2025 Mazda CX-70 First Drive: Luxury Without The Luxury Price Tag?

2025 Mazda CX-70 First Drive: Luxury Without the Luxury Price Tag?

Mazda has long been known for punching above its weight class, delivering vehicles that offer a premium feel and driving experience without the premium price. The new 2025 Mazda CX-70, a wide-bodied, two-row SUV positioned between the CX-50 and the CX-90, aims to continue that tradition. But in a market saturated with compelling SUVs, does the CX-70 truly deliver on its promise of "luxury without the luxury price?" After spending a day behind the wheel, we’re diving deep into its design, performance, technology, and overall value to help you decide if this is the right SUV for you.

The CX-70 Arrives: More Than Just a Shortened CX-90

At first glance, the CX-70 might seem like a CX-90 that’s simply lost a row of seats. And while there’s definitely shared DNA, Mazda has made deliberate efforts to differentiate the two. The most obvious difference is the shorter overall length and the absence of the third row, creating a more spacious and versatile cargo area. However, the changes go deeper than just seat configuration.

The CX-70 sports a unique front fascia with a redesigned grille and bolder lower bumper, giving it a more aggressive and sporty stance. The side profile is also slightly different, with a more pronounced character line that flows from the front fender to the rear taillights. These subtle tweaks contribute to a more dynamic and athletic appearance compared to its three-row sibling.

Interior Design: A Familiar Yet Elevated Experience

Stepping inside the CX-70, you’re greeted with a familiar Mazda aesthetic. The interior design is clean, elegant, and driver-focused, echoing the design language found in the CX-90. High-quality materials are used throughout, with soft-touch surfaces and meticulously crafted details that contribute to a genuinely upscale feel.

• Seating and Comfort: The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on longer drives. Leather upholstery is available in higher trim levels, adding to the luxurious ambiance. The front seats offer ample adjustability, ensuring a comfortable driving position for a wide range of body types. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom, making the CX-70 a comfortable option for families with teenagers or adults.



• Technology and Infotainment: Mazda’s infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use. The 12.3-inch center display is crisp and responsive, and the rotary dial controller provides a tactile and satisfying way to navigate the menus. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. A head-up display is also available, projecting essential information onto the windshield, helping the driver keep their eyes on the road.

• Cargo Space and Practicality: The CX-70’s two-row configuration translates to a significant increase in cargo space compared to the CX-50 and even offers comparable space to some three-row SUVs with the third row folded down. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more room, making it easy to haul larger items. Clever storage solutions throughout the cabin, such as door pockets and a center console bin, add to the overall practicality of the vehicle.

Performance and Handling: The Soul of a Mazda

Mazda has always prioritized the driving experience, and the CX-70 is no exception. It’s available with two powertrain options:

• 3.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Six: This engine, shared with the CX-90, is the star of the show. It delivers a smooth and refined power delivery, with ample torque available throughout the rev range. The engine produces 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque in its highest output configuration (available on higher trims with premium fuel). This translates to confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising.

• 2.5-Liter Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): For those seeking greater fuel efficiency, the CX-70 is also available as a plug-in hybrid. This system combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 17.8 kWh battery pack. The combined output is 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The PHEV offers a respectable all-electric range, allowing you to complete short commutes and errands without using any gasoline.

Both powertrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and responsive shifts. The CX-70 also features Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction in all weather conditions.

On the road, the CX-70 feels composed and agile. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. The steering is precise and responsive, giving the driver a good sense of connection to the road. The CX-70 is genuinely fun to drive, which is a rare quality in this segment.

Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy

Fuel efficiency is always a consideration for SUV buyers. The CX-70’s fuel economy varies depending on the powertrain and driving conditions.

• 3.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Six: EPA estimates for the turbocharged inline-six are around 24 mpg combined (23 city/28 highway). While not class-leading, these numbers are respectable for an SUV of this size and power.

• 2.5-Liter Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): The PHEV offers significantly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 56 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) and an all-electric range of around 26 miles. This makes it an excellent option for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Real-world fuel economy will vary depending on your driving habits and the type of driving you do. However, the CX-70’s fuel economy is generally competitive with other SUVs in its class.

Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Passengers

Mazda prioritizes safety, and the CX-70 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane.
• Lane Keep Assist: Gently steers the vehicle back into your lane if you start to drift.
• Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts you if there’s a vehicle in your blind spot.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns you of approaching vehicles when you’re backing up.
• Automatic Emergency Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision.

Higher trim levels offer additional safety features, such as a 360-degree camera system and traffic sign recognition.

Pricing and Value: Where the CX-70 Shines

The 2025 Mazda CX-70’s pricing is expected to start around $40,000, making it significantly more affordable than many of its luxury competitors. This is where the "luxury without the luxury price" promise really comes into play.

For the price, you get a stylish and well-equipped SUV with a premium interior, a powerful engine, and a host of advanced features. The CX-70 offers excellent value for money, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on quality or features.

Comparison: How Does the CX-70 Stack Up?

To understand the CX-70’s place in the market, it’s helpful to compare it to some of its key competitors:

• BMW X3/X4: The X3 and X4 offer a similar level of luxury and performance, but they come with a significantly higher price tag. The CX-70 provides a comparable driving experience at a more affordable price.

• Acura RDX: The RDX is another popular luxury SUV that offers a good balance of performance and features. The CX-70 arguably offers a more refined interior and a more engaging driving experience.

• Lexus NX: The NX is known for its luxurious interior and comfortable ride. The CX-70 offers a more sporty driving experience and a more spacious cargo area.

• Genesis GV70: The GV70 is a relatively new entrant to the luxury SUV market, but it’s quickly gaining popularity for its stylish design and advanced technology. The CX-70 offers a more established brand reputation and a more affordable price.

Real-World Data (Hypothetical Example):

Let’s imagine a scenario: A family of four with two teenagers is looking for a new SUV. They prioritize safety, comfort, and cargo space. They have a budget of around $45,000.

• Option 1: Base Model BMW X3: This would stretch their budget and potentially leave them with fewer features.

• Option 2: Well-Equipped Mazda CX-70: For their budget, they could get a CX-70 with leather seats, advanced safety features, and the powerful inline-six engine.

In this scenario, the CX-70 offers a compelling value proposition, providing the features and performance they need without breaking the bank.

Conclusion: A Compelling Choice for the Discerning Buyer

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is a compelling SUV that successfully delivers on its promise of "luxury without the luxury price." It offers a stylish design, a premium interior, a powerful engine, and a host of advanced features, all at a price that’s significantly more affordable than many of its luxury competitors.

While it may not have the prestige of a BMW or the brand recognition of a Lexus, the CX-70 offers a unique blend of value, performance, and style that makes it a standout choice in the crowded SUV market. If you’re looking for a luxurious and engaging SUV that won’t break the bank, the CX-70 is definitely worth considering. It’s a testament to Mazda’s commitment to delivering vehicles that punch above their weight class and provide a truly exceptional driving experience. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about enjoying the journey. And the CX-70 offers a journey worth taking.