Mazda expands its SUV lineup with the 2025 Mazda CX-70, positioning itself in the premium segment. This five-seater model emerges as a more compact and exclusive alternative to the already well-known CX-90. Does the CX-70 truly deliver the promised luxury experience, or is it just another SUV on the market?
Design and Imposing Presence
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 Azami makes a strong impression at first glance with its robust and elegant design. The imposing front grille, combined with the smooth lines of the body, conveys a sense of sophistication. The 21-inch wheels and black accents reinforce the sportiness and premium character of the SUV.
The Soul Red Crystal color featured in the tested model deserves special mention. Considered one of the most beautiful automotive shades, it enhances the shapes of the CX-70 and sets it apart in a crowd. The color palette offers interesting options such as Melting Copper Metallic and Zircon Sand Metallic, catering to various tastes.
Refined and Technological Interior
Upon entering the CX-70 Azami, the feeling of luxury intensifies. The optional Nappa Tan leather upholstery elevates the finishing standard, providing comfort and refinement. Soft suede details on the dashboard and doors, combined with leather on other surfaces, create a warm and sophisticated atmosphere.
The embedded technology is a strong point of the CX-70. The infotainment system with a 12.3-inch display, though straightforward, offers intuitive navigation. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel complements the experience, albeit with limited customization. Connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly is a welcome bonus.
Space and Practicality for Five
Sharing the same platform as the CX-90, the CX-70 offers generous interior space, especially for second-row passengers. Adults travel comfortably and have dedicated air conditioning vents and USB-C ports. Features like manual window shades and reclining, heated rear seats elevate the comfort level.
The trunk of the CX-70 accommodates 598 liters with the rear seats in the upright position, expanding to 2,015 liters with the seats folded down. Despite being a five-seater model, the CX-70 inherits some elements from the seven-seater CX-90, such as cup holders and air conditioning vents in the area where the third row would be, a detail that could be better optimized.
Powertrain and Exciting Performance
The standout feature of the CX-70 Azami is the 3.3-liter turbo inline-six engine in its most powerful version. With 341 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque, the SUV delivers vigorous performance. The acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in about 7 seconds demonstrates agility for a vehicle of this size and weight (4,845 lbs).
Although the power difference from the less powerful version of the same engine (280 hp) is not glaring in practice, the CX-70 Azami offers a more refined and enjoyable driving experience. The eight-speed automatic Skyactiv-Drive transmission and the I-Active AWD system complement the mechanical package.
Mazda also offers a diesel version of this engine, producing 251 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Both G50e versions of the CX-70 include a 48V mild hybrid system, aiming to enhance energy efficiency.
Driving Dynamics and Comfort
The handling of the CX-70 is one of its strengths. The precise and well-calibrated steering conveys confidence and provides a sporty feel. The suspension, while firm, ensures good body control in corners, keeping noise and vibration levels in check.
The 21-inch wheels of the Azami model may slightly compromise comfort on uneven surfaces, transmitting some vibrations into the cabin. Smaller wheels, such as the 18-inch ones used in the CX-80, could offer a smoother ride. Still, the CX-70 remains comfortable in most situations.
The eight-speed automatic transmission, while competent, could be more refined in some situations, especially during low-speed maneuvers. The adaptive cruise control demonstrated unexpected behavior on winding roads, reducing speed unnecessarily in gentle curves, a point that needs improvement.
Surprising Fuel Consumption
Despite the powerful engine, the fuel consumption of the Mazda CX-70 Azami is impressive. The combined average published by the brand is 29 mpg, surpassing the less powerful CX-80. In testing, the average was 29 mpg on highway routes, rising to about 24 mpg in urban use. These numbers demonstrate good efficiency for an SUV of this size and powertrain.
Specifications Table for 2025 Mazda CX-70 Azami
| Model | Mazda CX-70 G50e Azami |
| Starting Price (Approx.) | US$ 60,683 |
| Engine | 3.3L Turbo Inline-Six |
| Power | 341 hp |
| Torque | 500 Nm |
| 0-60 mph (Approx.) | 7 seconds |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 29 mpg |
Pros and Cons of the 2025 Mazda CX-70 Azami
- Elegant and imposing exterior design
- Luxurious and well-finished interior
- Powerful and responsive engine
- Generous interior space
- Efficient fuel consumption
- Hard plastics in less visible interior areas
- Suspension may be firm on uneven surfaces
- Automatic transmission could be more refined
- Adaptive cruise control with irregular behavior
- High price on the top trim
Final Verdict: Is the Investment in the 2025 Mazda CX-70 Premium Worth It?
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 Azami stands out as a premium SUV with an attractive design, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. Although it is not an affordable vehicle, the top trim offers a complete package of equipment and technologies that justify the investment for those seeking sophistication and performance.
Mazda could enhance some details, such as the refinement of the transmission and the suspension tuning, to further elevate the onboard experience. A greater visual differentiation from the CX-90 would also be welcome. However, the CX-70 positions itself as an excellent option in the competitive premium SUV market, offering a Japanese alternative to German models at a more competitive price.
