How Toyota Crown Signia Stacks Up To The Mazda CX-70

The Crown nameplate is one of the oldest in Toyota history. It dates back to 1955 and 16 generations later, the model has become quite a bit different than its initial iterations. Originally conceived as a sedan, the 16th generation changed that by going the crossover route. In 2025, Toyota Crown got a true SUV variant in the Signia, and while it seems Toyota has finally given us a sleek SUV model, the competition is stern.  

On paper, the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia adheres to most requirements of the typical Toyota customer, but I think Toyota could have gone further and made it a bit more exciting. Apparently, many prospective buyers on Reddit think the same. Here's what the Toyota Crown Signia is, what it could have been, and what people think of it. 

I think such feedback is healthy for carmakers as it gives accurate information as to what direction a carmaker should take with a certain model.  

Toyota Crown Signia is bound to the road, and may lag behind the competition 

It doesn't take long to notice the Crown Signia lacks the rugged, off-road characteristics of models like the new Toyota 4Runner or the hybrid-only Toyota Land Cruiser J250. The sleek design and 21-inch wheels are proof enough that the model is bound to the asphalt. Instead of boring you by repeating everything from the press release, I am looking at what I think Toyota should have done and the reason people are willing to go for the alternatives. 

The 2025 Crown Signia benefits from Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid powertrains, revolving around the Dynamic Force engine. So far, there is only one option, but I do hope Toyota brings out a more powerful version soon, as some of the main competitors like the Mazda CX-70 already offer much more exciting engines. 

2025 Toyota Crown Signia performance specifications 

1. Engine – 2.5-liter, naturally-aspirated inline-four FHEV + 2 e-Motors 

2. System output – 240 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, 177 pound-feet at 4,300-4,500 RPM  

3. Electric motor output – 182 horsepower and 199 pound-feet (e-Motor 1), 54 horsepower and 89 pound-feet (e-Motor 2). 

4. Transmission and driveline: e-CVT, AWD 

5. Fuel economy (EPA): 38 MPG combined, 39 MPG city, 37 MPG highway 

6. 0-60 MPH: 6.9 seconds 

7. Towing capacity: 2,700 pounds 

Some Toyota Crown Signia alternatives have a significant edge 

Bang for the buck is, often, the main deciding factor for the majority of buyers, and people on Reddit are already discussing why they would go for a model from another brand, despite the Toyota Crown Signia being a solid offering.  

Reddit user, PlentySeat92, gave a detailed answer: “I ordered a CX70 and it’s supposed to be on a boat headed for Tacoma, WA. Hopefully I will get it next month. I ordered it because I wanted a roadtrip vehicle. My wife’s NX350h is good for city driving or short trips. 

I didn’t need anything to be hardcore, and 340hp with close to 30mpg sounded great to me. I liked the sound system better than what I’ve heard in a Grand Highlander. 

Also, I like it that it has buttons and a knob for the infotainment system. After using my wife’s big 14” touch screen, it’s just easier to use when in motion. 

I ordered the premiere towing package. I like that it can tow 5000lbs. I drove a CX 90 and was impressed with the handling, for the size of the vehicle. 

This is my first Mazda. I’ve always driven American brands. After the UAW came out with their recent endorsement, I decided to give something else a try. I’m looking forward to it”. 

Moreover, when asked, PlentySeat92 shared that he had acquired his Mazda CX-70 for $500 under the MSRP. “-$500. The price is around $56k. Rhodium White with Red Leather Premium Plus Turbo S. I’d have to find the printout, but I ordered almost everything (I passed on the rearview mirror— I hate it on my wife’s Lexus)”. 

Does Mazda CX-70 really tick all the boxes? 

Although both SUVs look stylish, aesthetics is a subjective topic. Hence, I am focusing on the numbers. 

Mazda CX-70 Turbo S performance specifications 

1. Engine: 3.3-liter, turbocharged, inline-six MHEV + 1 e-Motor 

2. Output: 340 horsepower at 5,000 RPM, 369 pound-feet at 2,000 RPM 

3. Electric motor output: 17 horsepower, 113 pound-feet 

4. Transmission and driveline: eight-speed automatic, 4WD 

5. Fuel economy (estimated): 26 MPG combined, 25 MPG city, 30 MPG highway 

6. 0-60 MPH: 6.0 seconds 

7. Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds (with optional towing premiere package) 

Instead of reciting the press releases and spec sheets of both models, I decided to look at testimonies from current, future, or prospective buyers. Here's what some of them say: 

Reddit user, Striper1955, says: “CX70 will have an 8-speed transmission and a smooth, six-cylinder engine, but is too big compared to CX5, CX7. Crown Signia looks great but driving dynamics are unknown. Signia lacks heads up display and has the reliable e-CVT tranny. I prefer shift points and a smooth engine. I am in the same boat. Will test drive the Signia when it shows up at my local dealer”. 

DM725 adds: “The CX-70 is incredibly well equipped at the Premium trim ($46K). Hard to beat in that price point”. 

Not all is against the Toyota Crown Signia though as it may be the perfect size for city dwellers. Reddit user, Dorkbydesignca, says: “I test-drove the cx-70, I liked the drive and the feel, but it felt like too big of a car for me (live in the city). When sitting, even when adjusted it was too high for me. I've put a deposit for the Crown Signia and test-drove the Crown to get an idea of feel and dimension. From what I extrapolated the Crown Signia is a better ride for where we are at this stage, but if I was 10 years younger and living in a more spacious residential / work situation, I would do the CX-70 all day. Crown feels luxury/old, CX-70 feels chic/young professional”. 

What I think Toyota should do with the Crown Signia 

There's no denying that, sometimes, Toyota likes to be a bit more conservative. That said, the market for stylish, five-seater SUVs is not a place where you can afford to play it safe. Given competitors like Mazda have much more exciting powerplants, I think Toyota should grace the Crown Signia with the 2.4-liter i-Force Max engine.

We know a V-6 is unlikely, but at the very least, the J250 Land Cruiser's 326-horsepower, hybrid powertrain would be an ideal candidate, especially when paired with the eight-speed, Direct-shift automatic. Can this be seen on a Toyota Crown Signia GR Sport, and would it be enough to steal some clients from the more exciting propositions? Share your thoughts in the comment section below. 

About the author

Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.

Image sources: 2025 Toyota Crown Signia, 2025 Mazda CX-70