The Mazda CX-70 is Vital to the Automaker’s Future

Enhancing its crossover lineup to cater to diverse buyers, Mazda has made significant strides. An upcoming addition to this lineup is the CX-70, strategically positioned between the three-row CX-90 and the smaller CX-50 and CX-5 SUVs.

Built on Mazda’s Large Product platform, which it shares with the CX-50 and CX-90, the forthcoming CX-70, a two-row mid-size crossover, is set to make its debut soon. The CX-60, another two-row mid-size Mazda SUV, has already been introduced in markets outside the U.S., providing valuable insights into what the CX-70 may offer.

With the CX-90 and CX-50 receiving accolades in the United States and the CX-60 earning positive reviews overseas, anticipation is high for the CX-70. Mazda, known for its pioneering innovations in the automotive industry, may unveil a distinctive feature that sets the CX-70 apart from its competitors. Here’s why the imminent CX-70 holds significance for Mazda.

The majority of SUVs adopt a transverse engine configuration due to its side-to-side packaging, which maximizes cabin space and facilitates a front-wheel drive setup. However, this straightforward design often compromises sportiness and handling.

Enhanced Handling Through Longitudinal Engine Layout

In a longitudinal layout, the engine aligns parallel to the car’s direction, with the drive shaft perpendicular to the axles—commonly found in large-engined rear-wheel drive vehicles. The upcoming CX-70 will feature a rear-biased all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration similar to the CX-60.

The longitudinal engine setup enhances handling by achieving better weight distribution from front to rear. Mazda asserts that concentrating most of the drivetrain’s weight in the vehicle’s middle enables tighter and more precise cornering. Unlike vehicles with a transverse engine, where most weight rests on the front axle, the longitudinal setup directs most torque to the rear axle during regular driving conditions. This allows the front wheels to focus on steering, providing the driver with confidence and agility. In challenging conditions like snow or gravel roads, torque distribution between both axles ensures stability. In contrast, front-wheel drive vehicles burden the front wheels with both power delivery and steering, resulting in strenuous efforts.

The pursuit of sportiness and handling aligns with Mazda’s upscale ambitions, aiming to compete with German automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Longitudinal Setup Facilitates Advanced AWD Systems

While the transverse layout suits simple front-wheel drive setups, the longitudinal layout accommodates intricate AWD systems, as seen in the current CX-60 and anticipated in the CX-70. This setup allows for the seamless integration of features like viscous couplings and torsen differentials directly from the transmission. Placing the engine ‘north-to-south’ also enables the incorporation of the double-wishbone front suspension seen in the CX-60.

Shared Platform with the CX-90

Jeff Guyton, the former CEO of Mazda North America, has confirmed that the CX-90 and CX-70 will share a similar platform. Beyond enhancing handling characteristics, this new layout brings several advantages to the CX-70.

Spacious Passenger and Cargo Area

Despite sharing a platform with the CX-90, the CX-70 will have a shorter wheelbase. Nevertheless, it is poised to offer ample cargo space, benefitting from its two-row configuration. Passengers can expect comfort with premium materials akin to those in the CX-90 and CX-60.

Likely Engine Options

It is anticipated that the CX-70 will feature engines similar to those found in the CX-60 and CX-90. Mazda faces the task of selecting an engine to power its eagerly awaited two-row SUV, the CX-70, and has various options to consider from the CX-60 and CX-90 lineups.

Possible Adoption of CX-90’s Turbocharged 3.3-liter Engine

The CX-70 may opt for the new turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine with a 48-volt hybrid system, debuted in the CX-90. This engine, producing either 340 horsepower or 280 horsepower depending on the chosen trim, showcases Mazda’s intent to move upmarket, aligning with setups found in SUVs like the BMW X5.

Potential Plug-In Hybrid Option from CX-60

Another prospect for the CX-70 is the 2.5-liter engine and 17.8kWh battery plug-in hybrid system featured in the CX-60. Generating 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, it boasts an electric range of 39 miles. The CX-60 lineup includes a 3.3-liter diesel engine, not expected to reach the U.S. market. The anticipated eight-speed automatic transmission, praised for its clever engineering by a senior Mazda executive, is likely to be adopted by the CX-70.

Delays Shift CX-70’s Debut to 2024

Originally scheduled for a North American debut in late 2023, the CX-70’s launch has been postponed to 2024, according to Mazda CEO Tom Donnelly. However, the reason behind the delay remains undisclosed, leaving room for speculation on whether it’s a strategic decision or an unforeseen circumstance.

Importance of the CX-70 for Mazda

In essence, the CX-70 will embody a scaled-down version of the CX-90, shedding two rows and likely reducing its overall weight. With a sportier platform, a longitudinal drivetrain layout, and a potential inline-six/hybrid option akin to the current CX-90, Mazda aims to compete with luxury models like the Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3, both renowned for their sportier layouts at a premium.

While specifics are unconfirmed, Mazda could potentially gain an advantage with the CX-70’s pricing. If the Japanese automaker manages to undercut its prestigious competitors, delivering luxury, sportier performance, and captivating aesthetics at a more affordable price, it could carve a new niche for the Mazda brand in the U.S. market and potentially draw sales away from the mentioned premium brands.

Photo Source: Mazda Newsroom