2025 MAZDA CX-70 PHEV – 10 TAKEAWAYS | DM REVIEW & TEST DRIVE

EV Channels Review

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV, reviewed here in the Premium Plus trim, presents a mixed bag of premium styling and materials marred by significant functional and driving dynamic shortcomings. While the interior boasts attractive design and high-quality touchpoints, the reviewer highlights a severe lack of practical storage solutions, particularly for phones and drinks, and a frustratingly low rear hatch opening. The driving experience is a major disappointment, with the reviewer criticizing the unrefined transmission shifts, even in EV mode, and a harsh, uncomposed ride quality that detracts from its luxury aspirations. The plug-in hybrid powertrain is deemed the "worst of both worlds," offering neither the efficiency of a dedicated EV nor the engaging performance of Mazda's inline-six gasoline engine, with real-world fuel economy figures that are surprisingly comparable to the non-hybrid version. Despite these flaws, the CX-70's exterior and interior styling, along with its physical button controls, are praised. Ultimately, the reviewer suggests the CX-70 makes more sense as a two-row vehicle than its CX-90 counterpart but strongly recommends the inline-six powertrain over the PHEV.