The 60mm has quite a range of focus, capable of getting down to a 1:2 ratio. If the image is a complete blur, the lens may have to sweep through most of its range to find focus, but when it does, it locks on. When using it for closeup, I generally go with manual. Frame the subject, press the AFL button, it focuses. Then move the camera to keep focus on the part of the subject that is most important. The last firmware update made using manual focus much easier and more precise.
Last time I checked, it was the lens I use most. 18mm - 26%; 35mm - 34% and 60mm - 40%. As well as closeup, I use it a lot for general photography.