Mazda Nailed All Of The Exterior Elements of The 2025 CX-70 and The Interior Is Impressive and Of Very High Quality

Mazda's new CX-70 and its year-old CX-90 sibling are both mid-size SUVs that follow a similar template to competitors such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L. The CX-70 is a two-row offering that seats five passengers, while the CX-90 has three rows and can seat up to eight. We think Mazda's decision to offer two separate nameplates is strange, though, because the CX-70 is a virtual twin to the CX-90—the same size only without the rearmost row of seats. (The Grand Cherokee L is longer overall with a longer wheelbase.) What's more, the CX-70 offers the same inline-six and plug-in-hybrid powertrains as its sibling, with the only real differentiators for the CX-70 being interior and exterior trim options plus a rearranged cargo area.

With the 2025 Mazda CX-70, the automaker has crafted a luxurious, well-rounded mid-size SUV that stands out in its class. For a deeper look into Mazda’s vision for the CX-70 and how it fits into their evolving lineup, check out our coverage of the official reveal: Mazda Reveals All-New CX-70 Crossover SUV. This article dives into the design, technology, and strategy behind this exciting new model.

While we may question Mazda’s strategy of pitching the CX-70 as a distinct model, there’s no denying its appeal. The CX-70 offers a similarly luxurious and refined driving experience as its three-row counterpart but with a sportier vibe. The absence of the third row allows for a more spacious cargo area, giving the CX-70 an edge for those who prioritize practicality. Mazda has also leaned heavily into their upscale ambitions with this SUV, delivering a premium interior, stellar safety features, and an engaging driving dynamic that make it a standout in its segment. After spending time behind the wheel, it’s clear that Mazda has crafted a vehicle that punches well above its weight class—and at a price point that makes competitors like the Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60, and Genesis GV80 hard to justify.

What’s New for the 2025 Mazda CX-70?

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 introduces a fresh nameplate to the brand’s lineup, but its DNA is unmistakably shared with last year’s CX-90. Essentially a two-row counterpart to the three-row CX-90, the CX-70 offers a sleek and sporty option for buyers who don’t need the extra seating. What sets the CX-70 apart this year are some subtle yet effective updates.

For 2025, the CX-70 gets blacked-out exterior trim that lends it a more aggressive and modern look, complemented by a new wheel design that enhances its athletic stance. Inside, Mazda has added thoughtful touches like Amazon Alexa integration, making the infotainment system even more versatile. Another new feature is an underfloor storage compartment in the cargo area, offering additional functionality and convenience for storing smaller items out of sight. These updates make an already impressive SUV even more compelling for buyers seeking a mix of luxury and practicality.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offers a compelling mix of luxury, performance, and affordability, making it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market. But how does it stack up against unconventional rivals like the Toyota Crown Signia? We’ve broken down the key differences in this head-to-head comparison: How Does the Toyota Crown Signia Stack Up Against the Mazda CX-70?. Spoiler alert: the CX-70’s value and handling might just surprise you.

Trims and Pricing: Which One Should You Buy?

Mazda has streamlined the CX-70’s trim lineup to cater to a variety of budgets and needs. Pricing starts at $41,900 for the base model and climbs to $57,405 for the top-of-the-line trim. Here's how the trims break down:

• Preferred: $41,900
  The entry-level trim comes well-equipped with standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a premium interior, and Mazda’s suite of safety features, making it a great value.
• Premium: $47,355
  Stepping up to the Premium trim adds luxury touches like leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, and upgraded audio for a more refined experience.
• Premium Plus: $50,355
  For buyers looking for more tech and comfort, the Premium Plus trim offers ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded navigation system.
• S Premium: $53,905
  The S Premium introduces Mazda’s powerful inline-six engine, giving the CX-70 an extra dose of performance along with advanced safety features like a surround-view camera.
• S Premium Plus: $57,405
  At the top of the range, the S Premium Plus combines all the bells and whistles, including Nappa leather seating, a heads-up display, and a premium interior finish that rivals luxury brands.
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If you’re looking for the best value, we recommend the Premium trim. It strikes the perfect balance between affordability and luxury with its upgraded interior, tech features, and enhanced comfort. However, buyers who want the extra performance of the inline-six engine should consider the S Premium, which delivers thrilling performance while keeping the price reasonable compared to luxury competitors.

Engine and Transmission: Turbocharged Power with a Driver's Edge

Under the hood, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 showcases its commitment to blending power and refinement with a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine. This setup delivers 280 horsepower in its standard configuration, while the S trims crank up the excitement with a boosted 340 horsepower output. Mazda has carried over this engine from its larger CX-90 sibling, and it continues to impress with smooth power delivery and a level of refinement that stands out in this segment. However, during our test drive, we noticed that the engine’s typically composed demeanor gives way to a bit of growl when pushed hard, particularly under aggressive acceleration.

Paired with the engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission. While it performs admirably for most driving scenarios, we found it occasionally hesitant to respond to inputs from the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. This slight delay can be a minor drawback for those who enjoy a more hands-on driving experience. On the bright side, the CX-70’s platform shines in terms of handling. Like the CX-90, it delivers a nimble, sure-footed ride that belies its size, offering sharp steering and confident cornering. For a midsize SUV, the CX-70 feels remarkably agile, making it a standout for drivers who value performance-oriented dynamics in a family-friendly package.

Mazda’s focus on delivering a dynamic and engaging drive, combined with the power and sophistication of its inline-six engine, sets the CX-70 apart from many competitors in the midsize SUV category. Whether navigating city streets or carving through winding roads, the CX-70’s drivetrain delivers an experience that’s both practical and spirited.

For this review I test-drove the S Premium Plus trim of the CX-70. The CX-70 is rated by the EPA at 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined. In my real-world city/highway fuel-economy test, the CX-70 S Premium Plus delivered 26 mpg.

Interior Comfort and Infotainment: Where Refinement Meets Functionality

Mazda has built a reputation for crafting upscale interiors that punch well above their price point, and the 2025 CX-70 continues this tradition. Step inside, and you’re greeted with an elegant cabin that mirrors the premium aesthetic of its three-row sibling, the CX-90. Soft-touch materials, meticulous stitching, and an understated yet sophisticated design make the interior feel like it belongs to a far more expensive SUV. Unique to the CX-70 is the availability of a striking red leather upholstery option, which adds a bold splash of personality to the otherwise subdued palette.

Unlike the CX-90, the CX-70 ditches the third row, focusing instead on spacious and luxurious accommodations for five passengers. Rear-seat passengers will appreciate the 90-degree-opening doors, which make entry and exit a breeze, and the cargo area benefits from the lack of a third row. It offers generous space comparable to the CX-90 with its third row folded, along with a new, larger underfloor storage compartment for stowing smaller items out of sight.

Tech-savvy drivers will find plenty to like in the CX-70’s infotainment setup. A standard 12.3-inch display is front and center, running Mazda’s latest software. While it isn’t a touchscreen, Mazda’s control knob and button system on the center console provide an intuitive alternative, even if some might prefer the simplicity of direct touch input. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard and connect wirelessly, offering seamless integration for your smartphone. New for 2025 is the option to add Amazon Alexa, letting you manage your home devices or stream music with a simple voice command.

Higher trims take the tech game up a notch with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and an available head-up display that projects key driving information onto the windshield. Premium trims and above also treat your ears to a premium audio experience, courtesy of a 12-speaker Bose sound system. From the tactile luxury of the materials to the thoughtful inclusion of advanced tech, the CX-70’s cabin is a masterclass in marrying comfort, style, and functionality.

Exterior Design: A Harmonious Blend of Elegance and Sportiness

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 exemplifies Mazda's Kodo design philosophy, which emphasizes the dynamic beauty of motion even when the vehicle is stationary. Its sleek and aerodynamic silhouette is accentuated by a wide, low front fascia that conveys a sense of stability and confidence on the road.

One of the standout features of the CX-70 is its distinctive blacked-out exterior trim, setting it apart from its CX-90 sibling. This includes smoked chrome accents, black plastic door handles, and side-window surrounds that contribute to a cohesive and modern aesthetic. The unique front and rear bumpers further enhance its sporty appeal, while the new wheel designs, ranging from 19 to 21 inches, provide a robust stance that complements the vehicle's overall design.

The CX-70 also introduced a new paint color, Melting Copper Metallic, which has garnered attention for its eye-catching appearance. This color option adds a layer of sophistication and uniqueness, making the vehicle stand out in various environments.

Functional design elements have not been overlooked. The inclusion of active grille shutters and underbody cladding reduces aerodynamic drag, enhancing fuel efficiency and stability at highway speeds.

In terms of lighting, the CX-70 comes equipped with standard LED headlights that provide excellent visibility. Higher trims offer adaptive LED headlights, which adjust the light pattern based on driving conditions, further enhancing safety and driving comfort.

As the 2025 Mazda CX-70 is a new addition to Mazda's lineup, specific maintenance cost data is not yet widely available. However, we can provide some insights based on general Mazda maintenance practices and the CX-70's specifications.

Mazda's Maintenance Schedule and Costs

Mazda vehicles are known for their reliability and relatively low maintenance costs compared to other brands. The company typically recommends regular maintenance intervals, including oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and other routine services. Adhering to these schedules helps maintain vehicle performance and longevity.

For the CX-70, Mazda has provided a maintenance brochure that outlines essential service procedures and highlights the benefits of regular maintenance at authorized Mazda retailers. This brochure can be accessed here:

Warranty Coverage

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 comes with a standard warranty that includes:

• Limited Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
• Powertrain Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles

This warranty coverage can help offset some maintenance and repair costs during the initial years of ownership.

Factors Influencing Maintenance Costs

Several factors can influence the maintenance costs of the CX-70:

• Driving Habits: Aggressive driving can lead to increased wear and tear, necessitating more frequent maintenance.
• Environmental Conditions: Harsh weather conditions can impact vehicle components, potentially increasing maintenance needs.
• Usage Patterns: Frequent short trips or extensive idling can affect engine performance and maintenance schedules.

If you're curious about how the plug-in hybrid version of the CX-70 stacks up in terms of performance, features, and real-world usability, be sure to check out our in-depth review of the 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus. This detailed exploration delves into how the electrified version elevates Mazda's approach to modern SUVs—perfect for those looking to balance luxury, efficiency, and innovation.

Recommendations for Owners

To ensure optimal performance and manage maintenance costs:

• Follow the Manufacturer's Maintenance Schedule: Adhering to the recommended service intervals is crucial.
• Use Authorized Service Centers: Mazda-certified technicians are trained to service your vehicle properly, which can prevent costly repairs in the future.
• Keep Detailed Service Records: Maintaining a record of all services can help in warranty claims and when selling the vehicle.

While specific maintenance cost data for the 2025 Mazda CX-70 is not yet available, following Mazda's recommended maintenance schedule and utilizing authorized service centers can help manage and potentially reduce overall maintenance expenses.

How the 2025 Mazda CX-70 Handles the Roads

Mazda’s commitment to creating vehicles that connect the driver to the road is once again exemplified in the 2025 Mazda CX-70. From its powerful turbocharged engine options to its precisely tuned suspension, the CX-70 is engineered to deliver a driving experience that feels sporty yet comfortable—an impressive feat for a midsize SUV.

Road Handling and Steering Precision

The CX-70 benefits from Mazda's renowned chassis dynamics, offering a well-balanced combination of agility and stability. Whether you're weaving through urban traffic or tackling curvy backroads, the SUV feels remarkably composed. Mazda has fine-tuned its suspension to minimize body roll while maintaining a plush ride, making it equally suited for spirited driving and long highway trips. The electric-assist steering is tight and direct, providing exceptional feedback that gives drivers a sense of confidence and control. It’s no exaggeration to say that the CX-70 handles more like a sporty sedan than a bulky SUV.

Engine Performance and Power Delivery

At the heart of the CX-70 is a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 280 horsepower in standard trims and 340 horsepower in the "S" variants. The engine’s smooth power delivery and robust torque make merging onto highways or overtaking slower vehicles effortless. While the eight-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth, some testers noted it could feel hesitant when responding to aggressive inputs through the paddle shifters. This minor hiccup doesn't overshadow the engine’s refinement or its ability to provide ample power for any driving scenario.

Ride Comfort and Noise Suppression

Mazda's engineers have also done an impressive job minimizing road noise and vibration, creating a tranquil cabin environment. The CX-70’s sound insulation rivals luxury SUVs like the Genesis GV80 and Acura MDX, making conversations easy even at highway speeds. However, the engine can sound a bit loud under hard acceleration—a small tradeoff for its impressive performance.

Off-Road Confidence

While not a dedicated off-roader, the CX-70’s i-Activ all-wheel-drive system enhances grip and stability on loose or slippery surfaces. Pair that with its ground clearance, and you have a vehicle capable of handling light trails or snowy roads with ease. It may not be Jeep Grand Cherokee-level rugged, but it’s well-suited for most adventurous lifestyles.

Fuel Economy: A Solid Balance

Despite its sporty performance, the CX-70 manages a competitive fuel economy rating. The base engine achieves around 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the more powerful "S" trims come in slightly lower at 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. For an SUV with this level of performance, these numbers are impressive and make the CX-70 a practical choice for everyday commuting and long-distance travel.

Verdict: A Joyful Drive

Mazda has built a reputation for delivering vehicles that prioritize driving enjoyment, and the 2025 CX-70 is no exception. Its responsive handling, comfortable ride, and impressive powertrain options make it one of the most engaging SUVs in its class. If you’re someone who values precision and driver involvement, the CX-70 is a midsize SUV that could easily exceed your expectations while still offering practicality and refinement for daily life.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.