SUVs have risen in popularity over the past decade, with more and more consumers gravitating toward their spacious interiors and sleek, adventurous exteriors. They're the most popular vehicle on the market, with their sales eclipsing sedans. As the SUV trend continues to grow, automakers are constantly innovating and introducing new models to appeal to a broader range of consumers.
Mazda has always been ahead of the curve and has embraced this SUV craze with open arms. The Japanese automaker offers an assortment of versatile and stylish SUVs, including the highly acclaimed CX-5 and CX-9 models, and they are looking to add a few more to its lineup. In 2024, Mazda plans to release a series of three all-new SUVs, one of which is the midsize CX-70. Here's a quick overview of what to expect from this hotly anticipated SUV.
Powertrain, Transmission, and Performance
2024 Mazda CX-70
Thanks to the Mazda CX-60, we at least have a good idea of what the CX-70 will have under the hood. Mazda's plug-in hybrid powertrain will likely be making its way over to the CX-70, which means it'll have a 2.5-liter inline-four engine paired with electric motors. This setup will probably give the CX-70 a combined output of around 323 horsepower and plug-in capabilities, allowing it to travel for up to 39 miles on electric power alone.
In addition to the plug-in hybrid, you'll also have the option for an inline-six gasoline engine with a 48-volt hybrid system. This powertrain will likely offer around 300 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful options in the CX-70 lineup. As for the transmission, Mazda is ditching its aging SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed unit so that both engines will lay down power through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Featuring a longitudinal engine layout and standard all-wheel drive, the CX-70 will have no trouble getting around even in the most challenging conditions. Since the CX-60 plug-in hybrid takes approximately 5.8 seconds to reach 60 mph, expect a zero to 60 time in the mid-six second range. Thanks to its high ground clearance and all-wheel drive system, you'll enjoy plenty of off-road capability.
Interior Design and Cargo Capacity
While we have yet to learn a lot about the CX-70's interior, we expect it to be a spacious and comfortable place to spend time on long road trips. The CX-70 will probably have a wider body than the CX-60, giving you seating for five adults with plenty of head and legroom. If the CX-60 is any indication, the CX-70 will have a sleek and modern interior design with high-quality materials throughout, including wood trim, Nappa leather, and woven textiles, adding a touch of luxury.
The CX-70 will most likely have a similar cargo capacity to the CX-60. With all the seats in place, there are around 20 cubic feet of space to work with, which can expand to 61 cubic feet by folding down the second row. A hands-free tailgate will also come standard, making it easy to load and unload cargo even when your hands are full.
Infotainment and Connectivity
It's safe to say that the CX-70 will come with an infotainment system as large as 12.3 inches, similar to the CX-60. This massive infotainment screen will be the centerpiece of the CX-70's dashboard and will come with all the latest features and connectivity options. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will come standard, allowing you to integrate your smartphone with the infotainment system seamlessly.
Mazda's new infotainment system is one of the best on the market with its sleek and intuitive design. It's easy to use, and navigation is a breeze thanks to the large screen. In addition to the infotainment system, the CX-70 will also come with a head-up display, keeping important information such as speed and navigation directions in your line of sight.
Exterior Design
The CX-70's exterior design draws inspiration from several of Mazda's existing SUVs. We anticipate the same KODO design language, but we expect some changes will differentiate the all-new CX-70 from previous models. For one thing, the CX-70 is much larger than the CX-50 and CX-30, so it'll be interesting to see how Mazda differentiates them.
In recent sightings, it looks like the CX-70's front fascia has a thinner grille and slimmer LED headlights. It seems the SUV will also have a set of large, 17-inch wheels and what appears to be a dual exhaust setup. We can also expect the CX-70 to be sleek and stylish, with two colors on the body and roof rails for a more premium look.
Safety Features and Driver Assists
As with all new Mazda cars, the CX-70 will have a long list of driver assists and safety features. Blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist will all come standard, as will a full suite of airbags.
The CX-70 will have no trouble passing crash tests with flying colors thanks to its rigid body construction. And with its all-wheel drive system, the CX-70 will have no problem maintaining traction regardless of road conditions.
Price and Availability
We expect to see the Mazda CX-70 in early 2024 with an estimated starting MSRP of around $30,000 for the base model. The Select, Preferred, and Premium models will be slightly higher priced by a couple of thousand dollars. As for the top-of-the-line models—either the "Premium Plus" or the "Signature" — expect to spend around $50,000. That's a bit more expensive than the CX-60, but considering its increased size and power, the CX-70 is still a relative bargain.
All in all, the 2024 Mazda CX-70 is shaping up to be an impressive SUV that checks all the boxes. With a spacious interior, a long list of standard features, and a starting price just above $30,000, the CX-70 will surely be a hit with SUV shoppers.
North End Mazda is your go-to destination for all things Mazda, so be sure to check us out when the CX-70 hits dealerships in early 2024. In the meantime, browse our extensive inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles and take advantage of our competitive financing rates. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. We're always happy to help.