Mazda continues its SUV offensive with the 2025 CX-70, a vehicle that shares much with its stablemates but carves out a slightly different niche. Priced around $58,000 for the top-tier 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus model, the CX-70 certainly asks a premium for what is still considered a Mazda. However, as you’ll see, this SUV boasts a level of sophistication that arguably justifies its price. Yet, a critical question lingers: in a lineup that includes the incredibly similar and more versatile CX-90, does the 2025 Mazda CX-70 truly make sense? This review delves into the details to help you decide.
Alt: Striking exterior of a Soul Red 2025 Mazda CX-70 Turbo S SUV.
The immediate impression of the 2025 Mazda CX-70 is undeniably positive. It’s a visually stunning vehicle, both inside and out, rivaling luxury brands like Lexus in terms of perceived quality and design. But beneath the surface beauty, a fundamental question arises about its purpose. Why choose the CX-70 when the mechanically identical CX-90 offers superior practicality? The core issue is the CX-70’s configuration as a large, full-size SUV without the added benefit of third-row seating. Measuring a substantial 201 inches long and 78 inches wide, this is a big vehicle. While some might argue they don’t need a third row, the flexibility it provides for occasional extra passengers, whether friends or family, is an invaluable asset that enhances the overall utility of a vehicle in this class.
When comparing the two, the CX-90 with its three rows and the CX-70 with just two, the rationale behind opting for the latter becomes hazy. Especially considering there’s no significant price advantage to the CX-70. Visually, distinguishing between the two is a challenge for the untrained eye. Furthermore, the cargo space remains consistent between both models when the CX-90’s third row is folded, offering 40 cubic feet of storage in either configuration. This lack of differentiation in key areas makes the CX-70’s positioning somewhat perplexing.
Alt: Premium Plus interior of the 2025 Mazda CX-70 showcasing luxurious materials and design.
Setting aside the practicality debate, the 2025 CX-70 mirrors the CX-90 in its numerous positive attributes. The interior, particularly in higher trims, exudes luxury and meticulous craftsmanship. While the sound of the doors closing might hint at its non-luxury brand origins, the overall cabin experience is remarkably refined. From the plush dashboard coverings to the supple leather seats, Mazda has elevated its interior game to new heights. Experiencing the CX-70’s interior firsthand will likely recalibrate your expectations for mainstream brands, potentially making competitors like Toyota feel less appealing in comparison.
Mazda’s renowned driving dynamics are also present and accounted for in the CX-70. Mirroring the CX-90, this SUV exhibits an unexpected athleticism for its size. The steering is nicely weighted and communicative, providing a level of engagement that is rare in this segment. Body control is commendable, contributing to a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. Mazda has skillfully managed to blend driving fun with ride comfort. While the ride is firmer than some rivals to achieve this handling prowess, it remains comfortable and well-composed for daily driving. A minor critique in this particular test vehicle was a slight dead zone in the steering at center, possibly due to alignment, but overall, the driving dynamics are a strong selling point.
Alt: Detailed view of the sophisticated interior design of the 2025 Mazda CX-70.
A significant highlight of the 2025 Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 is the introduction of the new turbocharged inline-six engine. In the Turbo S configuration, it delivers a robust 340 horsepower. This engine is characterized by its smooth revving nature and ample power, accompanied by a satisfying growl under heavier acceleration. This is a welcome departure from the often less refined four-cylinder engines that are prevalent in the market. Fuel economy is also respectable, with this model achieving 23 MPG overall during testing, although a CX-90 with the same engine managed a slightly better 26 MPG.
However, the inline-six engine is not without its drawbacks. A notable issue is its low-speed behavior. The engine and transmission can feel somewhat hesitant and unrefined in stop-and-go situations, particularly during transitions from braking or coasting at low speeds, such as in traffic or parking lots. This characteristic, while also observed to a lesser extent in the CX-90, seems more pronounced in the CX-70. This low-speed roughness detracts from the otherwise luxurious feel of the vehicle and gives a slightly unfinished impression to the powertrain. While some drivers might not find this issue bothersome, it’s a point worth considering, especially for those who prioritize smooth low-speed driving.
Alt: Close-up of the driver’s side interior of the 2025 Mazda CX-70 emphasizing the ergonomic design.
In conclusion, reviewing the 2025 Mazda CX-70 inevitably feels like reviewing the CX-90, albeit with a crucial element missing. The absence of the third-row seat in the CX-70 significantly diminishes its practicality without offering any tangible benefits in return. While other brands offer coupe versions of their SUVs with distinct styling, the CX-70 and CX-90 are visually too similar to justify the CX-70’s existence based on style alone. Both models are also available as plug-in hybrids with a four-cylinder engine, but this powertrain is best avoided due to its lack of refinement and questionable fuel economy benefits.
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 represent an exciting step forward for Mazda, showcasing their ability to deliver vehicles with premium interiors, engaging driving dynamics, and powerful engines. However, when choosing between these two excellent SUVs, the recommendation leans heavily towards the CX-90. The added versatility of the third row in the CX-90 makes it the unequivocally more sensible choice. Even if you rarely use the third row, its availability provides a valuable safety net and enhanced functionality that you might appreciate more than you anticipate. Therefore, while the 2025 Mazda CX-70 is a stylish and well-executed SUV, its lack of practicality compared to the CX-90 makes it a less compelling option in the Mazda lineup.
2025 Mazda CX-70 Turbo S Premium Plus
As-tested price: Approximately $58,000
Starting price: Approximately $41,000
Pros:
- High-quality interior and exterior design
- Refined and powerful inline-six engine
- Engaging driving dynamics
Cons:
- Engine exhibits low-speed hesitation
- Lacks third-row seating, reducing practicality compared to CX-90
Alt: Rear cargo area of the 2025 Mazda CX-70, demonstrating storage capacity.
