By Veeno Dewan
The new 2025 Mazda CX-70 is not really new, it is based on the stellar Mazda CX-90 SUV but without the third row of seats. Still, it is as luxurious and refined as the CX-90, transporting five people in roomy comfort. There are only minor differences. as well as the deleted third seats and slightly different grille wheels and bumpers, plus blacked-out exterior trim. For 2025 adds features including Amazon Alexa integration, and an underfloor storage compartment in the cargo area. It is a handsome, sporty vehicle with smooth unpolarizing lines.
The CX-70 is available with the standard e-Skyactiv G 3.3L turbo engine with 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The electrified powertrain options include two versions of the MAZDA e-Skyactiv G 3.3L inline-six turbo with 48-volt M-Hybrid Boost, and e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain. All three choices are joined to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. Towing is a maximum capacity of 5,000 lbs when suitably equipped. There is also a high r-output e-Skyactiv G 3.3L turbo engine producing an impressive 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. The PHEV CX-70 as tested has a 2.5L e-Skyactiv PHEV engine teamed with a 17.8 kWh battery with an electric driving range of around 42km before the gasoline engine kicks in. The charge time to 80% for the on-board battery is a quick 1.3 hours with level 2 charger and slower 6.4 hours with level 1 charger.
Pricing for CX -70 starts at $49,750 for the GS-L, $54,350 for the GT and $58,300 for the GT-P and tops out at $62,300 for the Signature. PHEV pricing starts at $58,750 for the PHEV GS-L, with the PHEV GT as tested coming in at $63,350.
The CX-70 comes well equipped as standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Mazda’s latest operating system, but no touch screen, there’s a control knob and a hard button on the center console that operate the display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities are standard, and there is also the option for Amazon Alexa connectivity integration. A 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a head-up display are both optional. Premium trims and above come with a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, quilted Nappa leather upholstery and leather-wrapped steering wheel, plus suede trim on the dash. Options include the high line Signature version as tested with the 12.3-inch digital gauge display with a head-up Active Driver Display, Mazda Connect central infotainment display with touch control and other extras. We tested the Plug In Hybrid (PHEV) GT version finished in very attractive Melting Copper paint with black Nappa leather interior. Fit for GT version adds. Sunshine, tilt up ventilation and one touch open sunroof. Power black heated door mirrors. Body coloured door handles. Body coloured roof spoiler. Signature wing grille surround with blood finish. Black honeycomb front grill inserts. Roof rails in satin Chrome. And more. Interior wise the GT updates feature; A wireless phone charger ( Qi), wireless Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. Amazon Alexa, 12 speaker premium Bose sound system with Bose Centre point 2 surround technology. A navigation system is also standard. Along with master online navigation and Sirius XM Radio.
The CX-70 interior is rich in appearance and quality of materials and offers a sharp highly effective look combining sport and comfort. High points include a roomy interior, features laden technology, excellent safety Features and a high -quality cabin and comfort area for six-footers both front and back. The trunk on the CX-70 has 1,131 litres behind the second row and 2,147 litres when the second row is folded flat. There is s another 30 litres of hidden storage under the floor where the third row of seats on the CX-90 Would have been.
On the road, the CX-70 performs well with decent acceleration and good handling. I found no real vices in the driving experience. Acceleration is fats, the pace and overtaking quick and the ride serene and hushed. In terms of fuel economy. CX70 pH EV delivers. 9.9/100km – City, 8.7/100km highway and 9.4/100/km combined. Also impressive is the gas and electric powertrain combined offers 789 km of driving range and an all-electric combined economy figure of 4.2LE/100km.
To sum up the CX-70 is a practical, capable, and comfortable SUV. The PHEV is good value for money with its better fuel consumption and ability to travel that 50 Kilometres using just electric power. The CX-70 is a great option if you like the CX-90, but only need five seats. Highly recommended as an all-round impressive family SUV.
2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV GT – Priced from: $63,350. plus, delivery and PDE. Price as tested – $65,845.
www.mazda.ca.
