Mazda surprised the world last year by introducing the Mazda Spirit Racing (MSR) sub-brand as a revival of the Mazdaspeed legacy. It came with two models in tow: the RS Concept and the 3 Racing Concept, which are essentially souped up versions of the MX-5 Miata and Mazda3 Hatchback, respectively. The Japanese automaker has revealed the third member of the hot Mazda lineup at this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon, and it’s based on an SUV: the Mazda CX-60.
2025 Mazda CX-70
- Base MSRP
- $40,445
- Engine
- 3.3L Turbo Inline-6 Gas
- Horsepower
- 280-340 hp
- Torque
- 332-369 lb-ft
- Transmission
- 8-Speed Automatic
- 0-60 MPH
- 6 seconds
- Top Speed
- 127-130 mph
The MSR CX-60 is based on the production CX-60 – a compact crossover offered in markets outside the US and the first Mazda to use its Large Product Platform, shared with the CX-70 and CX-90 that are available in America. It slots in between the CX-70 and CX-50 in terms of size, though the CX-60 is closer to the former when talking about its power plant and its place within the Japanese automaker’s range.
Designed For Rally Racing
Showed alongside the ultra-limited, more-powerful Miata at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, the MSR CX-60 builds upon the standard model’s claimed excellent driving characteristics and agile nature. To differ from the normal CX-60, it comes with a huge rear spoiler and roof ventilator, plus several MSR badges and decals to complete the branding.
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The MSR CX-60’s main cabin theme is Alcantara, found in various places such as the dashboard, center console, and steering wheel. To keep occupants safe, it’s also equipped with a roll cage, plus full bucket seats to keep the buttocks in place during hardcore action. Speaking of which, the MSR CX-60 is also equipped with an under guard for excursions on dirt tracks, while the brakes have been upgraded to 6-piston opposed calipers.
Inline-Six Diesel For “Speed” And “Texture”
Mazda didn’t touch the power plant of the CX-60, with the show car still powered by the e-Skyactiv-D, its brilliant turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six diesel engine, producing up to 251 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. There wasn’t any mention of upgrades to the front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension setup of the CX-60, though the black wheels measure 20 inches and are wrapped in Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) tires.
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Is America Missing Out On The Mazda CX-60? We’ve Driven It To Find Out
We’ve spent some time behind the wheel of the Mazda CX-60 PHEV to find out if America is missing out by not getting it.
Mazda didn’t disclose if the third MSR concept would ever hit production or if there’s any chance for it to join races in the future. What we’re sure of is that this model will remain forbidden fruit for Mazda fans in the US. An MSR version of the CX-70, perhaps? We’ll have to wait and see, but with Mazda clearly looking to revive its sporty side, we expect plenty of similar creations to come to life before long.
