Is the 2025 Mazda CX-70 a BETTER luxury sport SUV than a Lexus RX 350?

FIRST DRIVE: The CX-70 is new from Mazda for 2025. This is a midsize 2-row SUV. On the outside you will find the Zircon Sand color, 21in wheels and black accents. On the inside you will be greeted by a 12.3in infotainmnet screen and digital gauge cluster, plus Nappa leather. Under the hood is a 3.3L turbocharged inline-6 mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Is the 2025 Mazda CX-70 a BETTER luxury sport SUV than a Lexus RX 350?
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videography: Lori Raiti 🎥

[@RaitisRides]

GOOD MORNING EVERYONE! Let me know how you feel about the CX-70 in the comments section! Also, don’t forget there is a NEW Honda vehicle review @ 9AM ET!

[@chrisgelo1425]

Okay, Joe, I am now leaning towards the 2025 Civic Hybrid. Makes sense to me since it's coming this summer, and it's right around the corner 😌

[@chrisgelo1425]

This Mazda CX70 is sharp, Joe, and love the painted fenders flares, with Zircon Sand color. I just wish they made the taillights a little different compared to the CX90.

[@RaitisRides]

@@chrisgelo1425hmmm 😂

[@RaitisRides]

@@chrisgelo1425that would have been a nice touch

[@robertwilliam9558]

Raiti, any jerkiness from the transmission? I've heard the software update fixed that.

[@Stanley112803]

Mazda is killing it with it design features.

[@RaitisRides]

You better believe it

[@roymartinhasudungan2287]

Just when most car makers go for smaller engine (4 or even 3 cyls) with turbo or electrified, Mazda pushes forward against the mainstream by enlarging their engines and put RWD on it. It is the car for petrol heads nowadays. good job mazda.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@introvert4everfreddy656]

Aub​@@RaitisRides

[@TfamSoprano]

too bad it’s only in a giant suv for moms and not in a sedan so it’s sorta wasted

[@DucaPro4X]

Sedans are a total waste. So are midsize or compact SUVs with 3rd row seats only options. Mazda is doing it right here offering space, style, performance and luxury at a great price … quality and reliability seems to be on par or better than most Japanese or German cars.

[@TfamSoprano]

@@DucaPro4X sedans and most SUVs are a waste? are you ok in the head? so every car is a waste? what is wrong with you?

[@ganzonomy]

Raiti + breakfast + actual ON THROTTLE that sounds like a car Happiness

[@RaitisRides]

The breakfast of champions!

[@johanjonsson]

Mazda is hands down the Japanese car manufacturer with the most appealing design.

[@balmainattitude]

lmao no

[@davidp2888]

No gloss black ✅ No touch screen ✅ Digging the color, Joe! This is a winner.

[@RaitisRides]

Great minds think a like!

[@aygeeninty771]

It is a touch screen

[@Lone-Wolf516]

its only a touchscreen with apple carplay enabled

[@aygeeninty771]

@@Lone-Wolf516 or Android Auto

[@24sevvin]

Looked at same spec at my local dealer… in person it is so much better than seeing it on video. The interior is amazing

[@FranciscoHernandez-dq7rf]

I’m looking to trade my scat for one of this 🥲 would hate to let go my manual scat but idk this suvs looks good

[@franciscoruiz-delgado9811]

I like the 2 rows not everyone needs a 3 rows I being looking for something like this for a long time ❤

[@omarcortes5754]

I'm really liking this CX 70. Turned into a really really good suv. Thanks Joe and Lori, you are awesome.

[@mickeybrumfield764]

Good to see a new 2-row mid-size cross-over. The mid-size cross-over market has gone a little overboard with 3 row crossovers that have questionable functionality. It does look good in the Zircon Sand as it did in the Melted Copper. Joe you did a great job of demonstrating the drivability of the Mazda there in Palm Springs on the twisty bits.

[@pengmagno7395]

The fact that Mazda is being compared to Lexus and BMW, both luxury brands, is a testament to its classy interiors and great handling! Great review Joe! Thanks Lori! I drive a 2019 CX5 Signature!

[@johnblackmouth]

This guy always cracks me up with what he comes up with in the storage compartments.

[@kishona69]

Raiti's Rides + Breakfast = Contentment

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for starting your day with us!

[@jerryhall1263]

I like that color so much I purchased the '24 CX-5 CE Turbo in that color. Very nice unique.

[@KeithL0761]

Bang for the buck, I’ll take the Mazda!

[@tombrown7577]

I'm loving that color and the fact it's a pure two row luxury with the turbo. I can see nyself in one!

[@amycole5093]

The control knob is totally fine- very easy to use. Beautiful car; I would go for the inline 6 in a heartbeat. My current Mazdas are still awesome though, so I think I I’ll wait for the next generation!

[@CCdion23]

According to my tattoo…. It’s the first drive of the CX70!!!!!!!

[@RaitisRides]

You are awesome l! Thanks for sharing the fun with me!

[@CCdion23]

@@RaitisRides keep up the hard work and allowing us to come along for the rides with you!!! 👊🏽

[@gt-c-]

* * * I am a Lexus guy, over 24 years with several upper level models bought. Happy all the time. All made in Japan! The problem with Lexus is that now they make cars outside of Japan...and this MATTERS A LOT! Japanese workmanship, quality, reliability can not be duplicated anywhere and that includes Canada! I have been looking at the 2025 Lexus RX 350 and this Mazda CX-70 for my wife. ........................ 4 cylinders vs. 6 cylinders in line............................................ ..........................2.4 liter vs. 3.3 liter.............................................................. ...... ...................275 HP vs. 340 HP.............................................................. ..........................192" L vs. 201 L ................................................................. ..........................Made in Japan vs. Made in Canada (what???)................. ....................AND THE WINNER IS WITHOUT ANY DOUBT...MAZDA CX-70.....!!! Ordering one for the wife * * *

[@trolleymctrollsen]

That’s easy to identify, you can tell if your Lexus is made in Japan if your VIN starts with a J. My 2016 NX is made in Japan and 8 years later, no major repairs other than the regular service and spark plug replacement. In other words, if it’s not a J, then walk away 😂 It maybe unpopular opinion, but comparing a Lexus to a Mazda is not apples to apples. Mazda may start upping and refining their features for more luxury, but to get those luxurious features ups the price point to $55k for a Mazda, when those features are mostly standard on a Lexus. Also, since you’re a Lexus guy you should know for a fact that Lexus quiet cabins, smooth ride quality, well thought of designs and logic, like the arm rest cup holders slide out or you have power seats in the back, and suspension lasts (granted you take car of it) while Mazda or most non luxury cars will give you a quiet cabin ride or smooth suspension during the first 2-3 years, and designs are just lacking - like it’s a good gesture but no follow through. And all for the same $55k price range, the details are what sets these two cars apart.

[@johnnow1]

Lexus cars are boring to drive.

[@gt-c-]

@@johnnow1 "boring" is something INDIVIDUAL...and this is NOT for you!

[@gt-c-]

@@trolleymctrollsen You contradict yourself. You say "If not made in Japan...walk away:. The 2025 RX 350 is made in Canada...this is why I walk away...simple! Yes, Lexus has a powerful name and image, but no longer the rest that it used to be there. Just look closer to the CX-70 then drive it when released, and you will understand better my initial comment. As Mazda evolved targeting upper clientele, Lexus put on the cruise control...Sad for Lexus.

[@edwardcramer8409]

LFG love the channel I am here in St Pete Florida love when you do local reviews!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your home town support!

[@dominickirkwood]

Joe and Lori and Steve keep up the good work real true and I love the video 👍

[@valdeck553]

Nice review, thanks. 👍🍻 One quick question about the engine: Does it have a timing chain or belt, and is it accessible from the front or from the back of the engine? TY

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

Amazing review Joe.

[@dmarr4941]

Thank you Joe and Lori for the great review. This Mazda looks amazing. I love my 2021 Mazda 6, but my next vehicle may be an SUV. This one looks promising.

[@jbuck162]

Great review! I'm curious as to how quiet and smooth the ride would be in comfort mode vs. the X5 or even a 350 GLE? It would be a nice comparison for long distance interstate hauls. Love your reviews!

[@freshlyfree]

Mazda makes good value interiors & fresh exterior designs & the bonus is they tend to be zippy & fun to drive (plus they're built well) but my guess is, you already knew that because you are the Car King : )

[@miked6523]

and more importantly, reliability

[@darrenandrews1979]

Incredible build quality in this vehicle. I’ve watched other videos showing how uniform the panel spacing alignment is across the entire vehicle. Great value for money.

[@darrengodbee3397]

Great review Joe I like the color only because of the black they dresssed this one up well definitely like it’s sporty feel the only thing I know about myself is I’d definitely get tired of the color guickly I had the first new body SL 500 when it came out in 2003 it was a designo color very similar to this color and in about 3 months my love of that color had died and at this moment I’m over black interior as well like the interior in this car

[@jumpjet897]

Great video Joe! How would you rate the reliability of Mazda compared to Toyota/Lexus? I read mixed reviews on internet. Just wanted to hear yours.

[@aram_sargsyan74]

surprised by the interior, great job mazda

[@RaitisRides]

Yeah they really nailed it!

[@HiAnthonyA]

$55k tho. Luxury car price. Mazda was once a brand the everyday person could afford

[@raymondgraber9629]

@@HiAnthonyA Starts at $40k.

[@christianbryant5617]

@@HiAnthonyAthat was only for a little bit tho when sales fell when Ford had majority of Mazda control.. before the early 00’s Mazda appealed to the same market as it does today, with iconic large sedans, not all based from Ford. Mazda has been doing the whole “up and down” thing since its inception which is kinda funny and quirky, but they’re just so nice and quick you gotta love em for what they make!

[@edwardfedotov7356]

Uhhhh you’re missing the point. This is a luxury SUV, therefore the price point is higher than the rest of the range. There is a CX-5 Turbo which is well under this price range if this is too dear, personally my CX-60 GT has been a fantastic car - much better than anything I could’ve got within this price range.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

Yes of course Joe & I thinking of buying this.

[@dcrijo]

Honestly I love the overall design of this one and to me it looks better in all colors..something about its design that stands out from the rest in all colors. It would be cool if they offered captain seats on 2 rows. I do agree about the rear...would be nice to see double exhaust tips. Great review as always!! Shout out to the camera guru!!

[@jakes5530]

Need a second row bench in a higher trim? Never going to use that 3rd row but like the size/space of this platform? Get a CX70. All other instances just get the CX90.

[@Bowhunters6go8xz6x]

Zoom Zoom, I remember those commercials and I still say it when looking at a Mazda - This Mazda CX-70 is just as nice as the Lexus or BMW SUV's of similar Tier Level and it seems pretty well loaded with technology including a HUD. Their SkyActive Engines are well made and you can run Premium or Regular Unleaded and the engine will detune to make less HP if you use the Regular Gas. Thankyou Joe, Lori and Steven for making these daily videos, even in the 100F heat !

[@9trf690]

Looks really nice, I just wish they would’ve kept the black rims from the production model!

[@9trf690]

Woke up extra early for this video today 😂🔥

[@wspears617]

I like this combination. Is it possible to show the upgrades from the dealer so i purchase the same but with an illuminsted door sills?

[@daynevickers1079]

Ooooh, an out-of--the-park home run for Mazda! Can't help but think what the 2025 Mazda 6 could do with the same powertrain. Thanks for the ride, Joe!

[@RaitisRides]

This think is fantastic Dayne! Thanks for letting me bring it to you!

[@DSuperman25]

Im not even in the market for a new ride, but I WANT this car. Nice review.

[@RaitisRides]

Trust me I feel the same way!

[@joshuapomp6657]

Hey Joe im trading in my zircon sand cx50 tpp for a black turbo s premium with the red interior! There's not diffence in the the turbo s premium and plus beside interior colors

[@chrisb7507]

Wish the CX-70 had some killer fog lights and some exhausts ( maybe dual on each side ) . I think those would be the finishing touch to make it looking more aggressive. My CX-5 has fog lights but it’s not the turbo or awd version but I don’t regret choosing this my CX-5 over a Honda civic hatchback. Test drove a brand new 2024 hatchback sport touring and it was rough..

[@ferencvad8251]

I love it how he builds up the excitement for the inside “it has still the same dimensions, but what matters is the inside where you have the changes”

[@RaitisRides]

You get more cargo space so it is not the same as the CX-90

[@nhlba3301]

It's gorgeous im digging the CX70 plus that gorgeous sand color all it needs is all blacks wheels and satin or gloss black Mazda cx 70 badges chrome delete 🔥🔥🔥👌🏽👌🏽

[@kickstand801]

love the colour!!!

[@Jcruzer70]

Great job as always, Joe! Dry desert heat or Florida swamp humidity? Which one are you gonna zonk more? 😜😜

[@Wbrooks01]

Love the 70. One thing I really wish they added was ambient lighting to really make it more luxurious. Have a 50 right now and really want this next.

[@brandonwhite9591]

They did a good job with this one. I love the color too

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you Brandon

[@DjdMenis]

Quick question sir. Did you notice any bucking or stuttering from the transmission in low gear. My CX 90 does that a lot. Dealer stated no fix for the CX 90 yet.

[@Hope-cn1tm]

Mazda owner and big fan of the infotainment.

[@elyse6688]

I freaking love this car. It would be perfect for my family of four. Kids are still young but out of car seats. Can’t wait until this comes to Australia

[@NOLJ]

I love this car already

[@danieltovar6151]

I'm waiting for them to be available at the dealership to trade in my 2019 rav4 limited

[@LuisGutierrez-pe9xx]

The interior is amazing very sporty SUV would like amazing with aftermarket wheels

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Love your cars video 📹 👌 ❤️ 😍 😀 👍

[@RaitisRides]

I really appreciate your great support!

[@Obi1-lj4de]

Can't wait to get this car

[@RaitisRides]

I think you will like it.

[@JBLynch]

"Peepers and creepers!" Laughed so hard at this!

[@benc4181]

Why does it have cup holders in the cargo area?

[@wardellward]

I’m diggin that color

[@RaitisRides]

It really works well

[@imranchishti5457]

love your review. I am a Dodge Ram Limited driver though. Probablly never going to Mazda but nice review.

[@eduardotopete]

Touchscreens are overrated and kinda dangerous for many people, and Mazda knows it 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@dbparker6]

I 1st saw this color on the cx5 but I went with the carbon poly metal color but same color seats joe!

[@RaitisRides]

You got a great color.

[@12trguitar]

Love it. Been a Mazda own for 4 years now. Just wish the front end here was a little sportier and more aggressive.

[@Slayer-33]

Beautiful vehicle, really really good looking. Saw one today, in a light color, looked amazing. Will probably get a Lucid Gravity to avoid the scary ICE maintenance stuff lol

[@magnoliap5824]

I would have considered this vehicle had it been smaller (shorter). Too bad, it is very good looking inside and out. This color combo reminds me of the Pathfinder in Baja storm. 😂

[@toniraff5488]

Bought the cX 60 inline 6 diesel (eu) in jet black 👌

[@Marklevit1998]

Hey joe this Mazda CX-70 This Awesone Suv

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks mark for letting me share it with you!

[@Slimothy]

*RAITI! Does the Auto start stop REMEMBER staying off between turning off and on?*

[@Cali_12024]

Wow!! This for the people complainig about cx5 being cramped compared to rav4 and crv. Mazda cx70 a 2 row spacious suv. A great family car.

[@edwardvalivonis23]

Nice car Joe

[@fixitall2368]

Joe, zonking a fake vent that is actually functional makes my head hurt. 😂❤

[@DavidIknaian]

I love the CX-90 but didn't need the extra seats so I love that they came out with the CX-70. They also fixed the transmission issues so the CX-70 is much smoother. However there should be included standard features, especially at this price tag. No power adjustable/telescoping steering wheel in PHEV, center console storage is very small, you can't get the tan nappa leather like in this video in the PHEV option which makes no sense, the PHEV also doesn't have the digital rearview mirror. You'd think with the PHEV being the "higher end" version, that it would have the same features.

[@dominiciocca2842]

You had me rolling with the “Dateline” comment.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share the laughs and the SUVs with you.

[@blueflameSM]

Cupholders in the back with no 3rd row was an interesting design choice

[@oldschool1928]

Super genius!

[@BigtiggerP]

Agreed. It's evident they just removed the third row and called it a cx-70

[@BryanChance]

I wish the Lexus RX looked this good. :-) Very nice design.

[@MahamedG-ps9xz]

good morning raitis rides this is when is available??

[@RaitisRides]

Morning! It comes out this summer

[@MahamedG-ps9xz]

@@RaitisRides how many taipes cx 70

[@PopsRacer61]

I'm a Pro MAZDA guy! Between me & my son we've owned 4 since 2019. My neighbor has a well equipped 2021 BMW X5 which I drove on several occasions. I test drove the CX90 shortly after it came out. I'm not quite ready to say the CX90/CX70 is better than the X5. ..But I will say for the money you save compared to the X5 ($55k vs $75k)...it's somewhat of a bargain 🤔

[@tivanirudie756]

Mazda South Africa should consider bringing this mesmerizing machine, i know it will sell pretty well

[@ducatimultistradav4850]

What would go wrong if Mazda would provide a proper touchscreen unlike the one with the toggles??

[@RaitisRides]

lol you are not the first to say this

[@wiilli7685]

I love it. 💯💯💯💯💯💯 Zoom Zoom. Priced right.

[@DM-xt3rl]

That exterior definitely gives Acura MDX vibes even the wheels are similar to the new wheels for 2025 MDX Type S. The interior seems equal parts Genesis GV80 with that two tone steering wheel with underlying MDX vibes with the infotainment screen and some of the finishes used. It looks great but I’m not sure how the microsuede dashboard will hold up to wear and tear. With the style, pricing and engine of the CX-70, it looks like it could take sales away from some of the Acura and Lexus vehicles with. As for the Germans I’d say easily over an X3 but maybe not an X5.

[@johnnybravo5044]

There's hope for the auto industry. Thanks Mazda

[@Rockybalboa541]

Mazda needs to release that color and black out trim for the cx 90

[@neilsteiner408]

What about comparing to Acura RDX Advance?

[@Hschlick84]

11:47 Kombucha? Hell no, Baja Mountain Dew is where its at. He was struggling.

[@dumpnchase]

Did I miss the spare tire or is it run flats?

[@annv4338]

It has a spare tire.

[@gregpiper8416]

I'm seriously looking at this car. I'm not sure why it is classified as a mid-sized SUV. It has 120" wheelbase, is over 200" long and weighs over 4,800 lbs. No matter. I like it a lot.

[@Marvinbarsa14]

Great looking car besides that hump in the back

[@RaitisRides]

That is a good point

[@davidanderson-22]

The CX-70 is chef's kiss for me. But what I'd really like is the CX-50 with the i6 mild hybrid turbo.

[@RaitisRides]

Man I like the way you think David!

[@davidanderson-22]

I'd also like them to bring the 6 back with this engine setup. ​@@RaitisRides

[@brooklyn560]

I’d sell my cx50 and upgrade in a heartbeat

[@davidanderson-22]

The CX-60 is the same length as the CX-50. It could work. ​@@brooklyn560

[@rayavlogs]

@@brooklyn560lol 😂 gud luck with tis long boat ha ha 🤣

[@AnishPatelR]

Chillin like a villain,, 17:07 🤩

[@RaitisRides]

Heck yeah Anish!

[@limpunsing2229]

A new Mazda 6 RWD or AWD with that engine would be nice

[@wilfredoacevedo7315]

Really nice but for the money needs keys features, dual exhaust, fog lights

[@sakja123]

Finally Mazda. Some touchscreen functionality. I wonder if the CX-70 & 90 are a pre-cursor to a luxury Mazda brand spinoff.

[@kylehansen2931]

The cx50 and cx30 also have touchscreen carplay

[@edwardfedotov7356]

@sajka123 - I found the touchscreen to be intrusive and not as nice as the lovely controls you get in this car. The physical buttons make it feel very premium, and it’s done for safety to ensure your eyes are always focused on the road which is a nice touch.

[@bkelley1979]

SUV of the year! 👏👏👏💪😎🇺🇲👏👏👏

[@alexismerced2981]

I like the body style

[@RaitisRides]

You have great taste

[@percybedford6266]

It kinda of looks like an X5. It is a slick ride. Thanks for the review Joe and Lori.

[@kennyvu9606]

how much ?

[@eamolinaeam]

This will definitely replace my wife's Escape Titanium Elite.

[@K_patts8370]

How does the exhaust escape if no pipes?🤔

[@RaitisRides]

It has pipes, they are just hidden.

[@chrisb7507]

Lots of bike cops ( sometimes hidden and sometimes in plain view ) on that stretch of road, Fred Waring drive. 😂

[@user-DeDub]

Mazda needs to do something about that screen. Same screen for yrs