In the vast and varied landscape of crossovers, where many models insist on offering a third row of seats, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 emerges as a refreshing alternative. Designed for those who appreciate a little more space and a touch of luxury without the unnecessary addition of extra seating.

A Stylish Evolution

Crossovers like the Mazda CX-70 are becoming rarer, especially as competitors like the Ford Edge age and the Hyundai Santa Fe adds more seats for the ever-increasing number of offspring. The CX-70, however, remains steadfast in offering a two-row experience that doesn’t skimp on style or substance. Building on the design success of the CX-90, the CX-70 brings a sophisticated aesthetic with its sleek lines and modern finishes.

In our previous encounter with the CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid, we noted its lack of opulence compared to the CX-90. But this time, Mazda has upped the ante with a stunning metallic cement gray exterior paired with a luxurious caramel interior, featuring a tasteful mix of suede and leather.

LIKES: Confident engine performance, ample space & cargo capacity, attractive interior & exterior combination

Mazda clearly intended the CX-70 to set a new standard. These days, “premium” is often used to dress up the mundane. And while the CX-50 might fit that bill, the CX-70 genuinely exudes class. It offers a hint of vintage luxury with fabric on the dashboard and door panels, tastefully accented by wood and a sliver of metal. Even the 12.3-inch infotainment screen is present without being a space invader. Our Premium Plus model featured sumptuous Nappa leather seats, ensuring top-notch passenger comfort.

The CX-70 is designed with passenger comfort in mind. The second-row seats, echoing the features of its CX-90 sibling, offer ample leg and headroom, along with the ability to slide and recline with the ability to enjoy their own climate control and heated seats. The trunk is equally impressive, boasting over five feet of space.

Commodious Performance

Mazda offers the CX-70 with three engine choices, two of which are turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-sixes with mild-hybrid assistance, generating between 280 and 340 horsepower depending on the model and a plug-in hybrid variant. Our test model featured the 340-horsepower 3.3T engine, which certainly didn’t disappoint. With a 0-60 time of approximately 6.5 seconds, this SUV is among the quicker options in its class, especially impressive given its nearly 5,000-pound weight. Both turbocharged engines come with Mazda’s M-Hybrid Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that optimizes efficiency and provides a smooth start/stop experience reminiscent of luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz.

DISLIKES: Mid-range turbo-lag, cabin rattles, transmission quirks with the start/stop system

Mazda has a knack for creating vehicles that feel connected to the road, and the CX-70 is no exception. While it doesn’t quite reach sports car territory, the engineering ensures a composed and confident drive. The firm steering is responsive, providing precise feedback, and the brakes are sensitive yet controlled. The inline-six engine also adds a pleasing auditory experience when accelerating.

That said, the CX-70 is not without its quirks. While the engine excels in performance, it struggles with mid-range turbo lag, particularly during highway overtakes. This delay, combined with a hesitant transmission, can make for some frustrating moments with fellow drivers as they reacted with a bit of road rage, sorry. Additionally, the mild-hybrid system occasionally disengages the engine at high speeds, resulting in an awkward re-engagement sensation.

Quibbling

Despite its strengths, the CX-70 had one major annoyance. The turbo lag and transmission glitches are notable, but the most persistent issue was the rattling sounds emanating from various parts of the cabin, including the sunroof and rearview mirror housing. These unwelcome noises required us to crank up the music to maintain our sanity.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offers a compelling blend of style, space, and performance. It’s a vehicle that caters to those seeking a sophisticated driving experience without sacrificing practicality. While it may not be perfect, with some minor annoyances like the turbo lag and cabin rattles, the overall package is still a win for those who value comfort and a touch of sportiness in their daily drive.

2025 Mazda CX-70 3.3t Premium Plus

Staring Price: $54,500
As-Tested: $57,775

Performance:

Engine: 3.3-liter Turbocharged Inline E-SKYACTIV G Six-Cylinder with Mild-Hybrid Assist
Horsepower/Torque: 340-HP / 369lbs-ft
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive
EPA MPG: 23-city / 28-highway / 25-combined
As-Tested MPG: 25.5-MPG Combined (472-mile test)