Car review: 2025 Mazda CX-70

Posted 20 March, 2025 Mark Borlace

Mazda fans are spoilt for choice when it comes to SUVs. The Hiroshima-based car manufacturer now offers seven different models, and the latest is its first all-hybrid CX-70.

Value

Mazda says the CX-70’s competitive price means its target buyers are older drivers who don’t need seven seats and will find the bigger boot more useful for their lifestyle.

The Japanese-made CX-70 feels like European luxury with its high-quality materials and attention to detail.

Features and range

The CX-70 GT is the entry model, yet it comes with luxury features such as a panoramic sun-roof, a premium Bose amplifier with 12 speakers, powered leather front seats, and two 12.3-inch screens – one for the Mazda Connect infotainment system and the other a multi-information display.

Spend another $7000 on the CX-70 Azami and you’ll get an aesthetic boost, with black or burgundy Nappa leather seat trim, body-coloured wheel arches and lower cladding, ambient lighting and body-colour exterior side door handles.

Design and function

A 150W AC power socket in the cargo area is handy for charging items such as a small portable fridge or e-bike battery.

Space in the CX-70 is generous and although it’s the same body size as the CX-90, it only seats five. There’s space for three adults in the back and the seats also recline for more comfortable long trips.

The flat cargo floor and the 40/20/40 split seats also improve the use of the whole space. Mazda Connected Services via the MyMazda app is available across the entire CX-70 range. It offers useful features such as vehicle status and health, stolen vehicle assistance, remote lock, a flashlight functionality and vehicle locator to help you find your car.

On the road

The CX-70 is an easy ride thanks to its all-wheel drive system designed with rear-wheel-drive bias. In both the petrol and diesel versions the power is adequate but delivered differently. As the ‘In-line 6’ badge on the front guards proclaims, both CX-70 types have turbocharged 3.3-litre engines, but the diesel power delivery is smoother and quieter than the petrol.

The CX-70’s size and mass mean neither variant was destined for class-leading fuel efficiency, even with the hybrid system, but the diesel is far more frugal on fuel than the petrol version. The petrol engine also needs the more expensive 95 RON fuel.

Mazda’s M Hybrid Boost 48V mild hybrid technology supports both engines, which assists at lower speeds to maximise driving efficiency. During deceleration, the hybrid system puts charge back into its 17.8kWh battery.

The bottom line

The CX-70 will suit buyers who have a decent budget for an SUV and want a car that’s big enough to cater for any variety of lifestyles but don’t need to transport seven people.