Category: Mazda

The 2026 Mazda CX-70 returns this year with no major changes—and that’s not a bad thing. Mazda already hit a sweet spot with the CX-70: a two-row SUV that blends luxury-lite design, punchy powertrains, and some of the best handling in the segment. If you want something that feels more engaging than a Hyundai Santa Fe but far more attainable than a BMW X5, this is the SUV that threads the needle. Mazda’s goal was simple: offer a five-passenger vehicle with real performance cred, upscale materials, and everyday usability without the bulk of a third row. In practice, the CX-70 is one of the most balanced, satisfying midsize SUVs you can buy.

The CX-70 looks the part of a premium SUV without screaming for attention. Its long hood, rear-drive proportions, and subtle body sculpture give it more presence than many of its rivals. Wheel arch finishes help you spot which powertrain you’re looking at: black cladding on mild-hybrid models, painted flares on the PHEV. The S trims get 21-inch wheels, adaptive front lighting, dark exterior accents, and a panoramic roof that brings some visual drama. Mazda doesn’t chase gimmicks here; the CX-70 has that understated, confident design language typically reserved for pricier German brands.

Slide inside and the premium vibe gets clearer. The CX-70 shares its architecture with the CX-90, so you get rich materials, a clean layout, padded touch points, and a cabin that feels genuinely upscale. Nappa leather, quilted patterns, upgraded lighting, and memory seating arrive on upper trims, while the second-row seats recline for long-trip comfort. Cargo room is one of its secret strengths: 29.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 58.6 cubes with it folded, complete with an under-floor storage compartment that hides bags or gear from plain sight. It’s genuinely more useful than some rivals despite being a two-row SUV.

Under the hood, Mazda gives buyers three high-quality choices. The standard 3.3-liter inline-six mild hybrid delivers 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, smooth power, and impressive real-world efficiency. Step up to the 340-horsepower “S” version of the same engine and the CX-70 becomes legitimately quick, with torque-rich passing power and the kind of throttle response you don’t usually find in this class. All models use an eight-speed automatic and standard AWD. The plug-in hybrid combines a 2.5-liter engine with a 100-kW motor for 325 hp, 369 lb-ft, and about 25 miles of electric driving—more than enough for errands or short commutes.

What sets the CX-70 apart, however, is how it drives. Mazda tuned this SUV with unusually sharp steering, predictable body control, and a chassis that feels eager in corners. It reacts quickly but never harshly, and the ride remains calm over broken pavement. It’s the sporty option in a class dominated by softer, slower responses, yet it never feels punishing. The PHEV’s blend of electric and gas power adds instant torque, making it feel stronger than its four-cylinder layout suggests. Regenerative braking comes in two levels—tunable enough that newcomers won’t find it abrupt.

Fuel economy remains strong for the category. The standard mild-hybrid returns around 24/28 mpg city/highway, while the more powerful S barely changes those numbers at 23/28. The PHEV leads the lineup with 56 MPGe and 25 miles of EV-only capability. These figures put Mazda right alongside or slightly ahead of some luxury rivals.

Tech usability remains the CX-70’s most polarizing point. The 12.3-inch center display is sharp, but it’s not a touchscreen—Mazda sticks with a rotary dial and shortcut buttons. Some drivers love the precision, others find it dated. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, the wireless charger works reliably, and full Amazon Alexa integration is new to Mazda, allowing voice control for navigation, media, and even smart home devices. The Bose 12-speaker system on Premium trims is strong, but Mazda’s infotainment still trails competitors like BMW’s large touchscreen setup.

Safety remains comprehensive across the lineup. Standard gear includes blind-spot monitoring, radar cruise with stop-and-go, lane-keep assist, emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and an unresponsive-driver support system. Premium Plus trims add surround-view cameras, front cross-traffic alert, and additional sensing tech. The CX-70 hasn’t been crash-tested as of this writing, but its sibling CX-90 earned top marks—an encouraging sign given their nearly identical structures.

Compared to rivals, the 2026 CX-70 plays an interesting role. It drives better than the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee. It undercuts the BMW X5 and Acura MDX on price while offering legitimately sporty handling. The Genesis GV80 is more luxurious, but Mazda’s driving dynamics make it feel special in a different way. This is the SUV for people who want something premium without the premium cost, and who care as much about the drive as the look.

The S Premium trim remains the best value in the lineup, offering the high-output inline-six, premium features, and strong towing capability at a fair price. Buyers wanting a greener angle or quieter urban operation should consider the PHEV Premium, which balances performance and efficiency well.

As a complete package, the 2026 Mazda CX-70 sticks to Mazda’s formula: upscale feel, engaging performance, excellent steering, and a cabin that makes daily life easy. It isn’t the flashiest, and the infotainment quirks may divide some shoppers, but for those who want a driver-focused SUV with premium touches and strong value, the CX-70 belongs on the short list.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is a two-row, five-passenger SUV positioned between the smaller CX-50 and the larger three-row CX-90 in Mazda’s lineup. The key distinction from the CX-90 is the CX-70’s lack of a third row, enhancing cargo efficiency. Despite their similarity, Mazda markets the CX-70 as a separate model.

Mechanically identical to the CX-90, the CX-70 offers three powertrains: two turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engines with mild hybrid systems and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. The PHEV provides about 25 miles of electric-only range. Aesthetic differences include black wheel arch flares for hybrids and body-colored flares for the PHEV. The CX-70’s weight is nearly the same as the CX-90, ensuring similar ride and handling.

The CX-70’s primary advantage is its expanded cargo space due to the absence of a third row. This model features power-folding rear seats and an increased width towards the rear, offering more storage, including a new sub-trunk area.

The CX-70 competes with both luxury SUVs like the BMW X5, Acura MDX, and Genesis GV80, as well as midsize models like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Known for its excellent handling, the CX-70 outperforms the Hyundai and Jeep in this regard.

### Positives
– Well-crafted interior
– Choice of gas or PHEV powertrains
– Smart storage features in the cargo area

### Considerations
– No fully electric model
– Minimal off-road capability
– Essentially a two-row CX-90

### Verdict
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offers sporty driving dynamics and enhanced cargo space, positioning itself as a practical yet stylish option in Mazda’s SUV lineup.

### What’s New for 2025
The CX-70 is a new model for 2025, expanding Mazda’s midsize SUV offerings.

### Trims and Pricing
– **Preferred**: $41,900; features 280-hp turbo engine, 19-inch wheels, leather seats, and advanced safety tech.
– **Premium**: $47,355; adds 5,000-pound towing capacity, 12.3-inch driver display, Bose audio, and more.
– **Premium Plus**: $50,355; includes surround-view camera, Nappa leather, and more luxury features.
– **S Premium**: $53,905; 340-hp turbo engine, 21-inch wheels, and panoramic sunroof.
– **S Premium Plus**: $57,405; adds windshield de-icer, quilted leather, and two-tone steering wheel.
– **Plug-In Hybrid Premium**: $55,855; 322-hp PHEV powertrain, 25 miles electric range, and enhanced driving modes.
– **Plug-In Hybrid Premium Plus**: $58,905; includes additional luxury features like ventilated seats and surround-view camera.

### Engine and Performance
The standard 3.3-liter inline-six engine comes in two power levels: 280 hp and 340 hp. Both offer excellent handling and responsive steering. The PHEV version pairs a 2.5-liter engine with a 100-kW electric motor, providing 325 hp and 25 miles of electric range.

### Fuel Economy and Range
– **Standard Turbo**: 24 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
– **Turbo S**: 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
– **PHEV**: 56 MPGe with 25 miles electric range

### Interior
The CX-70 shares its high-quality interior with the CX-90, featuring comfortable seating, premium materials, and ample cargo space. It offers 29.9 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second row, expandable to 58.6 cubic feet.

### Infotainment and Connectivity
Standard 12.3-inch display, not touchscreen; operated via knob and buttons. Features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Some may find the system less intuitive compared to competitors.

### Safety
While not yet tested (as of this original posting), it likely mirrors the CX-90’s high safety ratings. Standard features include smart brake support, blind-spot monitoring, radar cruise control, and more.

### Mazda CX-70 vs. the Competition
The CX-70 offers a blend of sporty handling and practical cargo space. It competes well with luxury SUVs like the BMW X5 and Acura MDX, offering a balance of performance and value, while also standing out among midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Introduced last year, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 quickly stands out in the compact crossover market. Mazda is repositioning itself as a premium brand, and the CX-50 embodies this shift with its impressive design, well-appointed interior, and robust performance. It’s essential to distinguish the CX-50 from Mazda’s best-selling model, the CX-5, as they are similar in size and nomenclature but have distinct features. The CX-50, with standard all-wheel drive, mild off-road capabilities, and a higher price, caters to a more rugged audience.

Inside, the CX-50 exudes luxury with its sleek design and premium materials. However, its infotainment system, while feature-rich, isn’t as user-friendly as some competitors’. Mazda offers the CX-50 in eight trim levels, providing various engine options. The base engine offers adequate power, but the turbocharged engine in higher trims delivers an impressive 256 horsepower, making the CX-50 one of the top performers in its class, achieving 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds.

While the CX-50 boasts respectable fuel economy, some rivals, such as the Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson, and Toyota RAV4, outperform it in this regard. What sets the CX-50 apart is its excellent handling and driver engagement, offering a unique driving experience in the small crossover segment.

For 2024, Mazda has made minor suspension and steering adjustments to improve handling, as the CX-50 was completely redesigned the previous year. The lineup primarily features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with either 187 or 256 horsepower, depending on the trim. The turbocharged models provide a more engaging driving experience with brisk acceleration and responsive steering.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the base CX-50 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the turbo models return slightly lower figures at 23/29 mpg city/highway.

Inside the CX-50, there’s ample headroom and legroom for five adults across two rows of seats. Even the base models offer premium materials, making the cabin feel upscale. The CX-50 also boasts minimal road and wind noise, providing a comfortable ride on highways. Cargo space is generous, with 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

The infotainment system includes a 10.25-inch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and two front USB ports. However, it lacks full touchscreen functionality, which might be a drawback for some users. The higher trims feature a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system and navigation.

In a highly competitive segment, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 stands out by combining SUV versatility with a luxurious interior and Mazda’s signature responsive handling. It also offers mild off-road capabilities. While it delivers a smooth ride and excellent handling, its infotainment system’s limited touchscreen functionality and relatively high starting price may be factors to consider. Competitors like the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 offer hybrid options for improved fuel economy, while the Nissan Rogue comes at a more affordable price point. The CX-50 appeals to those seeking a small SUV that prioritizes driving enjoyment and premium features.

Mazda North American Operations has announced pricing and packaging details for the 2024 Mazda CX-30. The 2024 CX-30 offers several new packaging options, including the introduction of the 2.5 Carbon Turbo model. It also includes technological upgrades, such as USB-C inputs and a 10.25-inch center display with touchscreen Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality. Additionally, Mazda is enhancing safety features, with Rear Seat Alert now standard across all 2024 CX-30 models.

The CX-30 lineup includes various trim levels, from the standard 2.5 S to the premium 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. Each trim offers unique features and packages to cater to different customer preferences. The top-level CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus includes advanced driver assistance technologies like a 360° View Monitor and Cruising and Traffic Support.

Furthermore, the CX-30 2.5 Turbo models offer increased horsepower and torque, providing a dynamic driving experience. The Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine produces either 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque or 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, depending on the fuel grade used. These models come with a 10.25-inch center display, wireless phone charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Mazda’s 2024 CX-30 lineup aims to provide consumers with a range of options, from efficient daily drivers to high-performance models with advanced technology and safety features.

The Mazda CX-5 is making a surprising comeback in 2024, retaining its 2017 redesign. Despite the introduction of the CX-50 last year, which shares similarities in size and purpose, the CX-5 remains Mazda’s top-selling model. While the CX-50 leans more towards performance and comes at a slightly higher price point, the CX-5’s sleek exterior, near-luxury interior, sporty handling, and potent turbocharged engine still make it an appealing choice.

However, it falls behind competitors in terms of practicality, with limited cargo space and less fuel efficiency. Rivals like the Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, and Toyota RAV4 offer more cargo capacity and fuel-efficient hybrid options.

Under the hood, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 offers two engine options: a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a turbocharged version. While rival models may have more powerful base engines, the CX-5 provides sufficient power with its base engine and becomes one of the liveliest and most enjoyable crossovers on the market with the turbocharged engine.

In terms of fuel economy, the CX-5 returns 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the base engine, dropping to 22/27 mpg city/highway with the turbo. Some rivals offer all-wheel-drive hybrid variants with better fuel economy, but the CX-5 lacks a hybrid version.

Inside, the CX-5 offers a comfortable and spacious cabin for four passengers, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. However, its cargo area is relatively small, and the infotainment system has a learning curve.

In conclusion, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 stands out for its stylish design, enjoyable driving experience, and comfortable interior. However, it lags behind competitors in terms of cargo space and fuel efficiency. Mazda has made some minor changes for 2024, discontinuing the base 2.5 S trim and introducing a new Carbon Turbo trim while slightly improving fuel efficiency.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is a new three-row SUV designed for families, offering seating configurations for six, seven, or eight passengers. It boasts an upscale interior with premium materials and a sleek design, providing a luxury car-like experience. The CX-90 is available with two turbocharged gas engines and a plug-in hybrid, all offering powerful and engaging performance. It stands out with sporty handling and standard all-wheel drive for added traction in various conditions. The infotainment system features large screens but relies on a rotary dial controller rather than a touchscreen. The SUV offers 11 trim levels, a spacious interior with comfortable seating, and competitive cargo space. It is estimated to achieve good fuel economy, and towing capacity varies by trim level. However, the premium features of the CX-90 come with a higher price point.