BEST ENGINEERED SUV // 2025 MAZDA CX-70 // ALSO MOST FUN-TO-DRIVE // FULL ENGINEER'S REVIEW 

Mazda is hidden gems among automobiles but it’s a reward to those who found it.

Mazda automotive design is arguably one of the most beautiful, classy, timeless designs next to the beautify of Italian minimalism, that is available in this price segment. The inline six cylinder engine achieves a standing ovation! First and foremost most if not all manufactures are moving away from six cylinders to four cylinders. So just the fact that Mazda is making available a six cylinder is exciting. Add to that it's a straight six cylinder as it offers several advantages over the V6 configuration. The inline six allows for inherit primary and secondary balance offering smoother operation and vibration compared to V-6. The firing order and reciprocating masses of the inline six naturally counteract each other eliminating the need for counter balancing shafts. Inline-six have a more straightforward design with a single cylinder head and fewer moving parts, making them generally easier to manufacture and maintain. When it comes to interior quality, upholstery, fit and finish, Mazda is notches above the closest competitor in this segment/price. Very classy, thoughtful interior design. Meticulous fit and finish in this price range. The interior design is timeless, and classy and quality close to, if not at or above a Porsche without the exorbitant price, and with Japanese quality and reliability. I truly believe that if properly maintained, and well-cared for I could see this CX providing many years and many hundred's of thousands of miles of pleasureful ownership.

Yesterday, I was getting a routine service done on our 2023 rhodium white CX-5 Sig and made the mistake (not really) taking test driver a CX-70 Turbo S Premium. I went home with the rhodium white CX-70. It's that good 😊 Last year I test drove a CX-90 and, well, kinda hated it. Transmission was not good and all and the start stop feature made things much worse. It handled and accelated well but it felt like a step down to our CX-5 Signature. Mazda has truly worked miracles with the transmission and overall smoothness. Being empty nesters, what we've always wanted was a CX-5 Signature that had more cargo space. We got what we wanted and then some.

So far, this vehicle seems perfect for the actual day-to-day use my family and I need.

I never thought I would look at a Mazda, but now I will thanks to your review.

I’ve owned Honda, Toyota and now Subaru since the 90s. But I have to say, Mazda always seems like the most aesthetically pleasing. I’m partial to Subaru because of its awesome AWD system, but man I’d like to drive one of these CX70s. No hybrid for me, n/a or turbo is my choice. Thank you for the video.

Just got my cx70 ! The whole neighborhood can’t believe it’s a Mazda ! Got the sandy color with Carmel interior.. ❤ DUSTEE

We’ve gotten so use to David doing these panel gap measurements that we’ve become desensitized with the results….this is the exception. Even more reason to buy a Mazda, aside from reliability. Having said that, I prefer the look of the CX-90 over the CX-70.😅 Thanks David!

I love Mazda, and I believe it is the best car brand in the market for price-conscious customers. I own a 2023 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition, and I love my car. The driving dynamics are so engaging, and the fit and finish are luxurious. You can feel luxury without gimmicky design elements, and that’s what I believe contributes to the timelessness of Mazda's current design. Driving the CX-5 in the city is a pleasure, as taking a turn or driving on curvy roads with this car is amazing. Driving the CX-5 on the highway is a pleasure as well. The car feels very intact and silent even above 80 mph. The 0-60 time feels naturally and sufficiently fast with the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv engine. I own and invest in Mazda and wish the best for the brand. I am very excited about the CX-70 and what it has to offer in the future. That brings me to what I want from Mazda in terms of design. Even though I am excited about the new CX-70, I do not think I would sell my CX-5 for it and accrue more financial cost. However, if the following design elements are addressed, I might be "crazy" enough to sell my CX-5 and buy a CX-70. The following are my humble opinions on what Mazda should address in the CX-70 in terms of design: 1. The back of the car is the ugliest part of it. Get rid of the hunchback. I wish the CX-70 did not have the hunchback and looked similar to the back of the 2024 Acura MDX, or had the same design they currently have but without the hunchback. 2. The driver’s seat should be more roomy. Legroom in the back seats should accommodate a 6-foot-3 person sitting behind a 6-foot-3 driver comfortably. Additionally, a 6-foot-3 person should be able to reach the back of the trunk comfortably. Unless this happens, I believe Mazda will have a hard time reaching the general male audience in the United States. I am a 6-foot-3 person who grew up in Turkey. I have been living in the United States for the past six years. One thing I can tell is that people here are larger than in Turkey (maybe more than in Europe too). 3. The front console protrudes between the infotainment screen and climate control. It looks aesthetically unpleasant, and the whole dash should use more materials than if it were straight (see the triangular inequality theorem). I wish that part of the front console would straighten up like in the CX-5. 4. I feel like the center console, where the shift and dial control is located, is too wide. The dial control, shift, and other buttons look like they don’t belong there much. That space might be used to widen the driver and passenger seats. Even in its current state, I believe the new CX-70 looks amazing, and it is one of the best luxurious cars in the market. I would buy the CX-70 over the BMW X5. I love Mazda and I constantly talk about my car to my family and friends, so much so that they are bored of it. The design improvements that I suggested in this comment are my dear wishes from Mazda as one of its customers and a baby shareholder. And, I thank David for sharing his expertise about cars on RU-vid.

Mazda is so far ahead of the mainstream manufacturers. Not even premium badged manufacturers can match the attention to detail.

Like the calm, concise delivery of this reviewer. A breath of fresh air and now subscribed.

I’m really considering the Mazda CX70 as my retirement vehicle. The engineering, interior/exterior are on another level. Thanks for confirming and validating my research.

I so appreciate your engineer's perspective and attention to detail. I'm cross-shopping SUVs right now and this car is gorgeous inside and out.

Wow Mazda is back!! I remember back in the days the Mazda 929 was great competition with Lexus,BMW and such. People that had merc money were choosing the 929. After the 2000 Mazda seemed to lose their way making cars more on par with Kia and Hyundai at the same time. Now I can say it’s back!! The C70 with captain chairs in the back. Bam !!

Great. Had Mazda since 1998. A 89 323SE 5 spd manual trans. 2007 Mazda3 also manual trans. Now a 2018 Mazda3. All these positive youtube video gurus are gonna jack up the prices. I hope Mazda stays Humble and True to Form and does not do anything drastic like some auto manufacturers have done lately and having all come back and bite you in your rearend, like main bearing probs, EV mess, AFM probs etc, etc. Mazda, please avoid the mess out there.

That was an excellent review, thank you.

$60,000 K for a suv that as soonest you drive it out of the stealership it will depreciate about $15,000 K HOLY JESUS in 1990 that’s what I paid for my 4 bedroom 2 bathrooms front and backyard new home in landcaster California 😮😮😮

I’m a huge car guy and I tell people besides Toyota, Honda, Subaru, and Mazda are the ones to get. The thing I love about Mazda it doesn’t give u the need to upgrade it because it’s a timeless design. They looks haven’t changed much at all actually and love the driving feel u get as well. I’m a Toyota guy but when I pay my car off I may give Mazda a go

You sir are a scientist of the highest order!

David, When it comes to fun, rear wheel drive will always win the day.

You motivated me to include this in my search.✅✅✅

The CX70 really looks good from your description. The one thing that makes me hesitate is that it is a turbo engine. Turbo means better power and gas mileage but less reliability and more costly repairs. Also I live in an apartment so I can't use plug in if I want to go hybrid.

I've owned 2 Mazda vehicles. Both were a blast to drive, and I've owned Porsches and BMWs. The last one I had was a 2007 C-X7. It was fun, but I couldn't believe how poor the 2.3 liter turbo fuel economy was. I am so pleased to see that they have gone to a six cylinder. I may have to trade my 2016 4Runner in for one of these. Great review as usual!

i have had a few Mazda before i was very happy, i drive Lexus but need a new SUV i have been looking @ CX-9 but two seat is perfect for me & wife only, thanks for your presentation.

I love my CX-90 and actually agree with Mazda about not having full touchscreen functionality. I quickly got used to the knobs by the center console and find it easier that reaching for the screen. Also, no finger prints on the screen!

As a car enthusiast, I can appreciate all the meticulous details Mazda has attended to in order to achieve perfection.

If I was a car designer this would be the car which I say proudly I designed it.

It is amazing that Mazda spent so much time on paint and panel gaps, but reused the cargo area interior panels of the CX90 instead of designing model specific ones?

I'm really stunned by the design and the level of detail of Mazda CX-60!

I have bought more Mazda's than any other brand, and never been disappointed. It makes me biased, but every time I cross shop, they find a way to make driving an enjoyable task.

Great video and observations. I concur with your assessment of Mazda driving feels; I have a CX9 and I enjoy every minute behind the wheel.

David, I always appreciate your expert opinion on Mazda. Thank You

I wish mazda could build a mazda6 sedan version just like this. This styling in and out, straight 6 turbo, rwd…oh! Can you see it?

A full week with our Soul Red, with black interior CX-70 TRB and its truly wonderful.

Great review. Mazda vehicles have not steered me wrong. Dealerships and service centers are weak point. Unlike Tesla, I still can’t go look, learn and experience a potential purchase without the pressure of a traditional dealership. This isn’t Mazda’s fault but it does make it harder. Service centers local pricing are also all over the place and suggest superfluous services. Also have had a fair amount of unwarranted disrespect. Will still look at Mazda before other manufacturers especially as they hit higher on quality metrics

Stopping researching on q5 and xc60 and switching to cx-70

We had a cx9 for a few years, it was a great suv that drove like a sedan.

The drivetrain is not quite there yet versus the european counterparts. At 4-5000rpm the turbo makes a loud "wooshing" noise that sends violent vibration to the whole chassis, every time. Plenty of power for daily use as a 3-row SUV. Interior styling is fantastic, love the physical buttons. Fit and finish are top notch despite some parts feel a bit hollow and flimsy. In Canada the CX-70/90 is a much better value than in the U.S. However, Mazda needs to work on their packaging, the red interior is SO limited it's mind boggling...

I love both the new CX70 and the new Toyota Crown Signia. After watching both reviews I am torn as to which one I want.

You made me change my mind about Mazda. Thank you, Buddy! 👍

Thank you for the nice and warm review! It feels like you speak directly from your heart! ❤️👍

As per above comments I 16:37 love the idea of a RWD/AWD inline 6 sedan and Wagon. BRING IT! Put me down for an estate or wagon!

I like having the controls by my hand.. Such a joy to drive....

Fantastic review of this vehicle. I’ve been looking for my replacement for my Grand Cherokee and this is the one that comes closest for me. The value is off the charts compared to the other Asian car makers. Thank you again for putting such a great review.

It seems the only thing lacking from this and the CX90 is an available torque vectoring differential. Spec, power are about the same as the Germans but interior is a class above the new BMW layout (no need to comment about Mercedes). Looking forward to future Mazda BEVs for sure.

Very Nice Review of this new Mazda. I'm liking all the Numbers as well as the design of the Premium Plus Turbo S model. I feel that though You are a bit remiss in not including comparisons to the 24 Acura MDX Advance (the 25 MDX has been slightly redesigned that thankfully eliminated the TTIP Touch Pad InfoT system , added Massaging front seats, included a new B&O stereo system [the current ELS system in my 22 MDX is outstanding!?]. The 25 MDX A-Spec Advance is priced at $68-69K , that's $10K +/- more than the CX-70 Premium Plaus Turbo S. The CX-70 is delivering HP & Torque of the Type S, a little less luxury, continuing the Console dial InfoT. system not in AA or CP mode [thankfully they did go wioth a Touchscreen in AA or CP] and one should consider the quality of Mazda's AWD systems (Rear wheel based is imopressive - the Acura is Front wheel based) vs Acura's well known SH-AWD which is really Good. You compare the CX-70 with a Pathfinder - you should have compared it to the Infiniti CX-60. I will gve this CX-70 serious consideration as I look to either buy my 222 MDX Advance at my lease expiration (only has 21K miles on it after 3 years), or lease a new Vehicle.

Will definitely test drive a Mazda CX50 or 70 next time I'm shopping around for SUVs. Genesis GV70 3.5T is rear wheel biased AWD drifts on demand in Sport+. Show me a Mazda SUV that likes going sideways and handles smaller than it is. In the end invariably I find myself leaning toward a X3 30i or 40i or GLC 43 or maybe lately the xc90 especially the hybrids.the top end produce close to 400hp/400 lb ft . Mazda never matches those numbers sadly yet want to charge similar prices. Zoom zoom has always left me underwhelmed once behind the wheel. They just don't have the get up n go of other brands.

I was considering an Acura MDX until the CX-90 came out. The styling on the Mazda is better. The paint is better. There's little, if any piano black plastic on the interior. The inline 6, which I had in a BMW 20 years ago, are all pluses for me. I was reserved about Soul Crystal Red on that large a body, but having seen a CX-50 with it, in a parking lot, it's a much deeper color than I imagined. Sadly, Mazda's marketing photography doesn't accurately convey what these colors really look like. I'm sold on the CX-70, largely from reviews like your's David. 2.9 mm panel gaps?! Impressive!

Would love to watch you try a Mazda CX 70 PHEV and see how it stacks up to the Inline V6.

The CX-90 and CX-70 should just be one model with the CX-90 having "the optional 3rd-row seating". Great vehicle that competes directly with the Toyota Grand Highlander's higher trims. My family buys mostly Mazdas and Toyotas, and have rarely been disappointed with their quality.

Description of driving experience reminds me of my almost 7 year old Jaguar F-Pace. Will have to check out this Mazda.

We have CX-80 here in Europe recently launched by Mazda and one of the engine options is an inline 6 cylinder diesel engine...

Agreed beautiful and powerful. Space is missing. Now if they made a real 7 seater, I would buy it and use it with my family.

Touchscreen is ok if you’re stationary but a bit difficult on not so perfect roads and at least to me unsafe in heavy city traffic.

I love only Mazda for Japan car. They provide worth of money and with technology, dare color, and distinctive interior.. this brand will be Japan number 1 in the next few years. Btw i own CX5 and just buy CX60. Trust me its worth it.

Great review thank you

Love everything about it EXCEPT the suede dash. IMHO, they should have kept the same material,as seats/door panel.

Touchscreen has proven to be a major distraction on the roads ...inexperienced young drivers for sure .

Great work! Fantastic review.

What a video, amazing attention to details, great job! You just got a new subscriber! Quick question, I am based in Europe and I'm interested in buying CX-60. Is there any difference between CX 60 in Europe and CX 70 in USA? I'm curious to know whether everything you mentioned in the video is also valid for CX 60. Cheers!

Always loved Mazdas. Just wished that they used more durable/thicker paint.

Great show 👏👏👏

Hey David, thanks for the great video! I watched the breakdown by “The car care nut” and he mentioned there’s too much going on with the cx90 for longevity and the mhev transmission issues. Thanks!

No digital dash screen is a bit disappointing but otherwise, looks very nice.

I wish Mazda could sell their truck here! And it’s way better than the old Ford Ranger/Mazda truck they sold.

I am a big Mazda fan,I I own CX 30 and I love that car. It drives amazingly and it’s been super reliable. However, I’m a bit skeptical towards the new generation Mazda. I got a chance to test drive CX 90 and I felt the transmission is not tuned well it was hunting for gears and it did not give me the best driving feel. I’m still not sure about in-line six and how that’s gonna work out for them in the future and I am definitely not a fan of the look of the front of the vehicle for the new generation. I think the old one looks better, especially CX 50. They have done such a fantastic job with their four-cylinder engines and six speed automatic transmissions so they set high standards for themselves.

I love what Mazda have been building in recent years but why are they confusing us with different names? In the UK we have the CX-60 with the CX-80 due to be on sale this Autumn/Fall. Is the CX-80 just a different badged CX-90, CX 70? I’m confused.

Very helpful care review indeed. Very specific about details. Keep it up

Mazda are very much leaning on Lexus level of quality and even luxury, especially in the interior, I’ve sat in some Mazdas and boy they feel like they are more expensive than the price tag says

David - What are the two other CX-70/90 colors besides Soul Red that have the ultra-small flakes in the metallic paint? Thank you.

Impressed with Mazda. Almsot as quiet and smooth as Lexus RX350 and ES350/300h. The Mazda3 2019 is so good. Would you say the CX-70 is better at controlling nvh, quietness and engine vibrations vs RX350 and 350h? The I6 is likely smoother than any Lexus 2.4 turbo, 2.5 hybrid 4 cyl, 3.5 V6, 4.6 and 5.7 V8? 😮

I think in Australia its called CX60. The suspension is so terrible here. Mazda is providing a recall to change the suspension but apparently even then, the ride quality is rough, tough and bumpy. Also negative feedback on the transmission. It basically flopped and only 500 units were sold. Thry already dropped 20 grand in price. Ive seen the GT spec go from around 75K driveaway to 54K driveaway. Such a shame. The CX9 drives the smoothest. However, its a little on the dated side nowadays. I'd still choose the CX5 or the CX9 over the the CX60 CX70

I guess no one reads the significant problems in CX-90 forums that CX-70 owners are just now experiencing. Too bad. I was eyeing CX-70. Coming from an owner of 2017 and 2024 CX-5.

I watched your comments for many years...I consider you the best of everyone that surveys cars especially since you are explaining 'fairly' from the engineering perspective keep it on ! thanks PS: did Mazda fixed the transmission issues on CX-90 ? or just on CX-70 as far as of my comments on June28,2024

How does this compare to the Acura RDX ?

Just having trouble deciding on the MHEV or PHEV... Is the PHEV a less effective hybrid when the plug-in battery is depleted?

❤❤❤ove the design!!!

Touch panels are always fingerprinted up. Prefer buttons and just don't need all the screen features. Also, I wish the moon roof was completely optional. Very expensive include for those of us that don't use and don't want it.

Awesome attention to detail which you want in a watch or house or art but this a disposable and quickly depreciating product that rusts and dies. Is it comfortable and reliable and safe is all that counts.

Son has a CX-5, been perfect. I drove a new CX-70 today, wonderful car BUT I wish they would supply more supportive seats, especially driver. I found them too small with not enough side support and no option for thigh extender.(not a big guy). If not for that, I would be sold.

I understand Mazda's decision to not make it a full touch screen infotainment. I hate touch screens when driving (even at low speeds), because I never succeed in what I want to do; I always hit something else because of bouncing and whatnot. Once you give people the capability, they will abuse it: they will always try to touch the screen while driving (although that is not what Mazda wants). People will always do what's convenient for them, while driving. Mazda commercials only highlight your emotions when you drive a Mazda. Thanks to you, you point out to common people how Mazda makes a superior vehicle, by measuring panel gaps. It's not only that they are < 3mm, but consistently 2.8mm everywhere! Seriously, Mazda should have a commercial with you in it! I drive a Tesla Model Y, but manufacturing quality is nowhere close to Mazda's. Panel gaps are huge, and hard plastic everywhere. Cheap materials. My next vehicle will be a Mazda (but which one?). I love them all. Consumers buy cars through habits. They only look at Hondas and Toyotas because they have only heard about them. These (esp. Toyotas) are appliances. They will get you from A to B, no problem. (Granted, they have fewer problems and are reliable.) But cars are made to be driven, not to make toasts. Mazdas are very reliable, and consistently get the highest safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Mazda is the complete car company; they do everything well from top to bottom, inside out. They don't skimp on anything.

Can you have CX70 with captain seat in rear?

I love this car and just got it… but Mazda and the back seat rattle when going 20 mph is driving me insane and I’m about to do a lease swap…

Thanks for this review!! We have a 2024 CX-50 GT-Turbo that I think we are trading in for a Signature Series CX-70….

Mazda has improved a lot especially in design. But the flagship cx90 doesn’t look sophisticated from the outside it’s too simple looks ordinary. They should work on having more glamorous headlights and taillights. The interior design is great.

Mazda has done a major overhaul since the 00s. You can still see beaters from early 00s, and survivors from 90s.

The turbo s version is beautiful 😭

Where is the CX-70/90 manufactured? Which country?

Good video.

How's the drive compared to Alfa Romeo Stelvio ?

Excellent

Are the fake vents hidden gems too? Gimme a break.

Beautiful car

Beautiful….❤

Hi David. In the next year i'll change my F-150 for a RAV4 hybrid 2025. Can you tell me if there is some change to the suv and if some new colors are expected. Thank you for your time.

Too bad the incompetent dealerships will suck the joy right out of your purchase within the first or second service. LOVE Mazda products, zero faith in the dealerships after sales service.

Disappointed there's no exhaust to compliment the inline6. It would also help the rear appearance. My cx 50 has a exhaust but not this ? Maybe Mazda can offer a sport package with exhaust tips, a bit more power with some minor brake upgrades? Please Mazda 🙏

Merci!

I've had American, German, and Japanese cars, currently driving a Nissan, VW, and a Bentley. When you say Mazda is the best in... X Y Z - compared to what? What factors? Comparing a Mazda to a Lexus is quite bold. IMO the shortcomings in Mazda include: the body steel sheets are not zink-coated, thus expect structure or body rust to appear within 5 yrs (regardless of the crafted paint particles, even worse when u have body repair), body sheets are thin like soda can walls, interior sound insulation is among the worst, interior plastics are on the medium level, multimedia screen is medium resolution. Looks-wise they are either intersting or even beautiful, no doubt. When reviewing, instead of being superficial, why not be more objective?

if they got rid of that screen sitting on top of the dash and integrated it to the console angled toward the driver, it sould be way better. thank god it doesnt have the plastic molding on the exterior like its siblings.