Mazda has taken some heat regarding two SUVs that share many similarities. Head scratch if you must, because the reason for this is far from obvious.
Mazda is recognized for making quality SUVs, there’s no disputing that. U.S. News & World Report rated Mazda the Best SUV Brand for 2024. However, many people question why the company would release the new three-row Mazda CX-90 in 2024 and come right back with a nearly identical two-row SUV, the 2025 Mazda CX-70.
The two SUVs have the same platform, powertrains, body, similar exterior and interior designs, and both offer a plug-in hybrid version. From our vantage point, fold down the CX-90’s third row and presto – you’ve got the CX-70.
Another baffling discovery here – the two-row SUV costs more than the CX-90! We can’t recall when a manufacturer’s larger SUV cost less than a smaller one. The CX-70 starts at roughly $40,450 and the CX-90 begins at $37,900. At least the price difference makes sense. The base price for the CX-70 is higher because it starts with a “preferred” model and has more standard equipment (leather seats, sunroof, heated door mirrors).
It’s a given the CX-90 is more suited for larger families. It can seat up to eight passengers, while the CX-70 accommodates five and caters to folks with active lifestyles that have no need for a third row. Both SUVS have nearly identical dimensions and weight, and deliver elegant styling and are fun to drive.
This remainder of this review will focus solely on the CX-70.
The CX-70 slots in between the smaller CX-50 and the CX-90, the largest Mazda SUV. The CX-70 is known for its sporty handling and quick acceleration. Its three engine choices all provide good gas mileage and the plug-in hybrid has a range of 26 miles in electric mode.
All versions of the CX-70 come standard with all-wheel drive and have an 8.1-inch ground clearance, high enough for some mild off-road excursions. The turbocharged 3.3-liter, V6 comes with either 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque or 340 horsepower with 369 pound-feet of torque. The plug-in hybrid has an electric motor combining with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder to produce 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.
All three engines are fast for an SUV. The V6 models go roughly 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds and the plug-in hybrid is a bit faster, clocking a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. The payload is 1,138 pounds and towing capacity lies between 3,500 and 5,000 pounds.
We like how the CX-70 handles in all driving situations. It has a sporty feel, the steering is sharp and the SUV can navigate challenging, curvy roads adroitly. Tight parking lots are also no problem.
AT A GLANCE –2025 MAZDA CX-70
- Performance: turbocharged 3.3-liter, V6, 280 horsepower; turbo 3.3-liter, V6, 340 horsepower; electric motor, 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, 323 horsepower
- Mileage estimate: 23-28 mpg; 23-28 mpg; 65 mpge
- Price estimate: $40,450 to $57,500
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; Drivetrain: 5 years/60,000 miles; Roadside assistance: 3 years/36,000; Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited
Standard driver safety feature including blind spot monitoring, smart brake support, driver attention alert, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, radar cruise control with stop and go, vehicle exit warning, rear seat alert, and emergency lane keeping.
The CX-70 interior could easily be mistaken for a luxury brand. It has a smart design and provides comfort for all five passengers. There’s excellent cargo space as well – 39.5 cubic feet behind the second row that expands to 75.3 cubes with the row folded down.
The SUV has a 12.3-inch infotainment system and uses Mazda’s latest software. Unfortunately, not everything is intuitive; there’s a learning curve in mastering the touchscreen. There’s a control knob and several buttons on the center console that aid in monitoring the display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
If having to make the choice, we would select the CX-90 over the 2025 Mazda CX-70 simply because folding down the third row makes the two SUVs practically identical.
Weidel on Wheels is featured regularly on www.tahoeskiworld.com. Auto writer Jeffrey Weidel can be reached at skiweidel@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffweidel.
