2027 Mazda CX-70 Hybrid: A Detailed Review
Experience Luxury, Power, and Efficiency in the 2027 Mazda CX-70 Hybrid
A Refined Mid-Size Hybrid SUV
Mazda's latest offering, the CX-70 Hybrid, closely mirrors the successful CX-90 Hybrid in its sophisticated design and premium materials, but it distinguishes itself with a dedicated two-row, five-seat layout. This approach caters to those who prioritize spaciousness for five occupants and ample cargo volume over a third row. The vehicle's interior boasts an elegant aesthetic and high-quality finishes, contributing to an overall upscale feel that sets it apart in its class. From its sleek exterior lines to the meticulously crafted cabin, the CX-70 Hybrid exudes a sense of refined luxury, making it a visually appealing and comfortable choice.
Power and Efficiency Under the Hood
At the heart of the CX-70 Hybrid is a potent 323-horsepower plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. This system combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a blend of strong acceleration and impressive fuel economy. It offers a substantial electric-only driving range of up to 25 miles on a single charge, ideal for daily commutes. Power is managed through a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive coming standard for enhanced traction and stability. While the powertrain generally performs admirably, some transitions between electric and gasoline power could be more seamless compared to rivals, yet its overall performance remains competitive.
Key Highlights and Market Positioning
Despite being a relatively new addition to Mazda's lineup, the CX-70 Hybrid makes a strong impression with its luxurious attributes and efficient powertrain. Although it entered the market following the redesigned Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, which some consider a new style leader, the CX-70 Hybrid continues to offer a compelling package. It successfully combines the practicality of a family crossover with the refined driving dynamics and premium features typically associated with higher-end vehicles. Its focus on a two-row configuration allows for extensive cargo space, nearly matching its larger CX-90 counterpart when the latter's third row is stowed.
Unchanged Excellence for the 2027 Model Year
As the Mazda CX-70 Hybrid progresses into its third model year, following its debut in 2025, no major alterations are anticipated for the 2027 iteration. This consistency highlights the model's strong foundational design and performance, assuring buyers that the critically acclaimed features and capabilities will carry over without significant changes.
Thoughtful Trim Options and Value Proposition
The CX-70 Hybrid is available in two well-appointed trim levels: Select Choice and Select Choice Premium. For those seeking excellent value without compromising on essential features, the Select Choice trim is highly recommended. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of desirable amenities, including 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate for convenient access, rain-sensing windshield wipers for improved visibility, and automatic high-beam headlamps for enhanced safety during nighttime driving. These features ensure a comfortable, convenient, and safe driving experience right from the entry-level.
Dynamic Performance and Advanced Powertrain
Powering the CX-70 Hybrid is the same advanced plug-in hybrid system found in the CX-90 Hybrid, offering a combined output of 323 horsepower. This system comprises a four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission, sending power to all four wheels. This configuration provides a lively driving experience suitable for both urban and highway conditions. While the system delivers ample power, the integration of the electric motor with the traditional transmission can result in less fluid transitions compared to some competitors. Nevertheless, the CX-70 Hybrid offers agile handling and a notable electric-only driving range, contributing to an engaging and efficient ride.
Rapid Acceleration Capabilities
The CX-70 Hybrid demonstrates impressive acceleration, matching its CX-90 sibling by achieving 0 to 60 mph in a swift 5.9 seconds. This performance figure is a testament to its potent hybrid powertrain, making it half a second quicker than the non-hybrid CX-90. Such acceleration positions the CX-70 Hybrid as a spirited performer in its class, offering quick response and confident merging capabilities.
Robust Towing Capabilities
The Mazda CX-70 Hybrid is engineered for practicality, offering a maximum towing capacity of 3500 pounds. To further enhance its utility, Mazda provides an optional Essential Tow package across all trim levels. This package includes a trailer hitch and wiring harness, enabling owners to easily connect and tow a variety of loads, from small trailers to recreational equipment.
Efficient Range and Convenient Charging
Equipped with a 17.8-kWh battery pack, the CX-70 Hybrid boasts an EPA-estimated electric driving range of 25 miles on a full charge. Recharging the battery is efficient, with the ability to go from 20% to 80% charge in approximately 90 minutes when utilizing a 240-volt connection. This offers convenient electric mobility for short trips and daily errands, reducing reliance on gasoline.
Impressive Fuel Economy Ratings
The EPA has rated the CX-70 Hybrid's fuel economy at 24 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and a combined 25 mpg, with a combined MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) of 56. These figures underscore the vehicle's efficiency, positioning it favorably against its non-hybrid counterparts, which show similar combined MPG ratings. While real-world highway fuel economy tests are pending, these estimates suggest a cost-effective ownership experience.
Luxurious and Versatile Interior
The interior of the CX-70 Hybrid echoes the refined design of the CX-90 Hybrid, offering a spacious and comfortable environment for five passengers. The primary distinction lies in the absence of a third-row seat, which significantly expands cargo space. The cabin features an upscale and sporty design, further enhanced by the availability of optional red leather upholstery. While the front two rows provide ample room, the second row offers comfort but may not be as expansive as in some larger competitors like the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid or Hyundai Palisade Hybrid. Nevertheless, the CX-70 Hybrid excels in cargo versatility, providing 40 cubic feet behind the second row and a generous 75 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, closely matching the CX-90's cargo capacity with its third row stowed.
Advanced Infotainment and Seamless Connectivity
The CX-70 Hybrid features a prominent 12.3-inch infotainment display seamlessly integrated into the dashboard. This system is primarily controlled via a rotary dial on the center console. While this tactile interface offers a degree of familiarity and precision, it may require some adaptation for users accustomed to touchscreen-centric systems. Standard connectivity includes Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, ensuring modern smartphone integration. Complementing these features are a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a high-fidelity 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, creating an immersive and connected driving experience.
Comprehensive Safety and Driver-Assistance Technologies
Safety is paramount in the CX-70 Hybrid, which comes standard with Mazda's i-Activsense suite of driver-assistance features. This comprehensive package includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring to enhance awareness, and adaptive cruise control for relaxed highway driving. These technologies work in concert to provide a safer driving experience, actively assisting the driver in various road conditions and helping to mitigate potential hazards. For detailed crash-test performance, information can be found on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Details
Mazda provides a solid warranty plan for new CX-70 Hybrid owners, covering three years or 36,000 miles for the limited warranty and five years or 60,000 miles for the powertrain. However, unlike some competitors such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Mazda does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance. This is a factor for potential buyers to consider when evaluating long-term ownership costs.
Performance Metrics and Detailed Specifications
Each year, rigorous instrumented testing procedures are applied to hundreds of vehicles to gather precise performance data. For the 2027 CX-70 Hybrid, these tests confirm its robust capabilities and efficiency. The specifications highlight a front-engine, front-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration for this five-passenger, four-door wagon. Key performance metrics include a 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.9 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 14.4 seconds at 97 mph. Braking from 70 mph to 0 mph is achieved in 171 feet, and the vehicle exhibits capable roadholding with 0.82 g on the 300-ft skidpad. These figures underscore the CX-70 Hybrid's blend of power, agility, and safety.