Mazda has spent the last decade quietly rewriting its own identity. Once known primarily for affordable efficiency and lightweight handling, the brand now sits in an unusual space—aiming squarely between mainstream crossovers and entry-level luxury. The 2025 Mazda CX-70 represents the clearest expression yet of that ambition.
After more than 6,000 miles of real-world driving, the question becomes less about first impressions and more about endurance. Does the CX-70 still feel special when the novelty fades? Can it maintain composure during daily commuting, highway travel, and the inevitable grind of ownership? And perhaps most importantly, does Mazda’s promise of driver-focused engineering actually hold up when life gets in the way?
What emerges is a two-row SUV that doesn’t merely compete on features or price—it competes on feel.
A Powertrain That Defines the Experience
At the heart of the CX-70 is Mazda’s new-generation 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, a configuration rarely seen in this segment. Producing strong, linear torque, the engine delivers its performance with a calm confidence rather than aggressive theatrics.
On the highway, passing maneuvers require little planning. Power arrives smoothly, without the artificial surge often associated with smaller turbocharged four-cylinder rivals. Around town, the engine’s refinement becomes even more noticeable. There’s a maturity to its response that feels closer to European luxury brands than traditional Japanese competitors.
The rear-biased all-wheel-drive system plays a major role in shaping that personality. Steering feels planted, especially at speed, and the vehicle maintains a sense of balance through sweeping on-ramps and long curves. While the CX-70 is not a sports SUV in the traditional sense, it carries itself with poise—never floaty, never disconnected.
Fuel economy settles into a realistic, livable range over extended driving. It may not lead the class on paper, but it avoids the penalty often associated with six-cylinder power. In everyday ownership, that balance matters far more than headline numbers.
Ride Quality That Prioritizes the Driver
Mazda’s chassis tuning philosophy has long emphasized communication over isolation, and the CX-70 continues that tradition—albeit with a more refined edge.
The suspension absorbs broken pavement without excessive softness. You feel the road, but not in a way that becomes tiring. Instead, the CX-70 strikes a careful compromise: firm enough to maintain body control, yet compliant enough for long-distance comfort.
Over thousands of miles, this tuning proves intentional rather than accidental. Highway cruising remains calm and composed, with minimal wind noise and impressive straight-line stability. On secondary roads, the steering delivers accurate feedback that encourages engagement without demanding attention.
This is an SUV that rewards the driver subtly, rather than loudly.
An Interior That Ages Gracefully
Many vehicles impress at first glance. Far fewer continue to feel premium after months of daily use.
The CX-70’s interior holds up remarkably well. Nappa leather seating surfaces show minimal wear, and the materials throughout the cabin maintain their tactile quality. Mazda’s design restraint works in its favor here—there are fewer glossy surfaces to scratch, fewer gimmicks to age poorly.
The infotainment system remains screen-forward but sensibly integrated. Rather than dominating the dashboard, it sits naturally within the driver’s sightline. Wireless smartphone projection works reliably, and physical controls for key functions reduce distraction.
Importantly, the cabin feels designed for use, not just admiration. Storage areas are practical, the center console is well sized, and daily interactions never feel overcomplicated.
Space and Utility Without Excess
As a two-row SUV, the CX-70 avoids the compromises often found in three-row crossovers. Rear seat legroom is generous, easily accommodating adults on longer trips. The seating position remains comfortable even after extended driving, with supportive cushioning and proper thigh support.
Cargo space is thoughtfully executed. The rear area offers a wide opening and usable depth, while underfloor storage adds flexibility for smaller items or travel essentials. This isn’t a vehicle designed around maximum volume figures—it’s designed around realistic usage.
That philosophy becomes evident over time. Grocery runs, luggage loading, and daily errands all feel intuitive rather than forced.
Living With the Quirks
No long-term vehicle experience is without imperfections, and the CX-70 is no exception.
At low speeds, the transmission can occasionally hesitate, particularly during gentle throttle inputs in traffic. It’s not a persistent issue, but it’s noticeable enough to register. Brake noise can also appear intermittently, especially during colder starts.
Yet these quirks never escalate into deal-breakers. They remain background details rather than defining traits. What matters is that the fundamentals—engine refinement, ride quality, interior durability, and overall balance—remain consistently strong.
Over thousands of miles, that consistency becomes the vehicle’s greatest strength.
A Premium Experience Without Premium Pretension
Perhaps the CX-70’s most impressive accomplishment is how convincingly it delivers a luxury-adjacent experience without trying to be something it isn’t.
Mazda doesn’t chase badge prestige. Instead, it focuses on how the vehicle feels day after day. The result is an SUV that often feels more expensive than its price suggests—not because it overwhelms with technology, but because it gets the basics right.
There’s a sense of cohesion here. The powertrain matches the chassis. The interior supports the driving position. The design avoids unnecessary drama. Everything works toward the same goal: making driving enjoyable again, even in a segment dominated by sameness.
The Long-Mile Verdict
After 6,000 miles, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 proves that driver-focused dynamics and everyday comfort can coexist. It doesn’t rely on exaggerated styling or feature overload to make its case. Instead, it builds trust mile by mile.
For buyers seeking a compact luxury SUV that values balance over bravado, the CX-70 stands apart. It delivers confident performance, real-world utility, and a personality that doesn’t fade with familiarity.
In an era where many crossovers feel interchangeable, Mazda has built something refreshingly intentional—and that may be its greatest achievement.
