Some carmakers are all in when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs) while others prefer to offer as many fuel-efficient options as possible. Mazda appears to be in the latter camp, introducing the all-new 2025 CX-
70 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently tested the Premium Plus trim and as the name implies, this trim sits at the top of the CX-70 lineup and as such, comes loaded with fancy features and innovative technology.
The mid-size two-row crossover SUV squeezes between Mazda’s CX-50 and CX-90 models. A hybrid plug-in makes up one of seven available packages, including non-hybrid models, and helps stretch fuel economy. It can also tow up to 3,500 lbs.
True to its trim level, the test model came with maroon heated and cooled leather front seating, and heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, blind spot monitor, a leather dashboard with accent stitching, and a second-row that folded flat with the push of a button or remotely. The black handles on the exterior accented the Copper Metallic exterior nicely.
With two 12.3-inch displays enhancing the interior on the PHEV, the infotainment screen was a little plainer and the interface a little clunky, while the display on the instrument cluster was nicer to look at as well as informative.
Powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine matched to an electric motor with a 17.8-kWh battery pack, the PHEV powertrain produces a combined 323 horsepower and 369 lb.–ft. of torque (with the recommended premium gasoline). It’s matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission and adds drive modes—Sport, Off-Road, Towing and EV—for better performance.
The EPA estimated fuel economy on the CX-70 PHEV is an average of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) but grows to 56 mpg with the added 26 miles of electric range. It achieved 28.4 mpg on the test drive but without the electric range—the standard charging chord, usa
ble on a 120v outlet—was not included on the test model.
Oddly, the shift knob placed Park to the left which was a little counter intuitive. Normally Park sits at the top of the stack but that spot was taken by Reverse which may take a little getting used to, especially when parking.
Pricing for the 2025 CX-70 starts at $41,820. With a $450 charge for the exterior paint and extra features from the Plus package, the as-tested MSRP came to $59,275.
Sí: The CX-70 plug-in hybrid offers the convenience of an SUV with extra miles of electric range for better fuel economy and a handsome design inside and out.
No: The infotainment system, especially setting presets, wasn’t intuitive.
d, Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace tire placard label, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin July 28, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler’s number for this recall is T37.