MG ZST vs Mazda CX-60
What's the difference?

MG ZST

$14,000 - $24,990

2024 price

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Mazda CX-60

$36,980 - $77,985

2025 price

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Summary

2024 MG ZST

2025 Mazda CX-60

By Emily Agar

By Byron Mathioudakis

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 3, 1.3L

Turbo 6, 3.3L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

7.3L/100km (combined)

7.4L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Happy little price tag
Good features list
Nice kerb-side presence

Quality feel
Spacious and practical interior
Superb powertrain and handling capabilities

Dislikes

Tech needs improving
Upholstery/trims feel plasticky
Rivals have brand new five-star ANCAP ratings

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

2024 MG ZST Summary

The ZST is essentially an upgraded version of MG's popular small SUV, the ZS.

The ZST sees some tweaks to the overall design and some added standard safety features. So, if you like the original, there's a good chance you'll like the ZST and I've been driving the top-grade Essence variant with my family of three.

The ZST Essence has some stiff competition from similarly specified rivals like the GWM Haval Jolion Lux and Chery Omoda 5 EX offering affordable packages and similar driving experiences. So, what makes the ZST stand out?

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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?

Deep dive comparison

2024 MG ZST 2025 Mazda CX-60

Verdict

Will the MG ZST Essence fit a small family? Absolutely, and all but the middle seat passenger will be comfortable but there are areas open for improvement. Like it's safety, laggy tech and adding a few extra items in the back seat.

Yet, it still offers a good host of features and an attractive package for a reasonable price tag. Unfortunately, my son missed having the basic amenities but did like the sun roof.

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.

MG ZST vs Mazda CX-60 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

MG ZST vs Mazda CX-60
What's the difference?