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New 2025 Mazda CX-70 Revealed

Mazda has recently introduced the 2025 CX-70, a new mid-size SUV. This model is a more compact version of the larger CX-90, offering seating for five, unlike the seven-seater CX-90. The CX-70 shares several features with the CX-90, including its platform, powertrains, and much of the body design. This similarity suggests that those who appreciate the CX-90’s design and performance are likely to find the CX-70 appealing as well.

Despite these similarities, the CX-70 does have some distinct characteristics. It boasts a design that leans towards a sportier look. This is evident in its use of gloss black elements as opposed to the CX-90’s chrome details. The CX-70 features a black mesh grille and a front bumper with larger simulated grilles, contributing to its sporty aesthetic. The rear bumper is redesigned, incorporating faux vents, and the car includes dark finishes on the mirror caps, door handles, and roof rails. The optional 21-inch wheels enhance this sporty look with gloss black pockets and machined faces.

The front end of the CX-70 presents a more aggressive appearance compared to the CX-90. It contrasts with the CX-90’s more subdued grille design. However, the CX-70’s rounded roofline and triangular rear quarter windows create a slight mismatch with its otherwise streamlined bodywork. The rear hatch design, reminiscent of 1990s models, is somewhat rounded, although the updated bumper adds a bit of sharpness to the overall look.

Inside, the CX-70 closely resembles the CX-90, particularly until one notices the absence of a third row of seats. The CX-70 features an option for red leather with a black accent stripe, a unique offering in the interior, which is predominantly black with red stitching on the door panels and steering wheel. The gray plastic trim, imitating carbon fiber, slightly detracts from the high-quality materials used elsewhere in the cabin. It would be beneficial if Mazda offered the CX-90’s more upscale interior options, like the “kakenui” dashboard stitching and genuine wood trim, for the CX-70 as well.

In terms of technology, the CX-70 aligns closely with the CX-90 but stands out as the first Mazda model to integrate Amazon Alexa into its infotainment system. This feature allows voice control over various functions, such as climate settings and media, and can connect with compatible devices at home. Additionally, the CX-70 includes a safety feature known as Unresponsive Driver Support. This system, part of the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering functionality, can bring the car to a gradual stop and activate hazard lights if the driver becomes unresponsive, such as during a medical emergency.

The powertrains for the CX-70 are identical to those of the CX-90. These include a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, available in a base version with 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, and a high-output version offering 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. There’s also a plug-in hybrid option, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a 17.8-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, and a 68-kilowatt electric motor to produce 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

All versions of the CX-70 come with rear-biased all-wheel drive. The towing capacities are substantial, with the six-cylinder models capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds and the hybrid model up to 3,500 pounds. Although final specifications haven’t been released, the CX-70 is expected to be lighter than the CX-90, potentially leading to better efficiency. The plug-in hybrid model is anticipated to offer an electric-only range of about 30 miles, which would be a convenient feature for short commutes.

Despite sharing the same 122.8-inch wheelbase as the CX-90, the CX-70 is slightly shorter overall, with the length difference primarily due to the rear overhang. This shorter length, combined with the absence of a third-row seat, results in a spacious cargo area, offering ample room for storage or even for an adult to comfortably lie down. This spaciousness sparks ideas of long road trips, with the vehicle serving as a convenient rest space at various stops.

Mazda has not yet disclosed the pricing for the CX-70, but it is expected to be somewhat lower than the CX-90, which starts at $40,970 for the standard model and $51,320 for the plug-in hybrid version. The base price for the CX-70 might be around $38,000, increasing to approximately $57,000 for a fully equipped model. In comparison, the Honda Passport starts at $43,295, and its highest trim, the Black Edition, is priced at $49,365.