The Mazda CX70 AWD Review

With the 2025 Mazda CX70, it’s all new except for the profile. What’s that, you say? What we are trying to say is the new CX70 is all new except for the fact it takes up the same footprint as the CX90 three-row SUV. It’s essentially a two-row version of the CX90, which has been getting rave reviews across America. At Napleton News, we’ve been a fan of the CX90 for a while. Strangely, this makes us even more of one! (Does everyone really need a third row?)

What’s the hubbub with the new Mazda CX70?

The new CX70 is literally the CX90 without the third row. Recently introduced a couple of years ago, the CX series represents the Mazda brand’s foray into the luxury segment. Here it will compete with Volkswagen’s Atlas, Audi’s Q5 and even the Infiniti QX60.

It is powered by a 280-horsepower turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. Since our sampler is the high-zoot 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus, which means it’s powered by the same engine that has been tuned to 340-horsepower with 369 lb-ft of torque on tap. Inline engines are typically much smoother than their V-configured brethren allowing for smoother efficiency and better handling. Both engines utilize 8-speed automatic transmissions sending the torque to all four wheels. There is a distinct rear-wheel bias which aids in overall handling thanks to its built-in torque vectoring.

Depending on how you configure it, your CX70 can tow from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds.

For those interested in taking a more economical and environmental route, there is the CX70 PHEV with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that teams up with a 68-kilowatt electric motor. Power output is 323-horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. But the best part of this is it can go up to 28 miles on electricity alone.

Looks matter, even with the CX70.

As has been mentioned before, if you like the CX90, you will absolutely love the Mazda CX70! It’s a fresh, luxurious look that shows as class above thanks to good color choices and stylish lines. Toss in great workmanship and you have a winning combination that should attract more new buyers to the brand.

How about inside the CX70?

The interior of the new CX70 offers plenty of high-end features that belong in cars costing twice as much. But then again, there is the shortcoming of the multimedia controller on the center console. It’s rudimentary at best and time for a redesign. Alcantara headliners and dashboard appliques add extra style heft to the vehicle. It’s just the thing for those who have tired of Lexus and other cars.

Behind the wheel of the Mazda CX70

The Mazda CX70 AWD manages to get out of its own way with a pronounced scoot. That’s the technical way of saying this thing moves. Power comes on gradually in the lower rev-range but when you need to get past someone or something in a hurry, step on it for an instant drop in the gearing. The result is a straight-six that kicks it in a big way.

Handling is Mazda-stellar meaning that if you liked the way the Mazda 3, Mazda 6 and even the MX-5 handles, you will definitely appreciate how the CX70 manages to kick it, too. It grips surprisingly well while negotiating various turns. That’s partially because of the AWD powertrain and the torque vectoring ability that “shortens” the turn.

Imagine an SUV that handles like a sports car. That’s what you get with the CX70.

2025 Mazda CX70 Specifications