2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV GT- Aspirational SUV  Impresses!

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The new  2025 Mazda CX-70 is not really new, it is based on the stellar Mazda CX-90 SUV but without the third row of seats. Still, it is as  luxurious and refined as  the CX-90, transporting five peoplein roomy comfort. There are only minor differences. as well, with a deleted third seatsand slightly different grille wheels and bumpers, plus  blacked-out exterior trim. For 2025 addedfeatures include Amazon Alexa integration, and an underfloor storage compartment in the cargo area. It is a  handsome, sporty vehicle with smooth unpolarizing lines.

The CX-70 is available with the standard e-Skyactiv G 3.3L turbo engine with  280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The electrified powertrain options  include two versions of the MAZDA e-Skyactiv G 3.3L inline-six turbo with 48-volt M-Hybrid Boost,  and  e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain. All three choices are joined  to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. Towing is rated at a maximum   capacity of 5,000 lbs when suitably equipped.There is also a high-output e-Skyactiv G 3.3L turbo engine producing an impressive 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel.

 We tested the e-Skyactiv PHEV version of the CX-70   which features anelectric motor powered by a 17.8-kWh battery pack paired with a 2.5L four-cylinder. This combination  produces 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque on 93 octane fuel. Mazda says the CX-70 PHEV can travel up to 50 kilometres on electric power and return an energy consumption rating as low as 4.2 Le/100 km. The PHEV equipped with  the right tow package can   tow up to 3,500 lbs.

Pricing for CX -70starts at $49,750 for the GS-L, $54,350 for the GT and $58,300 for the GT-P and tops out at $62,300 for the Signature. PHEV pricing starts at $58,750 for the PHEV GS-L, with the PHEV GT as tested coming in at $63,350.

The CX-70 comes well equipped as standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment system  with  Mazda’s latest operating system, but no touch screen,  there’s a control knob and a hard button on the center console that operate the display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities are standard, and there is also the option for  Amazon Alexa connectivity integration. A 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a head-up display are both optional.

Premium trims and above come with a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, quilted Nappa leather upholstery and leather-wrapped steering wheel, plus suede trim on the dash. Options include the high line Signature version with the   12.3-inch digital gauge display with a head-up Active Driver Display, Mazda Connect central infotainment display with touch control and other extras.

The CX-70 interior is rich in appearance and quality of materials and offers a sharp highly effective look combining  sport and comfort. High points include a roomy interior, features laden technology, excellent safety Features and a high -quality cabin and  comfort area for six-footers both front and back. The trunk on the CX-70 has 1,131 litres behind the second row and 2,147 litres when the second row is folded flat. There is s another 30 litres of hidden storage under the floor where the third row of seats on the CX-90 Would have been.

The PHEV version, which costs about the same as the high output, is quick when needed. It can be set to drive exclusively on electric power, It can also drive solely on gas power to recharge or conserve the battery.

On the road, the CX-70 performs well wit decent acceleration and good handling. The all-wheel drive system has a rear tuned bias with  Mazda’s “kinematic posture control” that acts on the rear suspension, – itsautomatic  systems that will apply braking to select wheels  if the sensors detect lift at the rear of the CX-70 on corners and acceleration. This system allows the CX-70 to remain fairly neutral and stable around curves and  braking, for a smoother ,more controlled ride. It works impressively I found. No real vices in the driving experience. The only down is the  infotainment system with the fiddly controller.

To sum up  the CX-70 is a practical, capable, and comfortable SUV.The PHEV is good value for money with  itsbetter  fuel consumption and ability to travel that 50 Kilometres using just electric power. The CX-70 is a great option if you like the CX-90,  but only need five seats. Highly recommended as an all-roundimpressive family SUV.