New Mazda CX-70 Unveiled As 2-Row Version Of CX-90

Mazda just unveiled its third offering based on its latest Large Products Technology platform dubbed the CX-70. Essentially, this is a two-row 'companion' to the larger CX-90.

Besides a refreshed version of its staple mid-sized SUV debuting locally this week, Japanese automaker Mazda also took the wraps off the new Mazda CX-70 model earlier today. This is the automaker’s third offering based on its latest Large Products Technology platform.

From the looks of it, the CX-70 appears to be the two-row ‘companion’ to the larger and three-rowed CX-90 model – by the largest offering based on said new platform mentioned. Mazda hasn’t released any dimension figures, but the CX-70 does look very much identical to the CX-90.

Visually, the CX-70 stands apart from the CX-90 thanks to a bevy of black exterior accents plus a burgundy-hued interior colourway motif. Unique to the CX-70 too is a new power-folding second-row seat. Mazda adds these can be folded down to offer a completely flat loading bay, and it’s supplemented with three additional hidden storage bins underneath.

Though similar in size to the CX-90, the CX-70 does stand out visually thanks to a bevy of black exterior accents. Note: PHEV variant pictured above.

Like the larger CX-90, this new CX-70 is set harness the same powertrains. The range consist of a 3.3-litre in-line 6-cyl turbocharged petrol and diesel options primed with a 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) setup, as well as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) choice primed with a 68 kW e-motor and 17.8 kWh lithium-ion battery.

All are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission plus a rear-biased all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup. Mazda hasn’t released exact output figures for each powertrain in the CX-70, but they are expected to mirror closely to the CX-90’s. For reference, the  three-rowed model sees its petrol lump deliver up to 340 HP and 500 NM, whilst its oil-burning twin offers up to 250 HP and 550 NM.

Unique to the CX-70 too is the burgundy-hued interior motif pictured above. At a glance, it's easy to also note how the CX-70's kit list mirrors closely to the larger CX-90.

In terms of kit, the CX-70 appears to mirror its CX-90 sibling for the most parts here too. Expect the choice between 7.0- and 12.3-inch digital instrument screens, as well as 10.25- or 12.3-inch infotainment screens, available – depending on variant. The same applies with safety kit, which should include a full swing of active driver assistance (ADAS).

Speaking of which, Mazda were keen to note one new addition to said ADAS suite, that being an emergency assist function for the Cruising and Traffic Support feature. The system monitors whether the driver closes their eyes or looks away from the road and alerts them to pay attention. If the driver doesn’t respond to prompts, said system will slow the vehicle down or bring it to a complete stop.

New to the CX-70 is a power-folding second-row seat which, according to Mazda, can fold down and offer a totally flat loading area. Present too are three hidden storage bins under the boot floor.

Despite similar size and kit as the CX-90, the new Mazda CX-70 is expected to undercut said larger model in price. Also, with the CX-90 being developed primarily for the North American market, perhaps we could see this CX-70 stand in to replace the CX-9 instead of the CX-90 in select markets – i.e., ours.

On that note, would you fancy this Mazda-built alternative against something like the upcoming locally assembled (CKD) Volkswagen Touareg? As always, share your take in the comments below, and our social media pages…