For some reason Australia is the only market to get all four Mazda cathedral-like ‘Large
Architecture’ SUVs – the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and CX-90. Indeed, Oz stands alone as
the only right-hand drive market in the world to get the CX-70.
The CX-70 is basically a CX-90 with two rows of seats rather than three and comes only
in two trims – GT and Azami – with an optional SP Package and the G50e inline six-
cylinder petrol engine.
Introduced in 2024 as a sportier, two-row alternative to the CX-90, it features a
spacious, high-quality cabin, advanced driver-assistance systems and a 12.3-inch
infotainment display.
Powered by inline-six petrol or diesel engines with mild-hybrid support and rear-biased
all-wheel drive, it targets buyers seeking refinement, performance and space without a
third row.
On test was the Mazda CX-70 Azami D50e AWD, selling for $80,020. Like all Mazdas,
the CX-70 is covered by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, backed up by five
years of roadside assistance.
STYLING
Following Mazda’s philosophy of ‘Koda – soul of motion’ the CX-70 has been designed
in the context of ‘dignified performance’, yet imbued with sporty styling, plenty of space
and high levels of cabin luxury.
This is highlighted by a powerful bumper shape and striking black accents, while
burgundy cabin inserts are unique to the CX-70 and illustrate an exceptional level of
craftsmanship.
INTERIOR
The CX-70 is a five-seat version of the ‘wide-body’ CX-90 seven-seater, which has been
on sale locally now for two years. Brimming with Takumi craftmanship in the cabin, the
CX-70 is Mazda Australia’s flagship two-row SUV.
While sharing their external footprints, cabin interiors are similar. The main difference is
that the CX-70 has no third row of seating, making for a larger boot (598 litres) with all
the seats upright. Drop the second row electrically and it’s 2015 litres.
A flat floor extends to the rear hatch. There are three underfloor storage areas with easy
access to items regularly in use. A space saver spare is on hand.
Azami customers can also opt for an SP Package comprising tan Nappa leather seat
trim, suede finish dash panel and two-tone steering wheel.
INFOTAINMENT
Seen it all before: most of it, anyway. There’s a 12.3-inch full colour widescreen display,
plus 12.3-inch TFT multi-information meter in front of the driver. No fiddling with fingers
on the screen. It’s all controlled by a centre-console knob and adjacent buttons. So easy
to operate while on the move.
Mazda Connected Services integrates with the MyMazda app offering features such as
vehicle status and health, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, remote lock, flashing lights, vehicle
location and emergency SOS.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The turbocharged petrol engine, Mazda’s most powerful mass-production powerplant,
serves up 254kW, is well equipped with a range of Mazda’s latest safety and 500Nm,
while the test car’s 187kW diesel unit delivers up to 550Nm as low as 1500rpm.
Each engine uses a 48-volt mild hybrid system, so there’s no EV-only travelling as with
a Toyota or Hyundai hybrid. This little electric boost supports the engine when idling or
in low-speed ranges. Economy gains are skinny, the maker claiming 8.1 litres to 100
kilometres on the combined urban/highway cycle.
SAFETY
The CX-70 is equipped with a range of safety technology, including lane keep assist,
blind spot monitoring, with vehicle exit alert. Smart brake support works when turning
across traffic, for pedestrian and cycle detection and when reversing and for rear
crossing. Eight airbags make up the passive protection.
DRIVING
‘Refined performance’ says the maker in its introduction to the MY26 CX-70 SUV. I
agree, following a stint with the Azami diesel, which showed itself to be completely
composed on Australia’s bitumen.
On some uneven and tight twisty going there was minimum body roll, and little noise
intrusion into the cabin from either the engine or road surface.
Rear-leaning i-Activ all-wheel drive is standard across the range, helping the
suspension to come up with an engaging drive. A slim turning circle of 11.8m was a
parking bonus. However, wonky reversing camera image and inaccurate dynamic
guidelines fell short.
New to Mazda is Unresponsive Driver Support as part of Cruising and Traffic Support. If
the system detects shut eyes or lengthy distraction it will alert the drive in stages. If no
action is taken, the vehicle is able to slow and come to stop to avoid an accident.
SUMMARY
Stuttering sales of large SUVs have contributed to recent price cuts to the CX-70, which
can only add to the appeal of this versatile vehicle.
RATINGS
Looks – 7
Performance – 6
Safety – 7
Thirst – 6
Practicality – 7
Comfort – 6
Tech – 7
Value – 8
AT A GLANCE
MODEL LINE-UP
Mazda CX-70 GT G50e AWD: $73,020
Mazda CX-70 GT D50e AWD: $73,020
Mazda CX-70 Azami G50e AWD: $80,020
Azami D50e AWD: $80,020
Azami SP G50e AWD: $83,520
Azami SP D50e AWD: $83,520
These prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your local
Mazda dealer for drive-away prices.
SPECIFICATIONS (Mazda CX-70 Azami 3.3-litre 6-cyl turbodiesel, 48V mild hybrid, 8sp
auto, AWD, SUV)
ENGINE
Capacity: 3283cc
Configuration: six cylinders inline
Maximum power 187kW @ 5000rpm
Maximum torque: 550Nm @ 3000rpm
Fuel type: Diesel
Combined fuel cycle: (ADR 81/02) 8.1L/100km
CO2 emissions: 189g/km
DRIVELINE: eight-speed automatic, AWD
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT, AND CAPACITIES
Length: 5120mm
Width: 1994mm
Height: 1745m
Wheelbase: 3120mm:
Turning circle: 11.8m
Kerb weight: 2198kg
Fuel tank: 74 litres
BRAKES
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Ventilated disc
STANDARD WARRANTY
Five years / unlimited kilometres
Roadside assist up to five years
