Mazda has been on a roll lately, introducing new models and powertrains to elevate the brand’s image and appeal. The latest addition to the lineup is the 2025 Mazda CX-70, a two-row midsize SUV with the same platform and engines as the three-row CX-90. But the CX-70 is not just a CX-90 with fewer seats. It has its own identity and style and some features and options that set it apart from its sibling. I will look closer at the CX-70 and see how it compares to its rivals in the segment.
What’s New for 2025?
The CX-70 is a new nameplate for Mazda, although the vehicle is essentially a variant of the CX-90 that debuted last year. The CX-70 has a blacked-out exterior trim to differentiate it from the CX-90 and a new wheel design. Mazda also added some new features for the CX-70, such as Amazon Alexa integration, an underfloor storage compartment in the cargo area, and a head-on traffic avoidance assist system.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 starts at $41,820 and goes up to $57,325, depending on the trim and options. There are five trims to choose from: Preferred, Premium, Premium Plus, S Premium, and S Premium Plus. The main difference between the S and non-S trims is the engine: the S trims get a more powerful version of the turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, which makes 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, compared to the 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque of the base engine. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive.
A plug-in hybrid option also uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor to produce a combined 323 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The plug-in hybrid can travel up to 26 miles on electric power alone and has an estimated fuel economy of 33 mpg combined.
If we had to pick one trim, we would go for the S Premium, which adds 21-inch wheels, a hands-free power liftgate, a panoramic sunroof, a digital gauge display, a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, and a head-up display to the already well-equipped Preferred trim. The S Premium also has a more potent inline-six engine, which we think is worth the upgrade for its smooth and refined performance.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The CX-70’s engines are the highlight of the vehicle, as they are part of Mazda’s new Skyactiv-X family of powertrains that use a unique compression-ignition technology to boost efficiency and reduce emissions. The turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine is especially impressive, as it delivers a strong and linear power delivery that matches the CX-70’s premium aspirations. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive but sometimes hesitates to downshift when more acceleration is needed. The plug-in hybrid option is also good for those who want to save fuel and reduce their carbon footprint, as it offers decent performance and a respectable electric range.
The CX-70’s handling is also commendable, as it offers a balanced and composed ride that absorbs bumps and road imperfections well. The steering is precise and direct, and the brakes are firm and confident. The CX-70 also features Mazda’s Intelligent Drive Select system, which allows the driver to choose between different drive modes, such as Sport, Normal, and Off-Road. The CX-70 also has a Towing Mode, which helps optimize the vehicle’s stability and performance when towing a trailer. The CX-70 has a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, which is competitive for the segment.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The CX-70’s fuel economy ratings are not yet available from the EPA, but we expect them to be similar to the CX-90’s, which are 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined for the base engine, and 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined for the S engine. The plug-in hybrid option should offer better fuel efficiency, as it has an estimated 33 mpg combined rating and a 26-mile electric range.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The CX-70’s interior reflects Mazda’s attention to detail and craftsmanship. It features high-quality materials, elegant design, and user-friendly technology. The cabin is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both rows of seats. The seats are supportive and adjustable, and the driver’s seat has a memory function. The CX-70 also offers several options to enhance the interior, such as Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The Mazda CX-70’s cargo area is generous and versatile, with 36.3 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 72.8 cubic feet of space with the second row folded. The CX-70 also has an underfloor storage compartment, which can store smaller items or valuables. The 2025 Mazda CX-70 also comes with a cargo organizer accessory, which helps keep the cargo area neat and organized.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The CX-70’s infotainment system consists of a 10.3-inch touchscreen that is mounted on the dashboard and a rotary knob and buttons that are located on the center console. The system is easy to use and offers crisp graphics and fast responses. The CX-70 also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi hotspot. The CX-70 also features Amazon Alexa integration, which allows the driver to use voice commands to control various functions of the vehicle and access other Alexa services. The CX-70 also offers a wireless charging pad, a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, and a head-up display as options.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The CX-70 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, which Mazda calls i-Activsense. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera. The CX-70 also offers some additional features as options, such as a 360-degree camera system, a front and rear parking sensor system, a traffic sign recognition system, and a head-on traffic avoidance assist system, which can help prevent collisions with oncoming vehicles at intersections.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The CX-70’s warranty coverage is average for the segment, offering a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The CX-70 also offers a complimentary scheduled maintenance program for the first three years or 36,000 miles, which is a nice perk that not many rivals offer.
