CX-70: More design distinction than most mid-size SUVs

I have never been shy about sharing my affinity for any automaker who steps outside the safe zone when designing a vehicle. It takes a lot of courage and sometimes a bit of luck to get it right – but Mazda continues to get it right with some of the most distinctive-looking SUVs out there.

When Mazda introduced the CX-70, it was clear they aimed to elevate the SUV experience with a blend of luxury, performance and practicality. I recently tested the CX-70 Turbo S Premium Plus model, offering hybrid power to an already-capable turbo engine, and the results were pretty compelling.

Positioned between the compact CX-50 and the larger CX-90, the CX-70 fills a niche for those seeking a mid-size SUV with a premium edge. With a base price of $55,905 and a final price for my tester of $57,775, the CX-70 Turbo S Premium sits firmly in the premium SUV market – but does it have a solid audience? I think it will do just fine.

Big exterior style

Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy is on full display with the CX-70, resulting in an SUV that’s both sleek and muscular. The long hood and short rear overhang create a sporty silhouette, while subtle curves and sharp creases give it an upscale appearance. The 21-inch alloy rims for the Premium model add to the elegance, while all-season rubber keeps it planted year-round.

This is a handsome SUV with distinctive styling that cannot be mistaken for anything else on the road. I like the sleek treatment of the LED headlights and taillights. Buyers will appreciate the understated elegance Mazda brings to this segment. Getting inside the cabin will make it even more apparent.

Refined comfort

Inside the CX-70 you’ll find a cabin that rivals European competitors in quality and sophistication. Premium materials like Nappa leather and genuine wood trim adorn the interior, while attention to detail is evident in the stitching and layout.

I found the seats to be both supportive and comfortable, with plenty of bolstering, with ample legroom for front and rear passengers. My tester featured heated second-row seats that illustrate how far upscale the Mazda trim packages will take you.

Cargo space is good, but not in the top third of the competition. The CX-70 is a practical choice for families, though the sloping roofline that looks so good on the outside does cut down a bit on headroom and some cargo. Put down the third row and second row, and you have plenty of storage space.

The infotainment system is anchored by a 12.3-inch touchscreen, which integrates seamlessly with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 12-speaker Bose sound system enhances the audio experience and features like a head-up display and ventilated seats come standard in the Turbo S Premium trim. While the interface is intuitive, some users may find the rotary controller less desirable than a fully touch-based system.

Tech

Mazda’s i-Activsense suite of safety features comes standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The CX-70 also includes a 360-degree camera system and parking sensors, which are particularly helpful in crowded city settings.

Performance

The CX-70 offers two variants of its turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine: Standard offers 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque; and a high-performance version with 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. My Premium Plus tester featured the latter mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Overall, I found the CX-70 tester to provide solid acceleration that comes with extremely smooth shifts throughout the process. At highway speeds, I was able to pass at will with very little effort, and even less cabin noise. The CX-70 also offers a plug-in hybrid that’s paired to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder delivering a total capability of 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

On the road, the CX-70 handles more like a sports sedan than an SUV. The steering is precise, and the suspension does a commendable job of soaking up road imperfections while maintaining composure during spirited driving. The exterior refinement transfers effortlessly to the cabin.

Final thoughts

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 Turbo S Premium successfully combines luxury, performance, and practicality in a mid-size SUV. It’s a compelling choice for buyers who want the refinement of a luxury brand without veering into excessively high price points.

While the final price of $57,775 reflects its premium positioning, the CX-70 delivers enough value in features, performance, and design to justify the cost.

• John Stein is a freelance journalist based in Chicago. He has more than 25 years of experience driving, testing and writing about the automotive industry, its latest innovations and new vehicles.