Mazda has been on a roll with its new SUV lineup, and the 2025 CX-70 is the latest entrant. This vehicle certainly catches the eye with its upscale design and promises a premium experience. However, as we delve into this mazda cx-70 review, a critical question emerges: does it offer enough practicality to justify its existence, especially when compared to its stablemate, the CX-90? Priced around $58,000 for the top-tier 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus model, the CX-70 enters a competitive market segment. While the aesthetics and luxurious feel are undeniable, a closer look reveals a potential flaw that might make you question its place in Mazda’s otherwise impressive SUV family.
Stunning Design and Premium Interior of the Mazda CX-70
Let’s be clear from the outset, the Mazda CX-70 is a visually stunning SUV, both inside and out. It exudes a level of sophistication rarely seen in its class, approaching luxury car territory. Stepping inside, you are greeted with an interior that rivals even established luxury brands like Lexus in terms of material quality and design execution, though Lexus still holds an edge as a dedicated luxury marque with a higher price point. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, from the plush dash coverings to the meticulously crafted leather seats. Mazda has truly elevated its interior game, creating an environment that feels genuinely premium and inviting. It’s a space that impresses and makes you feel like you are getting your money’s worth, at least in terms of perceived luxury.
Engaging Driving Dynamics – A Mazda Hallmark
Mazda has consistently impressed with the driving dynamics of its vehicles, and the CX-70 is no exception. Mirroring the CX-90, this SUV boasts an athleticism that becomes apparent the moment you grip the substantial, well-weighted steering wheel. The CX-70 exhibits remarkable body control and balance, defying the typical expectations for a vehicle of its size. It’s genuinely enjoyable to drive, offering a level of handling prowess that sets it apart in the SUV segment. What’s even more impressive is Mazda’s ability to blend this sporty handling with a comfortable ride quality. While the ride is firmer than some rivals to achieve this cornering ability, it remains comfortable and well-composed, striking a pleasant balance for daily driving. Some might find the steering slightly vague on-center, possibly due to alignment, but overall, the driving experience is a significant strength of the CX-70.
Potent Inline-Six Engine Performance
Under the hood, the CX-70, like the CX-90, introduces Mazda’s new turbocharged inline-six cylinder engine. In the Turbo S configuration, this powerplant delivers a robust 340 horsepower. The engine is a smooth revver, providing ample power with a satisfying and authentic growl when you push the accelerator. This is a welcome departure from the often-criticized grainy four-cylinder engines that are becoming increasingly common in the market. Fuel economy is also respectable for its class, with a reported 23 MPG overall in testing. Interestingly, a CX-90 with the same engine achieved an even better 26 MPG in similar conditions, raising further questions about the CX-70’s efficiency advantage, if any.
A Significant Drawback: Low-Speed Engine Hesitation
Despite the engine’s overall strengths, a notable issue surfaces in low-speed situations. The engine and transmission exhibit a lack of refinement at slower speeds, characterized by delayed responses and a somewhat грубый (gruff) behavior. This is most noticeable during transitions from braking or coasting at walking pace, such as in traffic or parking lots. This characteristic, also observed to a lesser extent in the CX-90, is more pronounced in the CX-70. It unfortunately detracts from the otherwise luxurious feel of the vehicle, making the powertrain feel somewhat unfinished. While some drivers might not be as sensitive to this issue, it’s a point that warrants attention and could be a deal-breaker for those seeking ultimate smoothness and refinement in all driving conditions.
The Practicality Puzzle: CX-70 vs. CX-90
This brings us to the central question of this mazda cx-70 review: why choose the CX-70 over the CX-90? The most glaring issue is the CX-70’s lack of a third-row seat. Despite being virtually the same size as the CX-90 – a large, 201-inch long and 78-inch wide SUV – the CX-70 only offers two rows of seating. In a vehicle of this magnitude, the absence of a third row is a significant limitation. The argument that extra seating is rarely needed doesn’t hold much weight. Even if you don’t regularly transport large families, the flexibility of a third row for occasional carpooling with friends or accommodating extra passengers is invaluable. Moreover, the cargo space remains identical to the CX-90 with the third row folded, offering 40 cubic feet. Given that there’s no discernible price difference between the two models and they share nearly identical aesthetics, the CX-70’s reduced practicality becomes difficult to justify. Unlike coupe versions of SUVs from other brands like BMW’s X5 and X6 which offer a distinct style difference, the CX-70 and CX-90 are visually almost indistinguishable, further blurring the lines of the CX-70’s purpose.
Final Verdict: Style Over Substance?
In conclusion, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 is undoubtedly a stylish and luxurious SUV with engaging driving dynamics and a potent engine. However, its lack of practicality, specifically the missing third-row seat in a vehicle of its size, makes it a questionable choice compared to the more versatile CX-90. While the CX-70 shares the strengths of the CX-90, it also inherits some of its weaknesses, such as the low-speed engine refinement issue, which are further amplified by the reduced practicality. Unless you have a very specific need for a two-row SUV in this size class and are willing to sacrifice the added versatility of a third row, the Mazda CX-90 appears to be the more sensible and ultimately more rewarding option. While the CX-70 represents Mazda’s exciting new direction and next-generation vehicles, it might be prudent to overlook this model and focus your attention on the more practical and equally appealing CX-90. You might just be thankful for that extra row of seats down the line.
2025 Mazda CX-70 Turbo S Premium Plus
As-tested price: About $58,000
Starting price: About $41,000
Pros:
- A-list interior and exterior design
- Refined inline-six engine sounds
- Agile and deft handling
Cons:
- Engine stutters at low speed
- Large size with no third-row seat
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