2025 Mazda CX-70 Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is definitely catching some eye as it steps into the luxury midsize SUV arena. Think of it as a two-row sibling to the CX-90, yet it manages to create its own vibe. Made in Japan, this SUV showcases Mazda’s ambition to move up in the market, going toe-to-toe with big-name luxury brands while still keeping things affordable.

Now, if we look at the competition, the CX-70 is in a pretty intriguing spot. It’s not shying away from challenging heavyweights like the BMW X5, Lexus RX, and Jeep Grand Cherokee. For instance, the CX-70 delivers a similar driving feel and overall quality but usually costs about $15,000 less than a similarly equipped X5. That’s a significant difference! And when you stack it against the Lexus RX, you see a different take on luxury—while the RX leans into traditional luxury features, the CX-70 is all about that engaging drive.

Don’t forget about competitors like the Honda Passport and Toyota Crown Signia, but honestly, Mazda seems to have bigger dreams for the CX-70. With its longer wheelbase compared to many rivals, it offers more room inside while still being fun to drive. This makes it appealing not just to luxury buyers who want to save some cash, but also to everyday folks looking to upgrade their ride.

At its heart, the CX-70 really shows that Mazda gets its audience. We’re talking about drivers who crave that sporty feel but also need the practicality of an SUV. Plus, those luxury features without breaking the bank? That’s a sweet spot. And let’s not overlook the pride of having a Japanese-made vehicle—there’s a certain prestige and assurance in quality that adds to its appeal.

The timing for this release couldn’t be better. With more folks leaning toward two-row SUVs for the extra cargo space without the hassle of a third row, the CX-70 is well-positioned. It’s a great option for long-time Mazda fans wanting an upgrade and also a tempting choice for those considering luxury brands.

Overall, the way the CX-70 is packaged and the features it offers show that Mazda has really thought this through. They’ve paid close attention to what buyers want, focusing on interior quality, driving fun, and tech integration. All this comes together to create a value proposition that shakes things up in the traditional luxury market.

The 2025 CX-70 highlights what Mazda can do when it comes to engineering. At its core, you’ve got this solid 3.3-liter inline-six engine platform. The base model? It’s got a turbocharged engine that churns out a respectable 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough grunt for everyday driving without guzzling gas like some other cars.

If you decide to go for the 3.3-liter Turbo S variant, well, you’re in for a treat. It bumps the power up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Talk about a noticeable leap! This engine runs so smoothly, that it could easily stand toe to toe with pricier German competitors. The inline-six setup is just perfect for luxury cars, offering a balance and smoothness that V6 engines sometimes struggle to match.

Mazda isn’t just stopping there; they’ve got a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version too. This one’s smart—combining electric capabilities with performance. It’s got 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, plus it can run on electric power alone for up to 26 miles. The way the PHEV integrates into the overall driving experience is seamless, giving you that instant torque when you need it, all while keeping things efficient during your regular drives.

All these powertrains come with an 8-speed automatic transmission that uses a wet clutch torque converter system. Since the CX-90, this transmission has seen some serious upgrades that have improved shift quality and responsiveness. In normal driving, shifts are smooth and predictable, but it also knows how to kick into gear when you’re feeling a bit more spirited.

The transmission programming? It’s pretty clever. In Sport mode, it holds onto gears longer and provides quicker downshifts. If you fancy taking control yourself, the paddle shifters let you do that but just know that if it senses the engine isn’t in its sweet spot, it’ll switch back to automatic.

When it comes to performance, the Turbo S variant can hit 60 mph in roughly 5.4 seconds. That’s not too shabby, especially when you consider it’s going up against some higher-end luxury models. The standard engine still offers solid acceleration for everyday scenarios, so you’re not missing out either way.

Efficiency is impressive too. The standard engine gets around 23 mpg in the city and about 28 on the highway. And if you opt for the PHEV? You’re looking at over 100 MPGe if you keep it charged up regularly—that’s good if you ask me.

Also, all non-PHEV models feature a mild hybrid system. It’s a 48-volt setup that gives a nice little boost, smoothing out power delivery and enhancing efficiency. Plus, it helps with that stop-start operation, which can be turned off if it’s not your thing.

The brake pedal is designed to give you a progressive feel. This means you can adjust it just right when you’re driving normally, but if you hit a panic moment, it responds immediately.

Now, when it comes to the regenerative braking system in the mild hybrid and PHEV versions, Mazda has really nailed it. They’ve made sure it feels super natural and predictable. Unlike some hybrids where you might feel a jarring shift between regenerative and mechanical braking (which can be a bit unsettling), the CX-70 keeps a steady pedal feel throughout, which is a relief.

Also, the braking performance gets a nice boost from its rear-wheel-drive setup. This kind of platform helps with weight distribution, which means you can count on it to perform reliably—even when you’re slamming on the brakes. You really notice this when you’re driving a bit more aggressively or if you find yourself in an emergency situation.

Mazda’s gone ahead and added an electric parking brake system that plays nicely with a bunch of safety features. There’s even this automatic hold function that’s perfect for those annoying stop-and-go traffic jams. It kicks in automatically as soon as you park, which is a nice touch for those of us who might forget.

And let’s not overlook the advanced features of the brake system! You’ve got emergency brake assist and electronic brake force distribution—these work together with the vehicle’s stability control systems to keep you in check during tricky situations. They’re kind of like the silent guardians, only stepping in when you need them.

Even with the CX-70’s hefty weight, the emergency braking is still impressive. That’s all thanks to well-sized brake components and some careful tuning of the brake booster. So whether you’re cruising around empty or loaded up with stuff, you can trust that it’ll stop when you need it to.

The steering system in the CX-70 showcases Mazda’s commitment to putting drivers first. It offers this precise feedback and a natural weight that just makes you feel more connected to the car. They’ve tuned the electric power steering specifically for this model, and you can really tell—it’s got greater accuracy and less friction than what you’d find in the CX-90.

When it comes to the suspension, they’ve struck a balance between comfort and control. The CX-70 has been specially calibrated for its two-row setup and it’s got a different weight distribution compared to the CX-90. Plus, that multilink rear suspension design? It does wonders for keeping the wheels in check while still making the ride comfy.

Then there’s Mazda’s cool Kinematic Posture Control system. It’s innovative, using brake-based torque vectoring to help cut down on body roll when you’re taking turns, all without sacrificing how smooth the ride feels. It teams up with the G-Vectoring Control Plus to amp up steering response and stability.

They’ve also optimized the suspension geometry to keep the ride level—minimizing that dive when you hit the brakes and the squat when you accelerate. It’s all about those little details that help the CX-70 feel composed, whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling some rough back roads.

As for ride quality, it’s impressive across different surfaces. You might notice it feels a bit firmer than some rivals, especially those that lean heavily into comfort. But honestly, that slight firmness just adds to the sporty feel without making it harsh or uncomfortable.

The steering’s variable assistance provides appropriate weight at highway speeds while remaining light enough for easy maneuverability in parking situations. The system’s programming changes with drive modes, offering increased weight and feedback in Sport mode.

The CX-70 rolls out with 21-inch wheels, standard on the higher trim levels, and they’ve got a look that’s not just about style but also performance. The design mixes gloss black with machined aluminum, giving it that upscale vibe that fits the car’s overall feel.

Tire specification centers around 275/45R21 all-season tires, providing a good balance of performance, comfort, and all-weather capability. The Continental CrossContact series serves as the recommended tire choice, offering strong performance across a range of conditions.

What’s cool about the wider tire spec is it helps with handling and also makes the car look pretty good on the road. And that 45-series sidewall? It’s just soft enough to keep your ride comfortable without sacrificing anything in terms of control. Honestly, it’s a smart mix of performance and practicality.

Mazda really pays attention to the little things, you know? The tire and wheel setup is designed to keep road noise down while still giving the driver some feedback—so you know what’s going on with the car.

These all-season tires are great for most situations, but hey, if you live in an area where winter hits hard, it might be worth getting dedicated winter tires. The all-wheel-drive system pairs nicely with the tire package to give you solid handling no matter the conditions.

Even though those wheels are large, the tire sidewalls do a decent job of protecting against urban nuisances like potholes and curbs. This thoughtful design keeps the wheels looking sharp over time and saves you from shelling out cash for repairs.

The interior of the CX-70 is really something special—it’s a great example of a premium design that doesn’t try too hard to show off. Mazda truly gets what subtle luxury means. Take a look at the dashboard; it’s laid out horizontally, which gives a nice sense of space.

One of the standout features has got to be that tan Alcantara trim on the dashboard. It pairs beautifully with high-quality leather seats and some genuine wood or metallic touches. Plus, the two-tone color options, especially the black and tan combo, create a vibe that feels as sophisticated as some pricier luxury cars.

When it comes to the center console, it’s designed to look clean and neat without being cluttered. You’ve got all the necessary controls and storage right where you need them. Now, the shift lever is modern and sleek, but, you know, some folks might take a little time to get used to how it works. A wireless charging pad is cleanly integrated into the console design, though its effectiveness can vary depending on phone size and case thickness.

The digital instrument cluster, which is 12.3 inches, is clear and looks good, showing info in a way that’s easy on the eyes. You’ll also find a separate 12.3-inch infotainment display that fits nicely into the dashboard instead of looking like an add-on.

They’ve paid attention to the interior lighting, too. The ambient lighting adds to that premium feel without being too much. And let’s not forget the panoramic sunroof—it lets in tons of natural light, plus it has a power sunshade to help control the brightness.

Material quality is consistent throughout, even in spots that passengers might not usually touch or see. This detail-oriented mindset is evident in the headliner, which uses a nice black material instead of the usual beige you see in many other cars.

The seats are worth mentioning as well; they have some neat stitching patterns and even perforations available. You can see that they’ve focused on both how they look and how comfortable they are. And the steering wheel? It’s made with leather and other premium materials in a thoughtful two-tone design that feels just right for the car’s overall vibe.

The CX-70’s exterior design successfully translates Mazda’s “Kodo” design language into a premium midsize SUV format. The long hood and cab-rearward proportions create a dynamic stance that emphasizes the vehicle’s rear-wheel-drive platform, distinguishing it from front-wheel-drive-based competitors.

If you take a look at the front, you’ll notice this unique grille with dark chrome accents. It’s definitely different from what you get with the CX-90, but still keeps that family look. And those LED headlights? They’re not just for show. They do a great job lighting the way while also adding a touch of class with those eye-catching daytime running lights.

The new “melting copper” metallic paint option deserves special mention, offering a sophisticated finish that changes character depending on lighting conditions. The availability of color-matched body cladding, though limited to certain configurations, significantly enhances the vehicle’s premium appearance.

When you check it out from the side, you can see they paid a lot of attention to detail. There’s this character line that stretches along the side, which helps to disguise the vehicle’s size (it’s a decent size, after all). The design of the greenhouse also does a good job of keeping visibility clear while looking sleek, and that dark chrome trim? Nice touch!

Moving to the back, you’ve got those standout LED taillights and a pretty clean tailgate design. Some folks have pointed out that the roof spoiler could hang back a bit further to hide the rear wiper better, which is a fair point. And the lower bumper design? It changes depending on the engine choice, with the inline-six models getting color-matched elements.

The 21-inch wheel designs fill the wheel wells appropriately, creating a planted stance that enhances the vehicle’s premium appearance. The wheel designs themselves feature sophisticated finishing that matches the vehicle’s overall design theme.

The CX-70 brings in a bunch of cool features that really up the game in terms of convenience and functionality. One standout is the addition of Amazon Alexa, which is a fresh direction for Mazda. Still, some folks have mentioned it can be tricky to use Alexa alongside other voice command systems.

When it comes to the infotainment system, it’s versatile. You can use both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but here’s the catch: you can only use touch control if you’re on those platforms. If you’re using the native system, you’ll rely on the commander control knob. It might take a bit of getting used to, but once you do, it works pretty well.

Connected services are a nice touch too. You’ve got remote start, vehicle status monitoring, and emergency assistance at your fingertips. Plus, it can get over-the-air updates, which means it could get better features as time goes on.

The head-up display is another thoughtful addition. It shows vital info like speed, navigation, and safety system status without being distracting. And hey, if you wear polarized sunglasses, you’ll still be able to see it—kudos to Mazda for that detail.

The digital instrument cluster is pretty slick. It switches modes based on your driving style, making it easy to grab the info you need without any hassle. The graphics? They match what you’d expect from a top-tier vehicle.

Mazda hasn’t skimped on driver aids either. There’s a towing mode with specific displays and refined stability control programming. It’s clear they’ve thought about real-world scenarios here.

As for comfort, the CX-70 pays attention to both drivers and passengers. The front seats can be adjusted in eight different ways, and they’ve got memory settings too. And yeah, they heat up and cool down quietly and efficiently.

The second row is pretty comfy as well, with reclining seatbacks and heated outboard seats. The rear seats can slide back and forth, letting passengers stretch out or create more cargo space as needed. Plus, the built-in sunshades for the rear windows? A nice touch for added comfort.

Climate control is straightforward with physical buttons and knobs, making it easy to adjust while driving. You’ve got a dual-zone system that includes rear vents and separate controls for passengers in the back, although some may wish the CX-90’s third climate zone was included here.

Now, if you’re an audiophile, you’ll appreciate the available Bose premium sound system. The way the speakers are placed and tuned creates a fantastic listening experience. It also works well with the vehicle’s noise control, so you can still enjoy clear sound even when you’re cruising at highway speeds.

Storage throughout the cabin is well thought out too. You’ve got decent-sized door pockets, a wireless charging pad, and various nooks for your stuff. The center console even has a spot specifically for your key fob and phone.

The power liftgate includes hands-free operation and height adjustment, though some reviewers note that the maximum opening height could be greater to accommodate taller users. The system operates quietly and at an appropriate speed.

The safety systems in the CX-70 blend the old-school passive safety features with some advanced driver assistance tech. Basically, it’s built on Mazda’s solid safety foundation, making smart use of high-strength steel and some clever crash protection designs.

If we look at the standard i-Activsense safety suite, it’s packed with stuff like adaptive cruise control that can stop and go, automated emergency braking, lane departure warnings paired with lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring that even includes rear cross-traffic alerts. You can tell they’ve refined these features; they kick in in a way that feels smooth and natural when you need them.

One of the standout improvements is the lane-centering system. It’s a big step up from what Mazda had before, doing a great job of keeping you centered in your lane without making too many annoying adjustments. Just a heads up though, you still gotta keep your hands on the wheel, but it’s super helpful for those long highway drives.

Then there’s the 360-degree camera system, which provides a clear view from all angles. It even has a front camera that’s a lifesaver for parking and squeezing into tight spots. The interface is straightforward, although you’ll need to use the controller instead of just tapping on a screen.

As for structural safety, you’ve got multiple airbags, reinforced pillars, and specially designed crumple zones. We’re still waiting on the official crash test results, but since the CX-90 performed so well, it’s looking good for the CX-70 to score high safety ratings too.

The security system includes conventional features like an engine immobilizer and alarm, plus modern additions such as the ability to track the vehicle through Mazda’s connected services in case of theft.

The CX-70 truly showcases Mazda’s commitment to making driving enjoyable while incorporating a touch of luxury that we expect from this type of vehicle. The rear-biased all-wheel-drive system is impressive! It offers a boost of confidence during bad weather and excels when you want to enjoy a spirited drive.

When you switch between drive modes, you can feel the car’s character shift. Take Sport mode, for example—it gives you a snappier throttle response, tweaks the transmission just right, and makes the steering feel a bit heavier. You know, these changes aren’t just for show; they actually let you customize your driving experience to suit what you like.

Now, when you’re cruising on the highway, the CX-70 feels stable and does a nice job with noise control. Sure, you might hear some tire noise on rougher roads, but it’s not a deal-breaker. And let’s not forget the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping features—they’re smart and help keep driver fatigue at bay, especially on those long hauls.

Driving in the city? Well, the throttle response is spot on, and visibility is great too. But, you might notice the suspension is a bit firm when you hit some of those urban potholes and bumps. The turning radius is quite manageable for a vehicle of this size, and the clear camera systems really help when you’re parking.

Off-roading isn’t the main focus here, but you’ll be surprised—this car holds its own! The all-wheel-drive system does a fantastic job. There’s even an off-road mode that optimizes how power and traction work together, although to be honest, the approach and departure angles mean you probably won’t be tackling any serious trails.

The inline-six engine’s character deserves special mention, providing smooth power delivery and a refined sound that enhances the driving experience. The mild hybrid system’s integration is seamless, providing subtle assistance during acceleration and enabling smooth stop-start operation.

When it comes to braking, the CX-70 performs reliably, even when you’re really pushing it. The pedal feel is solid, and the response is progressive. Plus, the regenerative braking in the hybrid models is done well—none of that weird, artificial feel you might find in other hybrids.

Mazda shows off its sporty roots with the CX-70’s handling. You’ve got a controlled body roll and responsive steering that just makes you feel more confident behind the wheel. And thanks to the longer wheelbase, it’s stable on straight stretches but still easy to maneuver in tighter spots.

Wind noise? Well managed at highway speeds, though you might catch some tire noise on rough surfaces. Overall, the level of refinement here definitely meets the expectations for a premium vehicle, especially when you consider the price point. It’s a solid choice!

You know, the rear seating area in the CX-70 shines thanks to its two-row layout. It’s got plenty of space and some nice amenities that make it feel upscale. Adult passengers will find there’s a good amount of legroom, plus that sliding seat feature is a game changer. You can easily adjust the space for passengers or cargo, whatever you need at the moment.

When it comes to seat comfort, it holds up just as well as the front seats. The cushions are shaped nicely, and the bolstering gives good support. And hey, the reclining seatbacks? They make a big difference, especially on those long drives.

The outboard seats come with three-stage heating, which is great, but we guess some folks might miss having ventilation as you see in some rival models. The center armrest is practical too; it’s got sturdy cupholders and a little compartment where you can stash your phone or other small stuff.

For climate control, rear passengers have their own vents and can tweak the temperature, but here’s the catch: since the CX-90’s third zone is gone, everyone in the back shares the same settings. Still, those integrated sunshades on the rear windows? They really add a touch of class and help keep things cool when the sun’s blazing.

If you’ve got kids, the ISOFIX child seat anchors are nicely placed behind removable covers, making it super easy to access them. Plus, that sliding seat function is handy for getting the child seat just right without messing up the front seat space. And the wide door openings? They make getting in and out, or installing a car seat, a breeze.

As for the materials in the back, they’re just as nice as what you find in the front. There’s a consistent use of quality materials, and you can tell they’ve paid attention to how everything fits together. The panoramic sunroof—it stretches over the back seats, giving that open and airy vibe that everyone loves when riding in the back.

The cargo area of the CX-70 shows off some smart design, you know? It maximizes space without losing that premium feel that Mazda is known for. When the rear seats are up, you get 40 cubic feet of cargo space, and if you fold those seats down, bam! You’re looking at 75 cubic feet. Impressive, right?

Loading and unloading is a breeze thanks to the load floor being at a comfy height. Plus, the relatively low lift-over height makes it easier to deal with heavy items. And let’s talk about the power liftgate—it operates smoothly and you can even set it to stop at different heights. Although we gotta say, some taller folks might find that the highest setting doesn’t quite cut it.

Mazda has kept the utility rails and tie-down points from the CX-90, which is great for securing your cargo in all sorts of ways. And those bag hooks and small storage spots? Just shows they thought about real-life scenarios and how people actually use their cars.

One cool feature is the multi-level floor system. It has these hidden compartments that are just perfect for stashing away valuables or emergency gear. Oh, and there’s a spot for the cargo cover when you’re not using it—super handy, right? That’s a common pain point addressed.

The cargo area is designed with versatility in mind, boasting both 12V and 120V power outlets. The 120V outlet can handle 150 watts, which isn’t enough for power tools, but it’s definitely good for portable devices and even some camping gear.

Folding the rear seats down is easy with the buttons located in the cargo area and on the seats themselves. It’s smooth sailing, and you won’t have to shuffle the front seats forward, which is a nice touch that makes life easier.

Side storage compartments provide additional space for smaller items, while the underfloor storage area accommodates the spare tire without compromising the main cargo area’s utility.

The CX-70 is kind of an interesting case when you think about where it fits in the market—it’s straddling that line between mainstream and luxury. The base model kicks off at around $41,910, and if you want all the bells and whistles, you’re looking at about $62,600. That’s a hefty price tag, but it’s still less than what you’d pay for some traditional luxury brands, which is a nice perk.

If we stack it up against something like the BMW X5, you’ll see it costs, on average, about $15,000 to $20,000 more, especially when you equip them similarly. The CX-70 does a good job of matching the quality of materials and performance. Sure, it’s not going to carry the same brand prestige as BMW, but when you look at all the standard features and the engineering finesse—like that inline-six engine—it starts to look like a pretty sweet deal.

If you’re looking at the middle-tier models, the 3.3L Turbo S Premium is where the magic happens. It’s got that extra power and the luxury features that folks want, all while keeping the price lower than its luxury-brand rivals.

The plug-in hybrid version—that one’s got a starting price of $58,750, which puts it right in the ring with other high-end hybrid SUVs. Sure, it might cost more upfront, but then you’ve got potential savings on fuel and maybe some tax breaks, which can help ease that initial hit to your wallet. Just keep in mind, that the value hinges on how you plan to use it and if you have easy access to charging stations.

Looking ahead, the resale value of the CX-70 seems to be in good shape. Mazda has built a solid reputation for reliability, and the fact that it’s engineered well and made in Japan should help keep those residual values strong.

Overall, Mazda’s pricing strategy is strategic. They’re clearly aiming for that upmarket vibe while still offering a better value compared to the usual luxury suspects. Plus, they’ve got a solid warranty to back it up—3 years or 36,000 miles for the basic warranty, and 5 years or 60,000 miles for the powertrain. That’s right in line with what you’d expect in this segment.