The Mazda CX-70 Ushers in the Automaker’s Hybrid Era

Back in 1989, Mazda did something extraordinary. The Japanese automaker revived the automotive market with the two-seat convertible sports car, the MX-5 Miata. The Mazda Miata launch was a breath of fresh air for people with previous experience with unreliable British-made sports cars like the Triumph TR4 and MGB. Moreover, the Miata showed that sports cars could be dependable.

The automakers of fun have expanded their reputation for reliable vehicles beyond cars and into the SUV market, emphasizing crossovers. As a result, Mazda has introduced three new models over two years. First, the Mazda CX-50 (which boasts improved all-wheel-drive), then the Mazda CX-90 (a larger three-row option), and lastly, the CX-70 (a two-row SUV with a plug-in hybrid option) set to hit the U.S. market this Summer (2023), potentially debuting in July or August (2023).

It’s no secret that the Japanese automaker has a long history of producing top-notch sports cars, but unfortunately, the car makers been slow to adapt to the future of EVs. Mazda’s first battery-powered offering, the MX-30 crossover, wasn’t introduced until 2020, and even then, it left a lot to be desired. Despite its relatively low price point of just $34,110* (excluding taxes and destination fees), its 100-mile range is hardly impressive by today’s standards, especially considering its relatively small 35.5-kilowatt-hour battery. Fortunately, the CX-5 maker has worked hard to address these shortcomings by developing the e-Skyactiv R-EV, a rotary-powered range extender expected to make its way to the U.S. market soon.

The CX-90 maker is preparing for the future of EVs by offering a range of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). However, Mazda may be behind the curve, as they are not planning to launch their entire line of battery cars until around 2028-2030. However, for now, the Japanese automaker is considering investing in battery production. The years leading up to this launch were groundbreaking, with battery electrics projected to make up only 25 to 40% of the automaker’s output by 2030.

While we still await information regarding the 2024 Mazda CX-70, the new two-row SUV is expected to employ the PHEV configuration, similar to the European market’s CX-60. The CX-70’s setup includes a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine and a 17.8-kilowatt-hour battery for a total output of 323 horsepower. Although the electric range for the CX-70 has yet to be confirmed, the CX-60 boasts a range of 39 miles on electric power alone.

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV and CX-70 share a platform and similar setup—the CX-90 Preferred holds a starting price of $43,445* (excluding taxes and destination fees). In addition, the CX-70 shares many features of its inline-six and PHEV drivetrain with the CX-60 and CX-90, but its pricing has yet to be announced.

“For the CX-70, we have not released any information or photos yet. Stay tuned!” – Tamara Mlynarczyk, President of Mazda Foundation, Manager of Public Affairs

The 2024 Mazda CX-70 is a spacious and impressive SUV replacing the CX-7, which was discontinued in 2012. The CX-70 hosts seating for five, a step up from the CX-50, and has a luxurious interior featuring Nappa leather and wood accents. The Mazda is designed to contend with other high-end luxury models and comes standard with all-wheel drive. Furthermore, the latest infotainment system with a 12.3-inch screen is also expected to be included.

Come to Test Drive Your 2023 Mazda CX-5 at Kenny Ross Mazda

The perfect car for you is waiting at Kenny Ross Mazda. A 2023 Mazda CX-5 eagerly awaits your arrival, but if you’ve got your heart set on a Mazda CX-5, we’ve got plenty of new and pre-owned vehicles to choose from. Our friendly and passionate sales team will help you find the car of your dreams, and our finance managers will ensure you get the best rates possible. You can apply for auto financing right now and get a headstart on that new car smell. And if you’re not quite ready to part with your current vehicle, our experienced technicians are here to help with any service or repair needs. With sixty years of business under our belt, you know you can trust Kenny Ross Mazda. So why not ask your neighbors and see what we have in store for you? Whether you’re looking for a great deal on a car, a lease payment plan, routine maintenance, or major repairs, we’ve got you covered. See us today!

Photo Source/Copyright: Mazda Australia