Car manufacturers are achieving remarkable power outputs from their engines nowadays. While Mercedes is able to extract 469 horses from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and Toyota manages to squeeze 300 horsepower from its petite 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine, Mazda seems to have taken a different route. The new inline-six engine in Mazda’s latest CX-60 crossover only churns out 280 horsepower from a 3.3-liter engine, albeit with the help of a turbocharger.
It’s conceivable that Mazda’s engine might have a more conservative tune or is significantly impacted by emission regulations. It’s worth noting that the CX-60 won’t be making its way to North America. It seems probable that this engine variant will be exclusive to markets outside the US. This decision makes sense since Mazda currently offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 256 hp in the US, whereas it delivers only 228 hp in Australia, where the CX-60 will be introduced.
According to a report by the Australian publication CarExpert, a Mazda spokesperson hinted that the engine’s specifications for the CX-70 and CX-90 in North America will be disclosed later. This suggests a potential increase in power for those markets. Considering Mazda already offers a 256-hp engine in the US, why develop an entirely new powerplant if it only provides slightly more power?
Mazda’s latest RWD platform features its all-new inline-six engine. Mazda
This engine has been highly anticipated and follows the trend set by other automakers in developing new inline-six engines. Mercedes and JLR initiated the resurgence of straight-six powertrains, later joined by Stellantis for non-heavy-duty trucks. The latter’s new “Hurricane” engine achieves over 500 hp in its high-output configuration from a 3.0-liter capacity.
If we engage in some informed speculation—why shouldn’t we?—we could infer that if Mazda’s 2.5-liter engine loses approximately 12% power in Australia, the US version of their 3.3-liter inline-six may generate around 315 hp. Ideally, we hope for a higher output, but it gives us a starting point at least.
However, until official details are disclosed, it’s worth noting that the 3.3-liter six from Mazda in Australia falls a bit short. Sometimes the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
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