2025 Mazda CX-70
The Mazda CX-90 was the next step in the brand’s upwardly mobile trajectory. The three-row SUV elevated not only design, but added a set of new powertrain options.
Now, you can get the same engineering and design in a two-row model. It is called the CX-70.
It is still considered a mid-sized two-row SUV. However, this is not considered the replacement for the long-running CX-5. Still, we were curious whether this is the right Mazda to offer now.
The two-row CX-70 shares the same platform as the three-row CX-90. It is also exactly the same size in every dimension. Therefore, it is practically the same vehicle except for the number seats of available.
Mazda’s KODO -Soul of Motion design language is apparent up front, with a flatter front end than its stablemates. In the CX-70, it exudes a sporty texture in the grille and headlamp units. The profile is formal with a longer roofline and gentler slope of the rear glass area. There is a ;ot of glass overall, especially on the C-pillar. The rear end has larger taillamp units that stretch further horizontally towards the center of the tailgate.
Our tester is the Premium Plus trim package, which appears to have more black trim in the appropriate areas and set of 21-inch alloy wheels.
The CX-70 has a certain upmarket look and feel with its red and black color scheme. There are plenty of soft touchpoints that make this CX-70 feel special. You have a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster that is customizable in a few places. That also includes the Active Driving Display shown on the windshield.
The transmission now uses a shift-by-wire method through its stubby actuator on the center console. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen now includes wireless smartphone mirroring. All of the switches and controls were also elevated to improve the overall user experience.
The front seats are supportive, but on the firm side. Most bodies will get comfortable up front. The second row seats offer plenty of head and leg room on a comfortable contoured bench seat.
Cargo space is generous behind the second row of seats, with 39.6 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded down, you have a maximum space of 75.3 cubic feet.
Our tester is powered by a plug-in hybrid driveline, starting with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Combined, it yields up to 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission is connected both the electric and gasoline motors, as it sends power to all four wheels.
Power delivery is smooth no matter the source. It accelerated just fine, and cruising was decent overall. As for fuel economy, we averaged 23.9 MPG. We also got 26 miles out of a full battery - matching the estimated expected range in electric mode only.
The CX-70, offered a smooth ride and excellent road behavior. Handling is very controlled with solid maneuverability.
The steering system is very good with a solid feeling on-center and in tighter turns. It might surprise how well it does in tight maneuvers. Brake pedal feel is solid with good response. The CX-70 turned in solid stops in normal and panic situations.
Pricing for the 2025 Mazda CX-70 starts at $40,445. There are three choices of engines, including the plug-in hybrid we reviewed here and two in-line six-cylinder engines. PHEV models start from $54,400. The CX-70 is available in five trim levels, plus two PHEV models. Our PHEV Premium Plus tester came with a sticker price of $59,500.
The CX-70 competes in the two-row mid-size SUV segment that is now seen as an alternative to three-row models in its size class. Its competitors include the Nissan Murano, Honda Passport, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Chevrolet Blazer. You can also add more premium competitors, such as the Lincoln Nautilus, Cadillac XT5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q8, Defender 110, and BMW X6.
By including the more premium choices among all competitors point to one thing: Mazda is serious about positioning the CX-90 in a more premium vehicle space. If you are upwardly mobile and want to reward yourself with something for you and your family – this is your SUV!
Credits: CarSoup Editors
