The 2025 Mazda CX-70 emerges as a compelling two-row crossover SUV, strategically positioned to capture drivers who admire the Mazda CX-90 but don’t require a third row. Building upon the successful platform of its three-row sibling, the CX-70 aims to deliver a refined and engaging driving experience with a focus on premium features and a spacious interior. This Cx70 Review delves into whether Mazda has successfully carved out a niche in the competitive two-row SUV segment.
Mazda invited us to Desert Hot Springs, California, to test drive the new CX-70, offering a comprehensive experience to evaluate its performance and features. While the curious canine who paused to inspect the CX-70 during our test drive might not be the target demographic, its attention does highlight the vehicle’s intriguing presence. For those considering the Mazda cx70, let’s explore what truly matters in this detailed review.
The CX-70 mirrors the CX-90 in its powertrain offerings, presenting three distinct options, all paired with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base engine is a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid, producing 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up, a higher-output version of this turbo inline-six boosts performance to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking efficiency, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant combines an electric motor with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, delivering a combined 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
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During our drive, we experienced both the more potent turbo and the PHEV powertrains. The turbocharged engine exhibited a slight initial throttle lag, but once engaged, it provided ample power for most driving scenarios. However, at higher RPMs, the engine note became somewhat coarse. In gentler driving conditions, it was notably smoother and quieter.
Conversely, the PHEV powertrain impressed with its smoothness across a broader rev range. While it did produce some noise at full throttle during highway passing maneuvers, its in-town performance was remarkably refined. Hybrid system transitions were generally seamless. Like the turbo, the PHEV felt responsive, with power readily available even with light throttle input – a characteristic that felt surprisingly more accessible than the turbo, despite the latter’s lower torque peak. This suggests sophisticated computer management optimizing the PHEV’s power delivery. The PHEV also offers a claimed electric-only range of up to 26 miles.
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The cx70 review must address the ride and handling, where Mazda aims to inject its sporty DNA into a larger crossover. While physics dictates the inherent limitations of large SUVs in terms of outright sportiness compared to a Miata, the CX-70 strikes a commendable balance. Both models we tested felt agile, possibly even more so than the CX-90, although the weight difference is minimal – a perception that might be subjective.
The steering in the CX-70 is well-weighted, offering lightness at lower speeds for easy maneuvering and firming up at highway speeds for enhanced stability. Our test routes varied between the turbo and PHEV models, with the PHEV tackling the winding Palms-to-Pines highway and the turbo primarily navigating urban and suburban roads, with a brief stint on moderately curvy roads. While we didn’t push the CX-70 to its absolute limits befitting its crossover nature, instances of slightly aggressive cornering revealed predictable and well-controlled body roll, along with manageable understeer in both variants.
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Ride comfort in the Mazda cx70 is generally smooth and agreeable. The suspension effectively absorbed minor road imperfections, and even larger bumps and potholes did not translate into harshness within the cabin. The turbo model exhibited exceptional composure on undulating rural roads, remaining planted and avoiding any unwanted float or wallow. The suspension setup features a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear arrangement, contributing to its composed ride and handling.
However, certain road surfaces did induce noticeable tire noise, although wind noise remained impressively subdued. As previously mentioned, both engines remained hushed until pushed harder under heavier acceleration.
Mazda has bestowed the CX-70 with an aesthetically pleasing design, both inside and out, mirroring the CX-90’s attractive styling. Exterior distinctions include a unique grille and a more slab-sided profile. While perhaps not overtly distinctive, the CX-70’s design is nonetheless appealing. Turbo models feature body-colored cladding, while PHEV versions opt for black cladding.
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Inside, the cabin materials are of high quality, and the controls are generally user-friendly, with the exception of a somewhat unconventional shifter design – a trend some automakers should reconsider. The physical HVAC controls and clear gauges are commendable, however, Mazda’s infotainment system still requires excessive menu navigation for basic functions like radio tuning. The screen integration also feels somewhat tacked-on rather than seamlessly integrated into the dashboard design.
The front seats in the cx70 proved to be comfortable for extended periods, and the second row offers ample space for adults. A notable feature is the available under-floor storage in the cargo area, enhancing practicality. Mazda also highlighted the CX-70’s new trailer hitch assist system, demonstrated to be user-friendly, though similar systems, some more advanced, are already available from other manufacturers.
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Standard and available features are generous, including options like 21-inch wheels, black interior accents, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, keyless entry and start, USB A and C ports, automatic climate control (up to three zones), heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel, Bose audio, satellite radio, navigation, Bluetooth, panoramic sunroof, LED lighting, Alexa integration, head-up display, hands-free power liftgate, leather seats, roof rails, and cargo-area charging. The Alexa integration, while functional, can be a little too sensitive, as demonstrated by an accidental activation during a casual conversation near the vehicle.
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Advanced driver-assistance systems are also comprehensive, encompassing smart brake support, blind-spot monitoring, radar cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-keep assist with lane-departure warning, driver-attention warning, rear-view monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, emergency lane keeping, head-on traffic avoidance assist, driver-exit warning, and traffic-sign recognition.
Pricing for the 2025 Mazda cx70 starts at $40,445 for the base model, $52,450 for the Turbo S, and $54,400 for the PHEV. Trim levels are further divided into Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus for the base model, and Premium and Premium Plus for both the Turbo S and PHEV. Interestingly, the CX-70 is positioned slightly higher in price than the CX-90. The top-trim PHEV Premium Plus we tested came to $59,275 including paint and destination charges.
Fuel economy figures are rated at 24 mpg city/28 mpg highway/25 mpg combined for the base engine and 23/28/25 mpg for the stronger turbo. The PHEV achieves 56 MPGe, with 25 mpg combined on gasoline only.
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In conclusion, the Mazda CX-70 presents a compelling package for buyers seeking a refined and well-equipped two-row crossover. It effectively caters to those who appreciate the CX-90’s qualities but don’t require a third row, even if it comes at a slightly higher price point. Mazda envisions the CX-70 appealing to affluent empty nesters, but its broader appeal extends to couples, smaller families, and singles who prioritize cargo space and a premium driving experience.
While Mazda might face challenges in drawing customers away from established luxury brands like Lexus, BMW, and Jeep, the CX-70 offers a strong alternative. Addressing minor refinements like engine noise and turbo throttle response could further solidify its position as a compelling contender in the two-row crossover segment. For anyone considering a premium two-row SUV, the Mazda CX-70 review suggests it deserves serious consideration and a place on your shopping list.
