-hand drive, is the Mazda 6e, and we're only doing a business case," confirmed Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi to Australian media, stressing it wasn't a foregone conclusion. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "Australia offers the most amount of models, as many as we can – when you look at the global portfolio, we offer the most [of any market globally] – so we don't want to abandon that strategy. "[And] I think if the government is really determined to reduce our carbon footprint from Australia, I can only expect they will go stronger and harder towards battery electric-powered cars. "Mazda will offer it if we can." The 6e is launching in the UK market in 2026. It's also set to be offered in Thailand, another RHD market. "We're looking at EV as a business case at this stage," said Mr Bhindi when asked whether Mazda Australia was looking at just the EV or the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) version also offered in China. "We're building a business case for EV, and if that then allows us to bring the car in and potentially expand, then we can always look at that." The Chinese-market EZ-6's EREV powertrain features a 1.5-litre petrol engine that sends power not to the wheels but rather the 18.9kWh or 28.4kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which in turn powers the 160kW/320Nm electric motor. Claimed electric-only range is between 130km and 200km on the CLTC cycle. The 6e is around 50mm longer and 50mm wider than the Mazda 6 sedan, which along with its wagon counterpart was recently discontinued in Australia. It's being offered in Europe with a single-motor rear-wheel drive electric powertrain producing 190kW of power and 320Nm of torque. The standard 68.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery can be charged at up to 165kW, and offers 479km of range under the WLTP cycle. The larger 80kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery can only support 90kW DC fast-charging, but offers 552km of range. With this battery, the electric motor's power output drops slightly to 180kW. Energy consumption is essentially identical with either battery specified, with figures of 16.6kWh/100km and 16.5kWh/100km, respectively. All 6e models feature a 400V electrical system. In European markets such as Germany, the 6e is offered in either Takumi or Takumi Plus grades. Both come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and heated, ventilated and power-adjustable front seats. The Takumi Plus adds a tan interior, Nappa leather upholstery, and a power sunblind. While the 6e has been confirmed for RHD, the EZ-60 hasn't yet. "At the moment, the vehicle's only available for the China market, but we're really excited with the direction of the design and technology," said Daniel Wakelim, Mazda Australia national manager of product and business strategy. "It would probably sit in the large SUV segment if we were to bring it to Australia." While the EZ-60 electric SUV was revealed at this year's Shanghai show, Mazda has stopped short of releasing full specifications. A Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) filing shared by Car News China, however, has revealed the two-row EZ-60 SUV measures 4850mm long, 1935mm wide and 1620mm tall on a 2902mm wheelbase. That makes it 58mm longer than a Tesla Model Y on a 12mm longer wheelbase. The electric version has an LFP battery and a 190kW rear-mounted electric motor, while the EREV version mates a 72kW 1.5-litre engine with a 190kW electric motor and a 31.73kWh LFP battery for 160km of electric-only range. Mazda Australia has only offered one EV before, with a battery-powered version of the MX-30. The slow-selling model was axed in 2023, and was recently discontinued in the UK and Europe as well. Content originally sourced from: Mazda has now revealed two electric vehicles (EVs) developed with its Chinese joint venture partner Changan, but neither has been locked in for an Australian launch just yet. The Japanese automaker revealed the EZ-6 mid-size liftback at the 2024 Shanghai motor show, with the export version – badged 6e – debuting in Brussels earlier this year when it was also confirmed for right-hand drive. The EZ-60 mid-size electric SUV was subsequently revealed at this year's Shanghai motor show. "At this stage, the only one we're building a business case for, because it's available in right-hand drive, is the Mazda 6e, and we're only doing a business case," confirmed Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi to Australian media, stressing it wasn't a foregone conclusion. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "Australia offers the most amount of models, as many as we can – when you look at the global portfolio, we offer the most [of any market globally] – so we don't want to abandon that strategy. "[And] I think if the government is really determined to reduce our carbon footprint from Australia, I can only expect they will go stronger and harder towards battery electric-powered cars. "Mazda will offer it if we can." The 6e is launching in the UK market in 2026. It's also set to be offered in Thailand, another RHD market. "We're looking at EV as a business case at this stage," said Mr Bhindi when asked whether Mazda Australia was looking at just the EV or the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) version also offered in China. "We're building a business case for EV, and if that then allows us to bring the car in and potentially expand, then we can always look at that." The Chinese-market EZ-6's EREV powertrain features a 1.5-litre petrol engine that sends power not to the wheels but rather the 18.9kWh or 28.4kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which in turn powers the 160kW/320Nm electric motor. Claimed electric-only range is between 130km and 200km on the CLTC cycle. The 6e is around 50mm longer and 50mm wider than the Mazda 6 sedan, which along with its wagon counterpart was recently discontinued in Australia. It's being offered in Europe with a single-motor rear-wheel drive electric powertrain producing 190kW of power and 320Nm of torque. The standard 68.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery can be charged at up to 165kW, and offers 479km of range under the WLTP cycle. The larger 80kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery can only support 90kW DC fast-charging, but offers 552km of range. With this battery, the electric motor's power output drops slightly to 180kW. Energy consumption is essentially identical with either battery specified, with figures of 16.6kWh/100km and 16.5kWh/100km, respectively. All 6e models feature a 400V electrical system. In European markets such as Germany, the 6e is offered in either Takumi or Takumi Plus grades. Both come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and heated, ventilated and power-adjustable front seats. The Takumi Plus adds a tan interior, Nappa leather upholstery, and a power sunblind. While the 6e has been confirmed for RHD, the EZ-60 hasn't yet. "At the moment, the vehicle's only available for the China market, but we're really excited with the direction of the design and technology," said Daniel Wakelim, Mazda Australia national manager of product and business strategy. "It would probably sit in the large SUV segment if we were to bring it to Australia." While the EZ-60 electric SUV was revealed at this year's Shanghai show, Mazda has stopped short of releasing full specifications. A Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) filing shared by Car News China, however, has revealed the two-row EZ-60 SUV measures 4850mm long, 1935mm wide and 1620mm tall on a 2902mm wheelbase. That makes it 58mm longer than a Tesla Model Y on a 12mm longer wheelbase. The electric version has an LFP battery and a 190kW rear-mounted electric motor, while the EREV version mates a 72kW 1.5-litre engine with a 190kW electric motor and a 31.73kWh LFP battery for 160km of electric-only range. Mazda Australia has only offered one EV before, with a battery-powered version of the MX-30. The slow-selling model was axed in 2023, and was recently discontinued in the UK and Europe as well. Content originally sourced from:
