Mazda debuts worthy, pricey SUV

Like pop singers and celebrity divorces, the announcement of another sport utility vehicle arrives nearly daily. Mazda further joined the onslaught with the debut of its mid-sized 2025 CX-70, its third SUV.

Positioned between the smaller CX-50 and the three-row CX-90, the CX-70 showcases Mazda’s recent emphasis on attractive exteriors matched with near-luxury interiors.

The CX-70 is primarily its larger stablemate minus a third row. It also has a lower front bumper and its trim equipment is blacked out in gloss or matte finishes.

Two powertrains with three horsepower variations are available. The choices: the reviewed turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six, standard with 280 horsepower engine, a high-performance version with 340 horsepower, and the highest-priced plug-in hybrid. It has an electric motor and 14.8-kWh battery pack shared with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder totaling 323 horsepower. Gas mileage averages are 24 miles per gallon in city driving, 28 mpg on the highway on the non-hybrid choices.

With the base Turbo engine, three trim levels are available: Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus. The higher-horse Turbo S and the PHEV skip the Preferred, offering just Premium and Premium Plus. Both powertrains are mate to an eight-speed automatic transmission. All CX-70s, including the PHEV, employ fully mechanical all-wheel drive.

The seating capacity is five, all of whom have ample legroom and headroom. Mazda details the CX-70 has 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind its back seat. With the back seat down, the CX-70 provides 75.3 cu-ft of volume. The storage area, of course, is smaller than the CX-90. As a supplement, Mazda placed storage well underneath the cargo floor. It’s innovative but not easily accessible since it’s positioned directly behind the back seat.

The new Mazda has substantial competition, including the Cadillac CTS, Chevrolet Blazer, Honda Passport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Lexus GS, Lincoln, Nautilus, Nissan Murano, Subaru Outback and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The Mazda CX-70 matches rivals in style and performance but doesn’t have the competition’s niche outdoors and off-road attributes.

Against stalwart and new rivals, Mazda fares well as a daily driver. It handles sharply and has a straightforward overall driving persona and handsome appearances inside and outside. Several two-tone interior combinations provide an upscale look.

Don’t expect off-road heroics; it’s not a strong Mazda trait. Don’t expect a sporty feel. The CX-70 isn’t sluggish; its 0-to-60 miles per hour rating is 6.2 seconds, an adequate performance in most situations. But it’s not reminiscent of Mazda’s signature MX-5, the top-selling sports car in history.

In its recent effort to showcase better-designed, better-equipped and betting-looking vehicles, Mazda has matched many competitors with a healthy standard features list.

A 12.3-inch infotainment display, AM/FM stereo with a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, keyless ignition, power tilt and telescopic steering wheel with cruise and audio controls highlights. Electric power steering, front and rear parking sensors, wireless charging and adaptive cruise control are also in the standard mix.

Comfort and cruise standard features include a leather and heated steering wheel, three-zone climate control and dual illuminating vanity mirrors.

What the new Mazda also has are hefty new prices, with MSRP starting points ranging from $40,445 to $57,450. While an impressive debut, Mazda may not be able to find a substantially increased segment of the SUV marketplace.

Its top-line offering, one of seven Mazda CX-70s available, surpasses $60,000. For new SUV buyers, the Mazda is a wise choice. And it’s likewise a strong choice for veteran mid-sized SUV buyers. But its high-end pricing is unlikely to persuade brand switching.

James Raia, a syndicated automotive columnist in Sacramento, also writes about sports, lifestyle and travel topics. Email: james@jamesraia.com