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Mazda's refreshed CX-60 and CX-80 land in Europe with a surprise under the hood
Mazda is rolling out mid-cycle updates for the 2026 CX-60 and CX-80, and the changes are about more than a new paint hue. Arriving at dealerships in Europe and selected Asia-Pacific markets in spring 2026, both SUVs get a raft of refinements in performance, safety and interior quality — plus a notable powertrain development that underscores Mazda's gradual move toward more sustainable fuel options.
What’s new at a glance
- Euro6e-bis emissions compliance across the range
- Diesel variants approved to run on HVO100 renewable diesel
- Driver Emergency Assist (DEA) with Driver Monitoring
- Interior upgrades on Homura and Homura Plus trims: quilted Nappa leather, two-tone steering wheel, suede-look dashboard
- Noise-insulating glass for lower NVH in the cabin
- New 20-inch wheel finishes and a fresh Polymetal Grey exterior color
- Added tech: Amazon Alexa and hybrid navigation with seven years of free map updates
HVO100 approval — a practical step toward cleaner diesel
One of the most interesting headlines is that Mazda has certified the diesel versions of the CX-60 and CX-80 for HVO100. Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil is a renewable diesel produced from 100% waste vegetable oils and animal fats, processed via hydrotreating to create a fuel that is chemically similar to conventional diesel. In real-world terms, HVO100 can cut lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions substantially compared with fossil diesel, while being compatible with current engine hardware when the manufacturer approves it.
This isn't a call to raid your kitchen — HVO100 is a professionally processed fuel, not straight-used cooking oil — but it does give fleet buyers and eco-conscious drivers a meaningful low-carbon option without requiring a wholesale switch to electrification.
Safety and driver aids
Mazda is beefing up active safety with Driver Emergency Assist (DEA), which works with an in-cabin Driver Monitoring system. The combination is designed to detect sudden medical emergencies, take control where necessary, slow the vehicle and bring it to a safe stop. That feature will appeal to families and operators who prioritize occupant protection, especially in longer-range two- and three-row SUVs.
The CX-60 also inherits the full safety and driver assistance suite from its larger sibling, the CX-80, closing any technology gaps between the two models.
Interior, comfort and refinement
On Homura and Homura Plus trims, Mazda introduces a new tan interior with quilted Nappa leather seats, a two-tone leather steering wheel and a suede-look dashboard — all touches that nudge the CX pair toward near-premium territory. Noise-insulating glass on the front doors helps reduce NVH (noise, vibration and harshness), improving long-distance comfort.
Design tweaks include new 20-inch alloy wheel finishes — Metallic Silver for the CX-60 Exclusive and Bright Silver for the CX-80 Exclusive — and the replacement of the Sonic Silver exterior with a more sophisticated Polymetal Grey metallic paint.
Connectivity and navigation
Mazda also boosts convenience with Amazon Alexa in-car voice recognition and, on the CX-60, a hybrid navigation system that combines onboard routing with connected updates. Highlights of the navigation upgrade: alternative route calculations, point-of-interest searching and seven years of free map updates — a practical plus for customers who keep their cars for many years.
Where these models sit in Mazda’s lineup
The CX-60 and CX-80 are part of Mazda’s expanded SUV family that includes CX-3, CX-30, the all-new CX-5, the US-focused CX-50 and the larger CX-70 and CX-90. The CX-60 is a two-row mid-size CUV tailored to Europe and Asia-Pacific, while the CX-80 offers three-row seating for buyers needing extra passenger capacity. Mazda’s strategy has been clear: prioritize crossovers while still offering a select lineup of passenger cars.
Mazda’s 2026 CX-60 and CX-80 updates are less about headline horsepower and more about refinement, real-world sustainability and safety that matters to families and fleet users.
These updates keep Mazda competitive against rivals in the premium-leaning SUV segment and give buyers more choice in fuel type and tech. Expect full dealer availability in spring 2026; pricing and exact equipment packages will vary by market.
Source: autoevolution
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