Mazda CX
For some, the name Mazda brings to mind a little roadster or, if you’re old enough, a quirky Wankel rotary engine. The Wankel is gone, though the Miata is still around. But these days, Mazda is a very different brand, largely defined by two of its newest and most lavishly outfitted products, the two-row CX-70 and three-row CX-90.
The CX-70 is a plug-in hybrid package that manages to do the seemingly impossible: deliver significantly better fuel economy and improved performance compared with the base gas engine. CX-70 PHEV also musters up to 30 miles of range in all-electric mode, thanks to a 17.8 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery.
The CX-90 (pictured) is the solid choice for those with large families or who plan to travel with friends. The CX-70, with a roomy two-row, five-seat layout, uses its extra space to provide a cavernous passenger compartment.
Across the line-up, Mazda delivers some of the most inspiring designs you’ll find on the road today. And that’s true of both these cross-over packages. Its familiar Kodo design language confers a subtly sculpted, Coke bottle curve to the doors and fenders. The hood features muscular creases flowing out of a more upright take on the automaker’s familiar grille. It’s a handsome and distinctive look that gives both vehicles a more distinguished and upscale appearance.
Inside, a variety of subtle details enhance CX-70’s feeling of luxury, including the vertical striping on the ventilated seats, which are available with high-line trims, like the Turbo S Premium Plus. Other than the base trim—with its simulated leather—you get the real thing. Top-line packages have the more elegant Nappa leather seating. For the tech-minded, the CX-70 adopts new infotainment technology that integrates Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant.
Mazda offers three powertrain options. The gas-powered Turbo and Turbo S models punch out anywhere from 280 to 340 horsepower and deliver a sportier ride than many of the SUV’s competitors. The CX-90 PHEV pairs a 2.5-liter, four-inline gas engine with a 68-kilowatt electric motor. The combined package pushes 340 hp to all four wheels—if you fuel up with premium, that is. Regular gas drops the pony count to 319, though torque remains 369 pound-feet, whatever the grade.
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 starts at $41,795 before delivery fees, the PHEV starting at $55,930. If you need a third row, the CX-90 starts at $39,574. But for all cars, be aware that new tariffs may increase pricing on Japanese products in the coming months.
