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2025 Mazda CX-70

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2026 model shown
2.47C+GPA / 4.0
Overall GPA
Reliability
1.52D
Safety
3.95A+
EfficiencyGas
1.88C-
25 MPG combined · 463 mi range · $2,450/yr energy
Comfort
1.58D
Value
2.79B-
Ownership Cost
1.75C-
Technology
2.97B-
Driving Experience
3.03B

The verdict

A mixed-report mid-size suv, strong on safety and held back by reliability.

Overall 2.47 (C+) across 10 graded subjects. Its strongest is safety at 3.95 (A+), its weakest reliability & quality at 1.52 (D). 8 of 10 subjects grade at C− or better.

Jump to scores

Strengths

  • Safety
  • Driving Experience
  • Technology & Infotainment

What holds it back

  • Reliability & Quality
  • Space & Comfort
  • Performance & Powertrain

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Production history

2025–present · 2 years · 1 generations
Gen 12025–now2025In production2026 — graded2025 — gradedProduction began 2025

How it's evolved

2 scored model years · 2025–2026

0255075100202520262025 · Overall: 662026 · Overall: 65 (−1 vs 2025)

Subject scores by year

Hover or tap a score to see what moved it versus the year before. A corner mark flags a big swing.

YearPerformanceEfficiencySafetySpaceCostReliabilityTechUse-caseDrivingValue
2026
2025

Compare two years

vs
Performance55
54-1
Efficiency58
62+5
Safety87
81-6
Space53
540
Cost56
44-12
Reliability53
58+5
Tech73
70-4
Use-case68
670
Driving74
76+1
Value71
68-3

Best fit & conditions

FamilyA-81/100
Winter / inclementB+78/100
AdventureB+77/100
CommuterC61/100
Work / TowD52/100

Higher scores mean a better fit for that use case. Learn more about use-case fit →

Academic Probation · NHTSA safety recalls

4 for the 2025 · 4 across 2025–2026 · as of Oct 19, 2026
  • Sep 2, 2025Electrical system: body control module: software · Electrical system: instrument panel: fuel gauge: fuel level float/sensor/sending unitThe fuel gauge in the instrument cluster may display an inaccurate fuel reading.MY 2025

    Defect

    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEV). The fuel gauge in the instrument cluster may display an inaccurate fuel reading.

    Risk

    An inaccurate fuel gauge may result in the vehicle unexpectedly running out of fuel and stalling, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Dealers will update the body control module (BCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 24, 2025. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. The manufacturer's number for this recall is 78251. The information in your report suggests that Mazda may have been aware of this issue more than five business days before filing a report with NHTSA. Please be reminded that under Federal law, this agency is to be notified of all safety defect and/or noncompliance decisions within five business days. 49 CFR 573.6 Significant civil penalties can be assessed for this violation.

    NHTSA campaign 25V568000 ↗Manufacturer no. 7825I104,854 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 24, 2025Filed by Mazda North American OperationsFiled as CX-70
  • Oct 31, 2024Electrical system: propulsion system: inverter · Electrical system: softwareImproper inverter software may cause the malfunction indicator lights to illuminate, and a loss of drive power may occur while in electric vehicle (EV) mode.MY 2025

    Defect

    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Improper inverter software may cause the malfunction indicator lights to illuminate, and a loss of drive power may occur while in electric vehicle (EV) mode.

    Risk

    Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Dealers will install improved inverter software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 7024J.

    NHTSA campaign 24V817000 ↗Manufacturer no. 7024J14,902 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 19, 2024Filed by Mazda North American OperationsFiled as CX-70
  • Oct 31, 2024Engine and engine cooling: engine: engine control module (ecu/ecm) · Power train: automatic transmission: control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)The powertrain control module (PCM) and engine control modules (ECM) software may cause malfunction indicator lights to illuminate and a loss of drive power.MY 2025

    Defect

    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 vehicles. The powertrain control module (PCM) and engine control modules (ECM) software may cause malfunction indicator lights to illuminate and a loss of drive power.

    Risk

    Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Dealers will reprogram the PCM and ECM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 7024J.

    NHTSA campaign 24V815000 ↗Manufacturer no. 7024J31,488 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 19, 2024Filed by Mazda North American OperationsFiled as CX-70
  • Oct 31, 2024Electrical system: software · Structure: interior panels: dashboardDuring vehicle startup, the defroster, seat belt warning, 360° view monitor functions, and the PHEV high-voltage battery cooling system may not function properly.MY 2025

    Defect

    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 vehicles equipped with a Dash Electrical Supply Unit (ESU). During vehicle startup, the defroster, seat belt warning, 360° view monitor functions, and the PHEV high-voltage battery cooling system may not function properly.

    Risk

    An ESU that does not function properly, increases the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Dealers will reprogram the Dash ESU with improved software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 18, 2024. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 7124J.

    NHTSA campaign 24V814000 ↗Manufacturer no. 7124J80,915 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 18, 2024Filed by Mazda North American OperationsFiled as CX-70

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall database, model years 2025–2026. Recalls are listed by model year as the manufacturer filed them; whether a specific car is affected depends on its VIN — check a VIN at nhtsa.gov ↗. NHTSA model names matched to this page: CX-70.

Detailed scoring by subject

1Performance & PowertrainOne of the CX-70's weakest categories.1.72C-
Horsepower
280 hp (3.3 Turbo Preferred); up to 340 hp (3.3 Turbo S)
33/100
#15 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The regular-fuel 3.3 Turbo Preferred is the representative volume trim. Mazda also offered a higher-output Turbo S and a 323-hp PHEV for this debut model year.

Torque
332 lb-ft (3.3 Turbo Preferred); up to 369 lb-ft (Turbo S/PHEV)
55/100
#5 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The volume 3.3 Turbo delivers its 332 lb-ft peak at a low 2,000 rpm, giving this large SUV useful low-speed thrust.

0–60 mph time
7.1 s (3.3 Turbo Preferred); about 6.2–6.5 s for Turbo S
40/100
#12 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The 280-hp Preferred is adequately quick rather than sporty; instrumented testing largely covered the stronger Turbo S, so the volume-trim figure relies on KBB's trim-specific listing.

Powertrain refinement68
#8 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The turbo inline-six provides strong, polished power and an appealing sound, but reviewers note initial hesitation and more noise under hard acceleration than the premium positioning suggests.

Transmission behavior55
#24 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The eight-speed automatic is generally serviceable, but inconsistent response and delayed downshifts keep it near the middle of the segment rather than among the best conventional automatics.

Max towing capacity
5,000 lbs (3.3 Turbo Premium and above with Mazda towing accessories)
57/100
#5 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Properly equipped gas models reach 5,000 pounds, a useful mid-size-SUV rating; the Preferred itself lacks the Premium trim's Towing mode.

AWD/4WD availability85
#3 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Rear-biased i-Activ AWD is standard on every CX-70, supported by Sport and Off-Road modes plus hill-descent control; it lacks a true low range or locking differentials.

Off-road capability52
#9 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Standard AWD, an Off-Road mode, hill-descent control, and 8.0–8.1 inches of clearance support light trail use. Road tires, modest angles, and no dedicated rugged trim, skid-plate package, locker, or low range limit harder use.

Powertrain lineup breadth88
#3 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A broad launch lineup offered two turbo inline-six outputs plus a distinct plug-in hybrid, all with AWD. That gives shoppers regular-fuel value, higher gas performance, or electric commuting capability.

2Efficiency & RangeMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.88C-
3SafetyThe CX-70's best-graded category.3.95A+
NHTSA overall rating
5 stars overall
100/100
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The gas-powered 2025 CX-70 AWD earned NHTSA's maximum five-star overall vehicle score in its first model year.

IIHS awards & crashworthiness98
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The 2025 CX-70 is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and earns Good ratings in the small-overlap front, updated moderate-overlap front, and updated side tests. The gas CX-70's updated moderate-overlap result comes from an actual 3.3 Turbo Preferred test and includes Good rear-passenger protection.

Standard ADAS suite breadth92
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Every gas CX-70 includes the five core systems: automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise with stop-and-go, lane-departure prevention, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The volume 3.3 Turbo S Premium adds a notably broader set including lane centering, active blind-spot intervention, junction AEB, and rear automatic braking.

Automatic emergency braking performance88
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

IIHS gives the standard system a Good pedestrian rating with strong nighttime performance, but its newer vehicle-to-vehicle 2.0 result is only Acceptable because it did not fully avoid the 43-mph passenger-car target tests.

Blind-spot & cross-traffic coverage94
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard throughout the lineup, while the volume Turbo S Premium adds steering-based Blind Spot Assist, front cross-traffic alert, rear automatic braking with pedestrian detection, and Vehicle Exit Warning. This is exceptionally broad coverage, although it is not marketed as trailer-aware blind-spot monitoring.

Lane keeping & centering88
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Standard lane-departure prevention is supplemented on the volume Turbo S Premium by Cruising & Traffic Support lane centering. Review testing describes the centering as smooth and dependable through curves, with clear disengagement warnings rather than unexplained dropouts.

Adaptive cruise & highway assist85
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Full-speed Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go is standard, and the volume Turbo S Premium integrates it with Cruising & Traffic Support lane centering. Reviewers found it smooth and consistent in traffic, though occasional late braking approaching a complete stop keeps it below the best systems.

Hands-free driving availability0
#24 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The 2025 CX-70 offers no hands-free highway-driving system; Cruising & Traffic Support is a hands-on assistance feature.

Headlight performance92
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The volume Turbo S Premium's curve-adaptive LED projector headlights earn an IIHS Good rating and include high-beam assist. Lower 3.3 Turbo Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus trims use non-adaptive projectors rated Acceptable, so performance is not uniform across the gas range.

Outward visibility76
#7 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Natural forward visibility is generally workable, but the long, wide body and rear-quarter structure create meaningful blind zones. The volume Turbo S Premium compensates effectively with front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree monitor with See-Through View, and a rear camera with dynamic guidelines.

Child-seat (LATCH) usability93
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

IIHS awards the rare Good+ LATCH ease rating, and hands-on car-seat testing found covered lower anchors and clearly marked tethers easy to access. Two seats install very easily and three nearly fit, though booster-buckle placement prevents a perfect usability score.

4Space & ComfortOne of the CX-70's weakest categories.1.58D
Seating capacity
5 seats (two rows)
25/100
#19 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Every 2025 CX-70 is a five-seat, two-row SUV; buyers needing a third row must choose the CX-90.

Front headroom
39.6 in
52/100
#21 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The volume 3.3 Turbo S Premium provides competitive front headroom despite its standard panoramic moonroof.

Front legroom
41.7 in
38/100
#12 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Front legroom is adequate but not exceptional for a vehicle with this large exterior footprint.

Rear headroom
38.4 in
60/100
#22 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Second-row headroom is comfortably adult-usable.

Rear legroom
39.4 in
78/100
#16 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The second row has generous adult legroom, one of the main benefits of the two-row layout.

Third-row usability15
#22 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

No 2025 CX-70 trim offers a third row, so it scores in the required low band for this SUV item.

Cargo/trunk volume
39.6 cu ft behind the second row
27/100
#19 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The broad, squared cargo hold is useful for a two-row SUV, though not class-leading relative to the vehicle's length.

Max cargo volume
75.3 cu ft with the second row folded
45/100
#19 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Maximum volume is competitive but merely mid-pack for such a long mid-size SUV.

In-cabin storage & clever solutions67
#13 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Door bins, a covered console, underfloor cargo compartments and remote rear-seat releases cover daily needs, but there is no standout console or onboard-power solution.

Seat comfort73
#9 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The S Premium's supportive power seats and strong driving position suit long trips, though several reviewers find the cushions firm.

Ride quality59
#23 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Excellent body control comes with a taut, sometimes busy ride, especially on the volume trim's 21-inch wheels.

Cabin quietness77
#9 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Wind and road noise are well isolated at speed, although the inline-six becomes audible under hard acceleration.

Climate & comfort features82
#3 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The popular S Premium is richly equipped with heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and steering wheel, three-zone climate and rear sunshades.

5Cost of OwnershipMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.75C-
Base MSRP
$41,900 (3.3 Turbo Preferred, including $1,455 destination)
58/100
#15 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The gas CX-70 starts with the well-equipped 280-hp 3.3 Turbo Preferred; Mazda's published $40,445 MSRP excludes the model-year destination charge.

Volume-Trim Price
$53,905 (popular 3.3 Turbo S Premium, including $1,455 destination)
34/100
#23 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

TrueCar identifies the 3.3 Turbo S Premium as the popular and recommended trim. Its delivered price is premium-brand territory, although it includes the 340-hp inline-six and AWD.

5-Year Maintenance & Repair Cost
$2,649 over 5 years (maintenance and repairs)
100/100
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

CarEdge's CX-70-specific projection is exceptionally low for the segment and explicitly combines scheduled maintenance, wear items, and expected repairs. The model is new, so this remains a projection rather than a long history of observed costs.

5-Year Resale Value Retention
62.6% of original value retained after 5 years
75/100
#3 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

CarEdge projects 37% depreciation, or 62.6% retention, from a typically equipped CX-70. This is favorable, though necessarily modeled because 2025 was the nameplate's first year.

Basic warranty
3 yr / 36,000 mi bumper-to-bumper
0/100
#9 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Mazda's basic warranty sits at the minimum of the SUV normalization band and trails the five-year coverage offered by several rivals.

Powertrain warranty
5 yr / 60,000 mi powertrain
0/100
#9 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The conventional powertrain warranty is the segment-floor five years and 60,000 miles; the scored gas mild-hybrid trim receives no longer term.

Complimentary maintenance & perks45
#19 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Mazda includes no complimentary scheduled maintenance, keeping this in the low band. The package is softened by roadside assistance and a three-year Connected Services trial with remote functions, emergency calling, and vehicle-health alerts.

Effective 5-Year Ownership Cost
$22,809 (≈$20,160 depreciation + $2,649 maintenance)
70/100
#3 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

$53,905 volume-trim price minus its estimated resale value after 5 years (62.6% retained, or about $33,745) leaves about $20,160 in depreciation. Add the projected $2,649 in 5-year maintenance and repairs, and owning this vehicle for 5 years costs about $22,809 in total.

6Reliability & QualityThe CX-70's lowest-graded category.1.52D
Predicted reliability38
#19 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The first-year CX-70 has already produced below-average owner-survey results. J.D. Power is less severe than Consumer Reports but still places quality and reliability only in its Fair band, so the combined evidence belongs below 50.

Brand reliability track record70
#9 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Mazda's established vehicles retain a strong long-term reputation, but current new-car evidence is sharply mixed because its new Large Product Group SUVs have underperformed. A top-three J.D. Power dependability result and mid-pack Consumer Reports new-car ranking balance to an above-average but not top-tier score.

Recall & TSB history35
#23 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Three of the four listed CX-70 campaigns apply to the scored gas mild-hybrid, including possible loss of drive power and a fuel-reading defect that can cause a stall; only the inverter campaign is PHEV-only. Multiple software campaigns plus bulletins for no-start and transmission-related concerns are excessive for one model year and include meaningful safety consequences.

Powertrain durability reputation48
#20 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The volume 3.3 Turbo Preferred uses a still-new and mechanically complex inline-six, 48-volt mild-hybrid system, and Mazda-designed eight-speed automatic. Its CX-90 head start supplies some field experience, but there is not yet a high-mileage record, and early loss-of-power, no-start, and rough-shift evidence prevents an average-or-better durability judgment.

Interior material quality86
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Material richness is a defining CX-70 advantage: even against its premium positioning, reviewers consistently describe generous padding, high-quality controls, and near-luxury presentation. It stops short of the 90s because some supporting plastics remain mainstream-grade and lower trims lack the flagship upholstery and trim.

Fit & finish58
#22 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The CX-70 presents well when new, but assembly consistency did not hold up in a prominent yearlong test. Numerous cabin rattles and squeaks on that vehicle, alongside only Fair initial quality/reliability from verified owners, outweigh otherwise positive first impressions.

Dealer & service network60
#21 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Mazda offers nationwide franchised warranty support and has upgraded many facilities, but its U.S. footprint is materially thinner than Toyota's or Honda's and can mean longer trips outside metro areas. The improving showroom program supports an adequate rather than weak score.

Parts availability & repair cost58
#20 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Routine maintenance pricing is reasonable for a premium-positioned SUV, but this Japan-built first-year nameplate and its unique mild-hybrid inline-six/eight-speed drivetrain have limited aftermarket and salvage depth. That creates more dealer-parts exposure than Mazda's older high-volume models and leaves complex out-of-warranty repairs uncertain.

7Technology & InfotainmentOne of the CX-70's strongest categories.2.97B-
Touchscreen size
12.3 in
62/100
#7 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The volume Turbo S Premium uses Mazda's largest 2025 CX-70 center display.

Infotainment UX & responsiveness63
#18 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Mazda Connect is quick and clean with useful physical controls, but its rotary-controller emphasis and restricted touch operation frustrate phone-projection users.

Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto90
#10 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the scored S Premium and offered across the 2025 lineup.

Voice control & native navigation72
#8 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Alexa Built-in improves natural-language voice tasks, while Mazda Online Navigation is functional but most owners will favor phone maps.

Audio system quality80
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The S Premium's 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint system is a meaningful upgrade and benefits from the quiet cabin.

Digital instrument cluster84
#6 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A crisp 12.3-inch configurable digital instrument display is standard on the representative trim.

OTA update capability55
#17 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Mazda supports infotainment and navigation updates over the air, but not broad whole-vehicle feature or powertrain updates.

Companion app & remote functions60
#19 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

MyMazda supplies remote start, locks, status and vehicle finder during a three-year trial, but lacks phone-as-key and becomes subscription-based.

Charging ports & device power74
#13 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The S Premium includes front and rear USB-C ports plus wireless charging, but no household AC outlet or useful onboard power export.

Keyless & remote access80
#4 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Advanced keyless entry, app-based remote start and a hands-free power liftgate make the S Premium convenient, though it has no digital key.

Camera & parking aids84
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The volume trim has front/rear sensors and a useful 360-degree monitor with See-Through View, but no automated parking.

Head-up display availability88
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Mazda's informative windshield-projected Active Driving Display is standard on the representative S Premium trim.

8Use-Case FitMid-pack among this car's ten categories.2.58C+
Kid & car-seat practicality76
#11 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Wide rear access, roomy second-row seating, easy anchors and 39.6 cu ft of occupied-seat cargo make two-child duty easy; the fixed two-row layout limits larger families.

Family safety package92
#1 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A five-star NHTSA rating, IIHS Top Safety Pick+ performance and broad standard ADAS make this a class-leading family safety package.

Family road-trip comfort79
#7 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Four or five occupants get generous rear room, a quiet upscale cabin, rear heat and shades, and ample luggage space; firm ride quality and no third row cap the score.

Daily driving ease64
#21 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The refined inline-six, good driving position and standard driver aids reduce fatigue, but low-speed transmission hesitation and the taut 21-inch-wheel ride are daily annoyances.

Commuting cost efficiency58
#9 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The gas CX-70's 25 mpg combined is respectable for its size, but premium fuel for the 340-hp S Premium and large tires make it costlier than hybrid rivals.

Parking & maneuverability58
#6 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A 201.6-inch body is cumbersome in town, though the 38.1-foot turning diameter and S Premium's surround camera and sensors mitigate its bulk.

Work capability60
#7 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A 5,000-lb tow ceiling, strong torque and 75.3 cu ft of enclosed cargo handle moderate recreational work, but this luxury-leaning unibody SUV is no serious work tool.

Durability for work duty43
#21 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The new inline-six, 48-volt system and wet-clutch automatic lack a long work-duty record, while the Nappa-leather cabin has no wear-friendly fleet configuration.

Jobsite & upfit practicality48
#8 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Roof rails, tie-downs, hitch accessories and a powered liftgate cover basics, but there is no bed, onboard AC power, washable trim or meaningful commercial upfit ecosystem.

Long-distance comfort & range79
#4 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A quiet cabin, supportive seats, stable chassis, adaptive cruise and roughly 463 miles of combined range make it a strong tourer, tempered by firm ride quality.

Outdoor & adventure capability70
#6 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Standard rear-biased AWD, Off-Road mode, hill descent, about eight inches of clearance, rails and 5,000-lb towing suit trailheads and small campers, not technical terrain.

Gear & luggage flexibility80
#3 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A broad 39.6-cu-ft hold expands to 75.3 cu ft, aided by split-folding remote-release seats, underfloor storage, rails and hitch availability.

9Driving ExperienceOne of the CX-70's strongest categories.3.03B
Handling & agility85
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Rear-biased AWD, strong body control and Kinematic Posture Control make the CX-70 unusually balanced and engaging for a large mainstream SUV.

Steering feel82
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Accurate, naturally weighted steering and confident straight-line tracking are standouts, though effort can feel heavy in low-speed maneuvers.

Braking confidence74
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Braking performance is strong and fade-free, but the soft pedal and long travel keep feel below the chassis standard.

Powertrain smoothness & response60
#20 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The inline-six is smooth and forceful, but the first-year wet-clutch eight-speed hesitates, reacts late and can shift abruptly at low speeds.

Drivetrain noise & vibration82
#5 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The inherently balanced inline-six is refined and characterful with little vibration, though it becomes louder than expected under hard acceleration.

Turning circle
38.1 ft curb-to-curb
49/100
#7 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The turning diameter is reasonable for a 201.6-inch SUV but not especially city-friendly.

Driving position & ergonomics79
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A natural seating position, broad adjustment, head-up display and physical climate controls work well; the long hood and rotary infotainment controller add minor friction.

Fun-to-drive factor85
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

A rear-drive-biased chassis, characterful 340-hp inline-six and unusually communicative controls make this one of the rare family SUVs enthusiasts can enjoy.

10Value & Market PositionGrades above the middle of the scale.2.79B-
Standard equipment generosity82
#2 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The base Preferred is unusually complete: leather, heated power front seats, moonroof, 12.3-inch display, wireless smartphone integration and charging, adaptive cruise, lane keeping, blind-spot monitoring, 280-hp inline-six and AWD are standard. Few similarly priced mainstream rivals combine that cabin content with this powertrain hardware.

Feature value per dollar66
#14 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Rear-biased AWD, a turbo inline-six, premium cabin materials and strong cargo utility offer near-luxury substance for the money. Value is capped because equivalent CX-70 and CX-90 trims cost the same despite the CX-90 providing a third row, while Edmunds finds the CX-70 smaller and typically costlier than comparable midsize SUVs.

Trim & configuration breadth75
#11 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Seven trims span two gas outputs and a PHEV, with five gas choices from Preferred through Turbo S Premium Plus. Choice is good but not exceptional because all versions are five-seat AWD automatics, with no cheaper Select trim, front-wheel drive, or stand-alone option packages.

Sales popularity & market acceptance35
#24 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

The launch generated modest rather than mainstream-midsize volume: 10,678 U.S. deliveries in 2024 versus 54,676 for its CX-90 sibling. Later discounting and a 29% January 2026 decline reinforce that the market never strongly embraced the two-row derivative.

Brand desirability & image75
#3 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Mazda has a strong enthusiast, design, interior-quality and safety halo that supports its premium aspirations, although it lacks the status and dealer experience of a true luxury marque. The CX-70's rear-drive-biased platform and inline-six reinforce the favorable image.

Deals & incentive availability85
#6 of 25 Mid-Size SUVsCompare all →

Buyer benefit is excellent on remaining 2025 inventory: transaction data show unusually large average discounts, with enough negotiability to overcome part of the questionable original pricing. The score stops short of maximum because availability is now thin and the discounts partly reflect slow sales and leftover status.

Model freshness92
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This is the first CX-70 model year and the first year of its generation, with current longitudinal Large Product Group architecture and electrified powertrains. It is closely derived from the 2024 CX-90 rather than clean-sheet unique, preventing a perfect freshness score.

Critical reception & awards60
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Reviewers praise handling, cabin quality, cargo room and safety, and the CX-70 earned IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ plus U.S. News family recognition. It was not a major comparison or SUV-of-the-Year winner, however, and repeated criticism targets its CX-90 duplication, firm ride, low-speed powertrain behavior and weak value logic.