Mazda CX-60 vs BMW X7
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-60

$36,980 - $77,985

2025 price

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BMW X7

$96,888 - $129,990

2023 price

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Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

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Summary

2025 Mazda CX-60

2023 BMW X7

By Byron Mathioudakis

By Tim Nicholson

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 6, 3.3L

Diesel Turbo 8, 3.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Diesel/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

7.4L/100km (combined)

8.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Quality feel
Spacious and practical interior
Superb powertrain and handling capabilities

Bold design
Spacious, plush interior
Beefy diesel engine

Dislikes

Some suspension noise intrusion
Oddly dated styling inside and out
Still a premium-priced Mazda

Pricey options
Some functions hard to find in screen
A challenge to manoeuvre in tight spaces

2025 Mazda CX-60 Summary

A good car in its own right, the Mazda CX-60 has nevertheless been one of the most disappointing new-model releases of recent times.

After the ongoing critical and commercial success of the CX-5, its somewhat larger premium mid-sized sibling should have been a slam dunk, with BMW-evoking longitudinal drivetrain and terrific in-line six-cylinder engine choices, as well as the surprisingly far-sighted option of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) from the get-go.

Yet, when launched internationally during 2022, the quality, packaging and performance were overshadowed by high prices, a jarring ride, odd handling and erratic transmission calibration, particularly in the aforementioned PHEV.

Now there’s been a wholesale re-think surrounding all of the CX-60’s objectionable systems, as well as a new, lower priced grade, among other updates.

Is it the SUV Mazda should have launched in the first place? Let’s find out.

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Interested in a Mazda CX-60?

2023 BMW X7 Summary

Large family-friendly luxury SUVs tend to be handsome in design but somewhat restrained. Until now. BMW has introduced a major facelift for its flagship SUV, the six- or seven-seat X7. Emphasis on face.

The new X7 adopts the striking but controversial front-end from the new 7 Series sedan, but the big, bold SUV is hiding some rather significant changes under the skin. Aside from a beefier diesel that now comes with mild hybrid tech, there’s also a redesigned cabin, massively upgraded tech, more standard features, oh, and a price increase.

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Deep dive comparison

2025 Mazda CX-60 2023 BMW X7

Verdict

Have no doubts. The MY25 version of the CX-60 is the SUV that Mazda should have launched in Australia in 2023.

It fulfils the promise of its sophisticated specification, builds on the extensive dynamic abilities of previous models, and now provides a compelling – and unique – choice for medium-SUV buyers who do not need an extended seven-seater.

It may still looks a bit daggy from some angles outside, and we’d like a little bit less suspension noise on the inside, but the CX-60 should now be on Australian family-car shortlists.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.

Verdict

When lined up against its direct rivals, the expensive X7 xDrive40d represents reasonable value for money.

It has a unique and bold look and a sumptuous, visually striking and well-appointed interior that has acres of space for family, friends, or for ferrying frequent flyers to the airport.

That wallop of performance from the big beefy diesel is the cherry on the top. This is how you do a mid-life update.

Mazda CX-60 vs BMW X7 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-60 vs BMW X7
What's the difference?