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Midsize Two-Row SUV

Mazda CX-70

Mazda CX-70
3.8 OUT OF 10
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Significant concerns from real users
#2 of 2in Midsize Two-Row SUV
353 sources · updated June 2026
⚠ Elevated risk
Rear brake squeal systematic enough to trigger Mazda warranty extension (CSP 14). Multiple independent reports of radiator failures at low mileage (17k-40k miles). Rattles and interior squeaks developing after 20k miles per MotorTrend yearlong test. Transmission exhibits jerky low-speed shifting and occasional hesitation.

Mazda built this two-row SUV to deliver luxury materials and a punchy inline-six at thousands below German pricing, but the brand-new platform wasn't ready for showrooms. Rear brakes squeal so persistently that Mazda extended the warranty and redesigned the pads, yet parts remain backordered six months out. Radiators crack at 17,000 miles. Rattles infiltrate the cabin after 20,000. MotorTrend's yearlong tester called it one of their worst long-term vehicles, citing quality lapses that shouldn't exist at $50,000. The CX-90 costs the same, adds a third row, and shares these same problems. If you want Mazda's excellent driving feel without the early-adopter tax, wait for the second model year or choose the CX-50 Hybrid, which uses Toyota's proven powertrain instead of this troubled architecture. Skip this one unless steep discounts compensate for likely warranty visits.

The context that matters
What you're actually buying — and what the data leans toward.
CX-70 launched as 2025 model year — this is the only generation. All data reflects current production models. Platform shared with CX-90 which has documented reliability issues across the 60/70/80/90 lineup.
Common complaints8 issues
Rear brake squeal widespread enough to require Mazda warranty extension program
Rattles and squeaks developing in cabin after 20,000 miles per expert testing
Radiator failures reported by multiple owners at low mileage (17k-40k miles)
Transmission exhibits jerky shifting at low speeds and occasional hesitation
Needlessly complex infotainment system frustrates users
Costs nearly same as three-row CX-90 despite having fewer seats
Brand-new platform (2025 debut) lacks long-term reliability track record
Falken OEM tires wearing prematurely, some owners report replacement needed by 14k-17k miles
What owners praise8 strengths
Powerful turbocharged inline-six engine with 340 hp delivers strong acceleration
Premium interior materials and fit-and-finish compete with luxury brands at lower price point
Nimble handling and sporty driving dynamics unusual for midsize SUV segment
More cargo space than three-row CX-90 sibling due to two-row configuration
PHEV variant offers 32-mile electric range and qualifies for federal tax credit
Handsome exterior and interior design with upscale aesthetic
Available with 0% APR financing and $5,000 manufacturer incentives (May 2026)
Shares Toyota hybrid powertrain in CX-50 Hybrid variant (different platform)
📊 How this score was calculated — 6-dimension rubric
Moderate confidence
353 sources analysed — limited long-term owner data
353 sources analysed — strong data quality
Reliability & Durability(22%)5.0
No long-term owner data available — score is provisional
User Sentiment(22%)2.6
89 positive upvotes vs 247 negative upvotes
Complaint Severity(16%)6.7
Complaints: 12 cosmetic, 47 functional, 23 systematic, 2 safety
Consensus Strength(8%)1.4
8 strongly positive, 18 strongly negative, 31 mixed/neutral
Value for Money(15%)1.8
3 'worth it', 7 'overpriced', 9 mention better-value alternatives
Owner Advocacy(17%)1.4
0 repurchased/gifted, 2 unprompted recommendations, 6 regrets
⚠ Systematic failure pattern reported by multiple independent owners
Scores are percentile ranks: 5.0 is the median product in existence. 8.5+ is reserved for genuinely exceptional products (top ~10%). The score reflects consensus quality, what owners say about the product. Risk is tracked separately and shown above the summary when present. Both are calculated deterministically, so the same signals always produce the same score.
Specifications2026
Pricing
Starting MSRP
$44,280
Range
$44,280 - $58,400
Capability
Towing capacity
5,000 lbs
Fuel economy
23 city / 28 hwy / 25 combined MPG
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Dimensions & capacity
Seating
5 passengers
Powertrains
3.3L Turbo I-6
standard
280 hp
3.3L Turbo I-6
S trims
340 hp
Trim pricing
Preferred
3,500 lb towing capacity; now includes heated/ventilated front seats
$44,280
Premium
21-inch wheels, panoramic sunroof, 12-speaker Bose, HUD, 5,000 lb towing
Premium Plus
5,000 lb towing capacity
S (Premium)
340 hp turbo inline-six
$53,905
Top trim
$58,400
🏆
How it ranks in Midsize Two-Row SUV
2 products compared
1
Honda Passport (2026)
7.6/10
→ Consider
2
Mazda CX-70 you are here
3.8/10
✕ Skip
If you're buying
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