The 2026 Mazda CX-60 range is set to expand with the addition of a new entry-level model, expected to be priced from less than $50,000.

Mazda recently updated the CX-60 with revised suspension and transmission tuning, with Mazda Australia boss Vinesh Bhindi taking the opportunity to announce a new variant – powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder ‘Skyactiv-G’ engine.

The new entry-level CX-60 is set to be launched in the second half of 2025.

“This addition will not only further expand our CX-60 offering, but importantly, [will] continue to offer good value in the segment while meeting our consumers' motoring needs,” Mr Bhindi said.

The current CX-60 range starts at $50,240 before on-road costs, with buyers getting a 3.3-litre turbo-petrol six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine as standard.

Along with the petrol inline six, other variants can be ordered with a choice of mild-hybrid 3.3-litre turbo-diesel six-cylinder or a 2.5-litre non-turbo four-cylinder engine with plug-in hybrid technology.

While Mazda only offers the CX-60 with all-wheel drive, the forthcoming base model is available overseas with either rear- or all-wheel drive.

However, offering a rear-wheel-drive version could help keep the price tag low – potentially winning back customers who have been tempted by the recent influx of cheaper SUVs.

Mazda Australia has already begun fighting newcomer value brands, dropping prices across its CX-60 range in recent weeks – including the introduction of a new Pure variant, which is more than $10,000 cheaper than the previous entry-level model.

The rest of the line-up has received discounts of between $5560 and $7560.

The Japanese carmaker has yet to outline pricing or specifications for the upcoming entry-level CX-60, but in other markets, the 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine produces 138kW and 250Nm – coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission.