The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is a stylish two-row, five-passenger SUV that fills the gap between the smaller CX-50 and the larger three-row CX-90 in Mazda’s lineup. While the CX-70 shares its platform and much of its design with the CX-90, it offers a more efficient cargo space by forgoing the third-row seating found in the CX-90. With its sleek design and choice of powertrains, the CX-70 adds versatility and practicality to Mazda’s growing SUV range.
The CX-70 is nearly identical to the CX-90 in terms of mechanicals and dimensions. It offers three powertrain options, including two 3.3-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engines with mild hybrid systems for enhanced efficiency and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant that can travel up to 25 miles on electric power alone. A subtle difference in styling between the two models is found in the wheel arch flares—black on hybrid models and body-colored on the PHEV. Mazda’s engineers have made the CX-70 almost indistinguishable from the CX-90 in terms of ride and handling, with only a slight weight difference of around 100 pounds.
The key distinction is that the CX-70 is designed for five passengers, eliminating the third-row seat and expanding the cargo area. Mazda has maximized cargo space by widening the rear section and adding a new sub-trunk storage area. Additionally, the rear seats feature power-folding capability, enhancing the vehicle’s convenience.
Competing in a broad two-row SUV segment, the CX-70 is priced competitively against luxury models like the BMW X5, Acura MDX, and Genesis GV80 while offering sporty handling that stands out. It also competes with more affordable models like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee, with Mazda’s characteristic driving dynamics giving it an edge over these rivals.
### Positives:
– High-quality interior craftsmanship.
– Choice of gas or PHEV powertrains.
– Thoughtful cargo storage solutions.
### Considerations:
– No fully electric version available.
– Limited off-road capability.
– Essentially a two-row version of the CX-90.
### Trims and Pricing:
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offers two powertrain options: a 3.3-liter turbocharged engine in standard and S configurations, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). It comes in several trims: Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus for the standard turbo, while the S and PHEV models are available in Premium and Premium Plus trims. The S Premium trim is the most popular choice and the one we recommend.
**Preferred**
Priced at $41,900 (including a $1,455 destination fee), the Preferred trim features a 280-hp turbocharged engine, 19-inch gray alloy wheels, black trim, LED lighting, a power sunroof, black leather seats, and a 12.3-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
**Premium**
The Premium, priced at $47,355, adds features like a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, a 12.3-inch driver’s display, a head-up display, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, navigation, and upgraded safety features like emergency lane-keeping and front and rear parking sensors.
**Premium Plus**
The Premium Plus, starting at $50,355, includes a surround-view camera system, Nappa leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and front cross-traffic alert.
**S Premium**
The S Premium, priced at $53,905, offers a more powerful 340-hp turbo engine, 21-inch wheels, adaptive front lighting, and heated power-folding mirrors.
**Plug-In Hybrid Premium**
Starting at $55,855, the PHEV model includes the 322-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain with 25 miles of electric-only range, 21-inch wheels, three-zone climate control, and additional driving modes.
### Engine and Performance:
The 2025 CX-70’s base powertrain is a 3.3-liter inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, available in two power outputs: 280 hp and 340 hp for the S model. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-70 excels on twisty roads, offering responsive steering and precise handling that make it one of the most engaging SUVs in its class. Ride comfort is also a strength, providing a smooth experience over uneven surfaces.
The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 100-kW electric motor, delivering a combined 325 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The PHEV provides a smooth and powerful driving experience, with the electric motor adding extra torque for swift acceleration.
### Fuel Economy and Range:
The CX-70’s standard turbo engine delivers an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The more powerful S trim is similarly efficient at 23/28 mpg. The plug-in hybrid version offers 56 MPGe and up to 25 miles of electric-only driving range, making it a good choice for those looking to reduce fuel consumption on short trips.
### Interior:
The CX-70’s interior is both luxurious and practical, featuring high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The cabin is nearly identical to the CX-90, with soft-touch surfaces, padded center consoles, and optional Nappa leather seats. Rear passengers benefit from reclining seats, and the CX-70 offers more cargo space than its three-row sibling, with up to 58.6 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down.
### Infotainment and Connectivity:
A standard 12.3-inch infotainment display controls most functions, though it is not a touchscreen, relying instead on a control knob and buttons. While this setup is less intuitive than touchscreens found in rival models, the CX-70 does include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Amazon Alexa integration for hands-free control.
### Safety:
Though not yet rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, the CX-70 includes a robust suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.
### Mazda CX-70 vs. the Competition:
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offers a balance of performance, style, and practicality, competing with luxury SUVs like tahe BMW X5 and Acura MDX at a more affordable price. While not as luxurious as the Genesis GV80, the CX-70 delivers an engaging driving experience and practical cargo space, making it a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment.
