2025 Mazda CX-70 Turbo S Premium Review - A Poor Man's BMW X5?

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 brings you everything you loved about the CX-90 but with one less row of seats, a sleeker exterior, and some minor revisions to the performance and transmission. By being both a mainstream and luxury crossover, Mazda is in a great spot with the CX-70 Turbo S Premium, where it won't break the bank but also doesn't feel cheap and underwhelming.
Huge thank you to Ira Mazda of Westwood for providing the Mazda CX-70 Turbo S Premium for this review.
www.iramazda.com/
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[@tonelocrian]

Let's STOP using terms like 'POOR MAN's' BMW. Mazda has proven itself to be way more reliable than BMW for decades. How about 'SMART MAN's' BMW ?

[@sherif.moussa]

Well said 👍🏻 👏🏻

[@christianbryant5617]

PREACH!! Mazda has had the same portfolio and self positioning for going on twenty years now! People assume too much of the brand because of its hardships with Ford, but that doesn’t define the entire company or its heritage. Mazda does its own thing obviously and isn’t interested in being anything “esque.” Mazda is just Mazda

[@impsrule60]

Agreed. I first noticed Mazda when I bought a 2016 CX-9 Signature. Deciding it was time to treat myself to a luxury car, I was test-driving new Audi Q5's and Q7's, when a pal in my vintage car club was raving about the new CX-9. I'd never paid the slightest bit of attention to Mazda but, almost for a lark, I thought I'd test drive one. The CX-9's were certainly attractive, but nothing prepared me for that test drive: solid build quality; planted, composed handling; 'punchy'...such a nicely appointed interior. I couldn't believe it. I went back two more times to the respective Audi and Mazda dealers thinking I must be mistaken. Sure, when you reach 70-80 mph, the Audi keeps on going. But... There's no Autobahn here. Everything that an SUV is supposed to do on U.S. roads the CX-9 did as well as the Audi - for many thousands of dollars less. ...and all of that low-end torque! So, instead of an Audi, I bought a CX-9 ...and with the savings, I acquired a second vintage car! I've been a fan ever since. Just picked up my 4th Mazda at the end of April - a 2024 CX-90 PHEV Premium + , and couldn't be happier. It's a worthy successor to the CX-9!

[@thereisnospoon6281]

Totally agree!

[@Cooper1]

How ‘bout we just don’t get offended at stuff that was meant lightheartedly.

[@Rodghost1]

Nice review. I bought a Soul Red CX70 Turbo S Premium Plus yesterday. I don't care if it wears a Mazda Badge. I care if it's a reliable, fun and well built SUV and I think it is all three. After being let down by two Genesis GV70 in 14 months (both total disasters), I'm looking forward to Mazda reliability!

[@jstrig]

I'll probably be purchasing a CX-70 later this year. The soul red metallic is my favorite color, but I'm concerned about the durability of that color. Just heard bad things

[@futuremobile1914]

Which state? Here in NYC, it looks like the first batch will be arriving in July

[@Chiroman527]

Congrats on your selection. I agree with it. Premium Plus with a Turbo S . Color selections are subjective of course. I have a 22 MDX Advance lease coming due in 2 months (8/24) with an option to buy it at $38,500 - with only 21K miles on it, so that's very tempting. But this Mazda is on my short list for other considerations. The CX -70 has far more HP /Torque numbers with better MPGs than my Non Type S MDX. And even though the new 25 MDX has finally went to a TouchScreen vs their Touich Pad, it's about $5 K more in price. I'll test drive one before making my decision, however, the buyout does make sense. Then I will own it and can do something in the near future. From what I can determine, my MDX with low mileage, should command about $45 -$48 K on a dealer's Used Car Lot.

[@impsrule60]

Great review! I took delivery of my CX-90 PHEV Premium+ just over a month ago and concur with your assessment. The incentives on the PHEV (which as-of January 2024 are given as a discount on the front-end, instead of waiting for a tax refund) are fantastic. I'm able to do my 12-mile round-trip commute to work on all electric, plus stop at the grocery en route home. Thus, six weeks-in, I've barely used a tank and a half of gas. Mind you, that includes lots of idling and mode-searching as I explore the various features, as well as a 100-mile DC-Baltimore round-trip. Even considering the above, this large vehicle is averaging 43 mpg(!). As a 'DINK' couple that doesn't regularly 'need' a three-row, I waited to trade-in my '22 CX-5 Turbo Sg until the CX-70 was announced. But when I saw that it was essentially a CX-90 with blackout 'Sport' trim, I decided to go with the 90. I personally prefer the chrome, and we'll keep the 3rd row folded till family comes to visit. Meanwhile, the 'Artisan Red' hue literally has had passersby walking backwards and doing double takes. With white Napa leather, pano roof, digital gages, etc, it's got everything I was hoping for since awaiting the 'refresh' of my 2016 CX-9 Sg, the vehicle that first made me fall in love with Mazda. Well done.

[@Rodghost1]

@@jstrig I'm not concerned about the color at all. I have friends who own this color and none of them have had any issues. Besides, I'm OCD and once a week, I use NexGen Ceramic Detail Spray on my cars, which puts a very durable coat of protection on the paint. If people don't take care of the paint on a car, any car can have paint issues, tbh.

[@matthewmorgan5680]

Thank you for a review of this car that wasn’t full of passive aggressive references to the CX-90. I could tell from your facial expressions that you were genuinely enjoying driving that car. I’ve only driven Mazdas for the past almost decade and honestly, when I drive other vehicles I find them boring and often unpleasant when compared to my Mazdas. I love that Mazda is making luxury more affordable. I honestly feel like the CX-70 and 90 are the cars to beat in this segment. I realize the Telluride usually gets all the accolades because of its value proposition, but it’s not as pleasant to drive and doesn’t have that luxury vibe that the Mazdas have.

[@m3s69ll]

poor man's X5? probably better than X5 to be honest...

[@davidfrost9415]

I mean its not quite there with the b58 and the zf 8speed but it is close indeed.

[@tristantownsend64]

The poor man’s part is giving classist/elitist

[@pjsneeringer5942]

Nailed it

[@classiccorvettesmusclecars5846]

Looks nice but I’ll stick with my CX9.. Proven reliable drivetrain, no awful stop/start and hybrid.

[@beccab2522]

Ty for the informative video. 👍 My husband and I just bought a CX-90 Turbo S Premium plus in red over the wknd. Very nice vehicle. I was told that Mazda and Toyota share some major parts within the vehicle. Gave me some peace of mind and our dealership gave us 25 yr warranty as well. Definitely need to practice backing up in our garage, but overall satisfied with our purchase.

[@bayouboy8644]

May I ask which dealer. ?? I am looking to buy one and would love a 25 yr warranty. Respectfully.

[@beccab2522]

Mazda of Fresno

[@mohamedomar2367]

My favorite car brand. Its reliable, great performance and good looks too

[@robertwilliam9558]

This was an excellent review. Awesome SUV

[@milemilitinovic3724]

BMW who ? MAZDA has become a beast, better then any other German car !!! And the price tag is absolutely more then affordable, imagine if this was a BMW , Merc , Audi : 100-150.000€ price tag for sure ! You can buy these new for 50,000€

[@deejaylastimosa2479]

debating if i have to get this or the Lexus NX … please help. which one is better

[@kurtgrundel4045]

The CX5 is the NX competitor and is far more fun to drive the CX5

[@deejaylastimosa2479]

@@kurtgrundel4045 really . i test drive both . and both are great .

[@christianbryant5617]

Anything Mazda will have better handling and performance. Lexus usually gives you more features for your money and certain luxury touches, but Mazda is of a more “aesthetic” quality and nature. NX competes with the CX5.. TX would be best if you’re wanting a Lexus of CX70 size

[@deejaylastimosa2479]

@@christianbryant5617 I went for Lexus. 🙈 i just love the interior with 14.5 inches display infotainment

[@christianbryant5617]

@@deejaylastimosa2479 oh nice. Congratulations

[@dioralcide8490]

Gorgeous SUV , but this should be a CX90 Trim.

[@ITGuy1970]

If you can only afford $60k, you're broke? Mazda stomps BMW in reliability and resale. Get real.

[@Ethanjbo135]

Great car. IMO Mazda needs to upgrade their seats. Look at offering 16 way adjustment on the driver and 10+ way on the passenger. The seats hold this back from being the luxury item it SHOULD be.

[@tonelocrian]

The new Toyota Crown Signia wagon will be a good competitor.

[@nitriq]

Mazda needed to push out more power to really compete. The Grand Highlander is quicker with their 4cyl

[@christianbryant5617]

If you’re referring to a specific video from SamCarLegion, I urge you to watch another video or look at times on Google. Ain’t no way Toyota will beat any Mazda product unless we’re talking a freaking Supra or sum shit lol. That was Mazda’s base engine also to make it worse. Base engine CX90 competes with base engines from the X5 and GLE.. I don’t mean to offend you in anyway either, I’m just assuming a great deal, as I watched said video.

[@fernandocavazos2761]

Poor man’s X5 or smart man ?

[@andrewstadeker7679]

They hit the nail on the updated exterior and interior trim upgrades, then they sabotage the entire CX 90 and delete the 3rd row then rename it. Such a disappointment. Mazda, we need the 2nd row bench in the highest trims for the CX 90 with the same trims of your so-called CX 70. I just went in the showroom 2 days ago only to leave frustrated because the styling of the CX 70 hits all the marks but doesn't fulfill the seat requirements. And use the max seating and upgrades for the highest trim levels for the CX90 PHEV for 2025!

[@peterc6197]

Poor man? They want $900+ a month on a lease. Not very cheap to me.

[@chrisa.8175]

Poor man are not able to afford these prices!! You should say upper middle class... i love the look of mazda.. but not at these prices..$$$ most cars today are outrageous prices

[@scooter5940]

That’s what happens with 25% inflation under Biden. A car that was $40k three years ago is now $50k. Prices are not going to lower, ever.

[@gre0dy]

Poor mans bmw x5 what a stupid title is that

[@45687984654]

Poor man BMW???? Whoever wrote this should be fired immediately.

[@sheldonduffy9442]

Why not a SMART man’s BMW?

[@freddurst4420]

SO A POOR MAN SPENDS $55K ON HIS CARS; this thing is expensive, what the fk has to do w/ a poor man?

[@KuyaArbee]

a more practical X5 :) without the worry of BMW............ ya know....

[@maxxbenzz7842]

You can get a 24 bmw x5 for around 60k if you look around. Might have 10k miles on it. Mazda is getting close to BMW Benz territory. Honestly I'd rather have the Mazda for the same price

[@manumehra929]

Beautiful car, whoever is buying this car great decision, every penny worth 👍🏻

[@christianbryant5617]

Since when is Mazda a “poor man’s” anything lol? Anytime Mazda is referenced or I see one on the road, I don’t think to myself that that driver must’ve settled lol.. brand image is tricky to capture in the American market, but the Mazda badge usually indicates a fine vehicle. Maybe this was titled like this because the CX70 is a bit less expensive than the BMW alternative? Wrong choice of words imo. Makes sense for all the Mazda fanboys to be mad in these comments haha. I agree w them

[@waywardstitch8604]

Your comments made me lol. Yesterday I parked my '21 cx5 gtr next to a gorgeous '24 cx90 and lingered a long while to enjoy the view, (and to fantasize about driving one 😄). I chose a mazda cx5 3 years ago because every reviewer mentioned the enjoyable "driving experience". It's my first mazda and I've been smiling ever since. I had never paid attention to mazdas before, but now that I drive one I notice every single mazda on the road, wondering if those other mazda drivers are having as much fun as I am. 🤗

[@scotters201]

The CX-70 is nicer than BMW X5..inside is off the rails on the CX70..interior is clear cut nicer than X5.I prefer the CX-70 exterior..to BMW..

[@franciscoruiz-delgado9811]

Good review and to the point I been looking at v6 suvs and there are not many like the passport but the back could be better the cx 70 coming to the dealer here so I will take a good look always a fan of mazda ❤😅

[@Antwalls92]

Mazda should be called the Japanese Volvo because they both have Scandinavian design

[@GregHall-v1n]

Good call

[@rajk9413]

There are plenty of poor men driving x5’s.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

I am always a fan of Mazda's & I will buy this.

[@nelsongarcia4398]

Mazda is my choice. Cx5 owner happy camper, looking forward for my cx70 in a near future.

[@jiaxinghan9982]

so people who can’t afford a BMW X5 is considered poor?

[@mikeyerke3920]

People who buy Mazdas are considered smart. 👍🏻

[@abholcombe93]

Mazda is a Precision Japanese Automaker that does its own thing. I think Mazdas feel so unique to the point of being exotic, which in my book is a GREAT thing! Go Mazda! BTW, I’m looking to purchase a CX-90. Mazda will definitely have better longevity than a BMW.

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

Great review & I will buy this car as my daily.

[@eddiew.6485]

Love this Video………I totally agree with the statement of getting over the fact that this is a “Mazda” and not a BMW, Acura, et all…….Snobbery at its finest! ITS A Mazda that has consistently put forward the notion that this car is indeed a drivers car, with the overall reliability of a vehicle in mind. Don’t get me wrong, those German/Japanese upscale products are beautiful vehicles, but buying this CX7O gives you more bang for your buck. Plus, the design team at Mazda (maybe out of California?) hit it out of the park! That Red interior is luxury with a sporty feel to it. Thanks again for this great, unbiased all-around vehicle. Keep them coming, Sir! Subscribed!

[@Antwalls92]

I wouldn't say the Mazda CX 70 is a fully luxury model, but I will say that it's near-luxury

[@Rodghost1]

I owned a Mercedes E450 with every option, then bought a Genesis GV70 Sport Prestige (horrible quality issues) and you may not say this a luxury model. But that would be a mistake. This CX70 Premium Plus is super luxurious. Sure, it has a Mazda, badge, but don't let that fool you.

[@jstrig]

Mazda calls their vehicles "Premium" which I think is accurate

[@christianbryant5617]

Mazda prefers to be referred to as “premium,” because performance is also in their portfolio. They don’t care for labels or appealing to a wide range of consumers.. Mazda is in their own world and doesn’t care much for labels or playing catchup to others. Premium is just fine for them because they know what they’re about and how their products make buyers feel

[@zzhong23]

Nice review, I wish it's a touchscreen even if not using apple carplay and Android auto.

[@iCallUpChuck]

A moderately spec'ed out X5 xDrive 40i is $70k. I do not think it is a brand snob thing, more a pricing decision. The CX-70 is nice.

[@Trucker2083]

A poor man ain't getting nowhere near this lol

[@TheRotorious13b]

A SMART man's BMW...😉

[@warrenbruhn5888]

Very nice looking station wagon. I wish there was a light or dark green 💚 metallic color. But no luck there.

[@Jamie_T_Hall]

Just took delivery of the turbo s premium yesterday i could have had the BMW this was better. I agree with the commenter who said smart mans BMW.

[@peterc6197]

Monthly payment?

[@davidkirkham6497]

I don’t like the “bulbous” rear!

[@briguyinsi]

I agree, it looks like a minivan from behind. I was on the fence w this car, and I really wanted it but the Jeep Grand Cherokees exterior and some others just look so much better. Granted, there are so many things I like, but I just can’t get over that behind.

[@jstrig]

@@briguyinsi People keep saying this, but it's the same design as every other Mazda rear end and nobody even notices

[@sheldonduffy9442]

One of the fairest reviews yet of a CX-70/90. Comparing it size wise to the RWD biased luxury competitors as opposed to mainstream vehicles like the Telluride, Pilot, Palisade etc.

[@zennoodle]

The verbage in this video is outstanding and I truly connected with everything you said. Poor man's X5? Well, if you get an X5 you're poor already. The CX-70 is both sensible and luxurious and a great contender for everything else I"m considering for 2025. Thanks again!

[@GI_Regulation]

Thats one hell of a ‘poor’ man who is looking to spend over $50K on a car…….

[@warrenbruhn5888]

Interesting description of where this vehicle fits in the spectrum of road oriented SUV's.

[@robertbercht9875]

Poor man’s BMW that’s better engineered and more reliable. We all know what BMW stands for. Big Money Waster.

[@gregholman2930]

If you're gonna get one of these, black is your only option, saw the white, didn't look as premium, the black make it stand out like it's in the class with the X-5.

[@Rodghost1]

Perhaps you meant to say, black is the only option for YOU? I bought mine in Soul Red Crystal Metalic and for me, it was the right option. Color is a personal decision choice and why manufacturers offer multiple color options inside and out.

[@melbournecyclingsegments7510]

are all the suspension and gearbox issues solved? the CX60 was recalled in australia earlier in 2024 to correct these issues

[@oliviamathis3417]

Nice car, however not really as sporty as a BMW and the tech could be a little better. My 4 cylinder CX-5 actually burned as much gas than my previous BMW, but great job Mazda. I must say they should not have made it this big. Mistake.

[@bigdaddy5150sh71]

Poor man's? The good one is 57k. Poor people buy $2500- 5k cars. Not 50k cars.. poor my a$$

[@guitarman7169]

It was like my Peugeot! Poor man's Mercedes. But, it was a piece of $hit!

[@Silvblade79]

A poor man’s bmw… what a ridiculous statement. What makes BMW so good. In recent years they just look uglier and less car and more of an appliance. Mazda may not have the long history of bmw but it should not be compared to others. It’s a class of its own.

[@geraldhenry7510]

...but can't get over the inside of the rear having cupholders for the 3rd row?

[@Rodghost1]

It actually DOESN'T have cup holders in the rear cargo area. Many thought it did, but it's just a cubby you can store things in. It's not designed for drinks as many have suggested.

[@MohamedShoeb-hz5re]

False stigma, Japanese quality is far superior to American and European mediocre cars

[@jmahoi8640]

The title of this review makes me mad. Its rude sir

[@viivcreations9161]

mazda needs to stick with sporty vehicles and create a luxury lineup separate because they cant just switch from one to the other just like that

[@alligatorpc]

Another shill, not a real review. Check the Mazda inventory...

[@jamesmanuel9938]

Why not just get a CX-90 and fold the seats down for more room.

[@joegraziadei7895]

You’re really gonna compare Mazda to BMW really it is a poor man’s BMW

[@saeednrzadeh4754]

I am big fan of Mazda and I own two Mazda, But please do not compare BMW B58 with 8 Speed ZF with any Mazda powertrain nor handling nor driving engagement nor anything else. Thank you

[@jjjj-xr4pc]

La grandeur de 5 pieds et 2 pouces de cette homme ne donne aucune noblesse a ce véhicule ha ha ha...

[@ktvo2024]

great review. very thorough. thanks!

[@firemanmunk1]

Disrespectful SMH I love the cx90 better than BMW

[@davidanderson-22]

Fantastic vehicle! Not doing quad exhaust ports on this sportier SUV was a missed opportunity.

[@sheldonduffy9442]

That WOULD be nice.

[@Rockytop8118]

I was and still am among the crop that felt let down on this thing. It's not as practical and sporty as hoped but it works for some people. I guess the lack of real differentiation to call it another model feels a bit disrespectful to their consumers. It's probably better for business and marketing but it lacks creativity and innovation. It is a big hauler and requires larger spaces to maneuver. Its a nice rig by itself and if it was released first or alongside the cx-90, probably no big deal to most but when you have a need to upsize your cx-5 but don't want a borderline full size car and want the new engine, there's just no option there at the moment. Hope the cx-5 hybrid gets a little roomier

[@davidcsoka4234]

Well… those who can buy this i think they aren’t that’s „poor“ 😅

[@joegraziadei7895]

I’m going with a Volkswagen atlas Cross sport SEL premium r line I’m going to save $6000 and have ambient lighting. Unlike this car that just lights up the footwells the atlas also has more features. The Mazda has more power 0 to 60 is only a second.😊

[@hskrgrad]

I have also been cross shopping these but am only seeing about $4k difference. $54k vs $58k but I guess it depends on where you are shopping. I like things about each vehicle but the ambient lighting isn’t that big of a deal to me and the cross sport interior seems very plastic and messy 🤷🏻‍♂️. Just my opinion though. Did you pull the trigger on the cross sport?

[@Ratiocinativefun]

😂blocking out the haters!

[@chrisa.8175]

Cx-90 $$ better

[@gio957]

BMW X5 is rockets, CX70 is not.

[@hskrgrad]

Base AWD X5 also starts at $68k. Add the “options” that should be standard on a vehicle like that and you reach into the mid 70’s. You should get more performance with that. Everyone keeps comparing the two because car reviewers feel the need to always have this vs mentality when what they really should be saying is you get a better interior with just as many features in a nice package for much less money than an X5. Mazda is going after Lexus, Infinity, and Acura….they just happen to be offering an interior that is as nice or nicer than the Germans. They should have done more for the sportiness of this model but for what it is Mazda has done a pretty good job. They did a good enough job that I have been cross shopping it with an MDX, Q5 sportback, and Atlas cross sport. Not sure if I will settle on it but they are in contention.

[@timothywackerle2374]

Why couldn’t they have done a better job designing the rear end? It looks like a minivan. That’s never a compliment. Otherwise, a gorgeous vehicle.