Manufacturer, Mazda, SUV/4X4

Mazda CX-60 D

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Impressive diesel bucks the trend

It may have seemed counter-intuitive for a major manufacturer to put a new diesel engine in its flagship model, but Mazda bucked the trend with some success. Also with the ban on combustion engine vehicles ring moved to 2035, it offers a great alternative in the highly competitive SUV market.

The striking-looking SUV is a challenger to premium German and Swedish brands, with an elegant, dynamic design that gives it a real road presence.

Available in three model grades: Exclusive-Line, Homura, and Takumi, all of which offer high levels of equipment and cutting-edge technology, it is firmly at the premium end of the market.

Featuring Mazda’s  Kodo: Soul of Motion design philosophy, it offers a striking profile, and high-end driver-centric cabin and an excellent driving experience,

Powered by Mazda’s new 3.3-litre e-Skyactiv diesel engine and supplemented by a 48v mild-hybrid electric motor, the Japanese firm is confident this engine is one of the cleanest and most efficient in the world.  Powered by Mazda’s new 3.3-litre e-Skyactiv diesel engine and supplemented by a 48v mild-hybrid electric motor, the Japanese firm is confident this engine is one of the cleanest and most efficient in the world. 

The firm calls it the right solution at the right time. It features the fancy-named ‘Distribution-Controlled Partially Premixed Compression Ignition (DCPCI) Technology, which helps it achieve a thermal efficiency (the relationship between the total energy contained in the fuel, and the amount of energy used to perform useful work) of over 40 per cent.’ Phew, well it’s hi-tech anyway.

It is ideal for high-mileage drivers and those who need to tow regularly, thanks to its high torque delivery and 2,500kg trailer weight towing capacity.

Premium quality it is and you pay for that, but it comes with a range of features, including high-end safety equipment, connectivity through Mazda Connect for phone apps, and innovative navigation and infotainment through the high-end Bose system.

The interior theme is “Crafted in Japan,” and all models feature leather upholstery, 12.3-inch colour central display screen, with a rotary dial which controls features like navigation, infotainment and connectivity, they also feature a head-up display, while the driver’s instrument binnacle display is a full-colour TFT-LCD display.

The list goes on with auto-dimming rear-view mirror, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, four USB-C inputs, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus connected services via the My Mazda App.

On the road, the diesel engine is both refined and frugal and is available in two power levels: a 254PS all-wheel drive model with 550Nm of torque, assisted by a 48v mild-hybrid electric motor, and a less powerful 200PS unit available with rear-wheel drive only. 

This model featured the AWD 254PS which delivers a claimed average of 53.3mpg with CO2 emissions from 137g/km. The drive comes via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which can be switched to steering wheel paddles and engaging Sport mode which sharpens up engine and suspension responses for a more rewarding drive.

It is very quick off the mark, hitting 60mph in just over seconds and like all diesels, offers that mid-range torque for effortless motorway overtaking.

Highly practical, there is plenty of space for five occupants together with a large 520-litre boot that opens up into a cavernous space with the rear seats folded. It is also packed with safety features, including airbags, a 360-degree monitor with extended field of view at low speeds, Hill Descent Control (HDC), Adaptive Cruise Control (i-ACC), and Traffic Sign Recognition.

Stylish and well-equipped, this SUV is an excellent choice for those who need a practical, premium, and reliable vehicle. 

Also for those looking to do high mileage while still enjoying the best of creature comforts within the cabin. Prices start at £42,990, rising to £50,730 on the road.

Factfile

Mazda CX-60 3.3D 254ps AWD Homura

Price: £50,395

Mechanical: 3,283cc 200PS six cylinder diesel mild hybrid driving all wheels rear wheels via eight speed automatic transmission

Max speed: 136mph

0-62mph: 7.4 seconds

Range: 50.3mpg

CO2 emissions: 139g/km

Insurance group: 38

BIK rating: 32%

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

Motoring

Swift success story continues

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Suzuki Swift Sport hybrid

By Bill McCarthy

Suzuki had a remarkably successful year in the UK last year, despite the challenging market conditions. The company sold 27,928 units, which is a 57% increase compared to 2022 and the highest annual volume since 2019. Although Suzuki may not be as prominent as other brands, their vehicles’ quality, reliability, and pricing have created a loyal customer base.

The success of Suzuki’s compact Swift is a testament to its quality, pricing, reliability and customer loyalty. The model has been around since 2004 and has sold over nine million units and the new model, to be released in the spring, will be powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine, which provides increased fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.

This Swift Sport hybrid model is equally impressive, with feisty performance and great driver engagement.

It features a low centre of gravity, blacked-out pillars, roof spoiler, smart front grille and bumper, front fog lamps, LED running lights, and 17-inch polished alloy wheels.

The interior is designed to reflect the car’s sporty aesthetic, with red accent panels throughout the cockpit and a rev counter with a red dial face. The LCD display shows information about the car’s performance, including turbo boost, engine oil temperature, engine output and torque data, fuel consumption, average speed, acceleration and brake operation, and driving G-force tracking. The sports seats are supportive and comfortable, and the alloy pedals and steering wheel with a dimpled leather design and red stitching complete the look.

The seven-inch touchscreen controls the infotainment, sat nav, and smartphone connectivity with MirrorLink, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. It also includes the rearview camera for reversing.

The 1.4 Boosterjet with 48V Hybrid Powertrain for Swift Sport helps to reduce fuel costs and lower CO2 emissions. The hybrid system’s main components weigh just 15kg, including a 48V lithium-ion battery, Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), and 48V-12V (DC/DC) converter to power components requiring lower voltage.

The ISG acts as a generator and starter motor, is belt-driven, and provides a boost to the petrol engine. The turbocharged unit is gutsy and mated to a six-speed manual box, propelling the car to 60mph in just over eight seconds, delivered with a throaty rasp from the tuned exhaust system. It is also economical, with a claimed 50.4 mpg.

The Swift Sport’s sport suspension keeps the car feeling agile with optimized roll rigidity and improved dynamic response. Safety features include six airbags as standard, stability program, advanced forward detection system, Lane Departure Correction adaptive cruise control, and assisted braking. The front ventilated brake discs offer greater stopping power.

Buyers also benefit from the Service Activated Warranty, which is offered free of charge once the car reaches the end of its manufacturer warranty period and is booked in for its next scheduled service within the Suzuki Dealer network. This warranty stays in place until the next qualifying service and is then renewed again up to a maximum vehicle age of 7 years/100,000 miles – whichever comes first.

In conclusion, the Swift Sport is a compact and sporty five-door hatch flyer that provides excellent value for money and is incredibly fun to drive.

Suzuki Swift Sport Boosterjet Hybrid

  • Price: £24,270
  • Mechanical: 129bhp, 1342cc, four cylinder petrol engine driving front wheels via 6-speed  gearbox
  • Max speed: 130mph
  • 0-62mph: 8.5 seconds
  • Combined mpg: 50.4
  • Insurance group: 28D
  • CO2 emissions: 125g/km
  • BiK rating: 30%
  • Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

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