Mazda CX-5 & CX-70 Comparison, Specs & Key Differences

Mazda’s flagship SUV has been the CX-5, a popular compact SUV among young professionals and growing families for several years. In recent years, Mazda has added new SUVs, building off where the CX-5 started, including models like the CX-50, CX-90, and CX-70. In this piece, we’ll compare the CX-5 to the 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV, a larger, plug-in hybrid SUV. Both have their strong points, making compelling value propositions for different segments of buyers. The 2024 Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,300, while the  CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid starts at $54,400. Does the CX-70 justify the higher price tag, or would you be better off sticking with the tried and true CX-5? Let’s take a look.

Engine Performance & Fuel Efficiency

2024 CX-5

Starting with the CX-5, you’ll find a standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine or an optional 256-horsepower turbocharged option that offers snappier acceleration. Both powertrains are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. At its most fuel-efficient, the CX-5 is rated for 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway, for a total estimated range of 398 miles on a full tank. 

2025 CX-70 PHEV

The CX-70 PHEV offers only one powertrain: a 2.5L four-cylinder engine and a 68 kW electric motor that combine to make 323 horses. The powertrain is paired with an eight-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. The electric motor draws power from a 17.8-kWh battery. When relying on only electric power, the PHEV gets 26 miles of range, allowing you to run around town without touching your gas tank. If you utilize a 240-volt charger, you can get your CX-70 charged from 20% to 80% in about an hour and a half. When it taps the gas tank, the CX-70 gets about 24 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the open road, getting you 490 miles of total range. 

So, which powertrain is better? The CX-70 has more to offer but at a higher price. The hybrid powertrain helps make up some of this difference, passing on gas savings over several years. While the gas savings are nice, that alone will not make up the price difference. The more potent powertrain also helps justify the higher cost. We’ll see how the CX-70 PHEV continues to add value by comparing the interior.

CX-70 vs CX-5 Interior & Space

CX-5 Interior Options & Features

The CX-5 has eight trim levels, from entry-level leatherette seats to Nappa leather heated seats. If you prefer a more economical approach, the CX-5 can still be had with some premium features like heated seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, but higher trim levels unlock more premium features, including wireless phone charges, additional USB ports, a Bose sound system, ventilated seats, heated steering wheels and more. While the entry-level Select trim level has some great features, top-end Signature trim levels are downright luxurious, though at a starting MSRP closer to $40,000. The CX-5 offers 29.1 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear, plus 58.1 cubic feet when the rear row is folded. 

2025 CX-70 PHEV Interior Options & Features

The CX-70 is available in two trim levels, with the Premium Plus trim costing about $3,000 more than the Premium. Both come with abundant standard features. You’ll find everything we listed in the top-end CX-5 and more. The CX-70 is more luxurious in total, adding extra features like Alexa Built-In, a 360-degree camera view, and the very best materials available. The CX-70 shares the same body as the CX-90, removing the CX-90’s rear row in favor of extra passenger and cargo space. The five-seater SUV offers 39.6 cubic feet of storage space, with up to 75.3 cubic feet of space in total. So which model is better? Let’s find out!