When searching for the perfect family SUV, parents face an overwhelming array of choices. However, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus AWD has emerged as a standout contender that’s capturing the attention of modern families seeking both luxury and practicality. With its impressive blend of premium features, advanced technology, and thoughtful design, the CX-70 is challenging traditional notions of what a family vehicle should be.
The Smart Two-Row Solution for Modern Families
Spacious Interior Design That Actually Works
Perhaps the biggest selling point for the CX-70 is its exceptional passenger space. The second row in particular affords ample legroom and adequate headroom. Unlike many three-row SUVs that compromise on comfort for additional seating, the CX-70 takes a different approach by maximizing space for five passengers rather than cramming in extra seats.
The decision to focus on a two-row configuration isn’t just about space—it’s about recognizing how modern families actually use their vehicles. As a person who moved states away from their family, doesn’t have any friends locally, and only has two children, not having a third row was nice. Many families find themselves rarely using that third row, making the CX-70’s approach refreshingly practical.
Premium Materials That Stand Up to Family Life
The interior of the CX-70 feels genuinely upscale, featuring plush Nappa leather upholstery and carefully selected materials throughout. The red leather that was in my tester is only for the Premium Plus model, but I’d definitely pay for it. It helped make the “budget” SUV feel a lot more premium, proving that luxury doesn’t have to break the bank.
Technology Features That Keep Families Connected
Intuitive Infotainment System
The CX-70 comes equipped with twin 12.3-inch displays—one for the infotainment system and the other for the digital gauge cluster, creating a modern, high-tech environment. While Mazda’s native OS is very easy to use, but it’s also very antiquated, the system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and communication.
The inclusion of Amazon Alexa integration adds another layer of convenience, allowing families to control smart home devices, make calls, or get information hands-free while on the road.
Advanced Safety Technology for Peace of Mind
Safety remains paramount for family vehicles, and the CX-70 delivers with comprehensive advanced driver assistance systems. Mazda equips every CX-70 with a comprehensive collection of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including features that many competitors charge extra for.
One standout feature is the Unresponsive Driver Support, which can safely pull the car over if the driver isn’t actively controlling the vehicle, as in a medical emergency. This technology provides an extra safety net that could prove invaluable in emergency situations.
Comfort Features That Make Every Journey Enjoyable
Climate Control and Seating Comfort
Family road trips become more pleasant with the CX-70’s three-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, ensuring everyone stays comfortable regardless of weather conditions. The panoramic moonroof adds to the airy feeling inside the cabin, helping prevent the claustrophobic sensation that can occur during long drives with children.
Exceptional Visibility and Ease of Entry
Unlike many modern SUVs that prioritize style over functionality, the CX-70 maintains excellent visibility. The A and B pillars weren’t obscenely large like they were in other SUVs I’ve tested, making checking over my shoulder or seeing over the mirrors so much easier. This design consideration significantly improves safety and reduces driver stress during daily driving.
The SUV’s rear doors are longer and open wider, making it effortless to enter and exit. This feature proves invaluable for parents dealing with car seats, sports equipment, or simply helping children get in and out of the vehicle safely.
Cargo Solutions for Active Families
Intelligent Storage Design
The CX-70’s cargo area offers generous space with an underfloor storage compartment in the cargo area. This additional storage solution helps families organize gear more effectively, keeping frequently used items easily accessible while hiding less attractive necessities out of sight.
The elimination of the third row actually benefits cargo capacity, as the cargo area should offer the same amount of space as the CX-90 does with its third row folded, although the CX-70 has a larger underfloor storage compartment.
Efficient Hybrid Technology for Modern Families
Plug-In Hybrid Convenience
The available plug-in hybrid powertrain represents a perfect balance for families looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing performance. When I was done for the day, I’d back the Mazda into my driveway, leave the garage door ajar, and plug er’ in with the factory charger. Within about 16 hours, the CX-70 PHEV was fully charged, demonstrating the convenience of home charging.
The hybrid system combines a 2.5-liter turbo four, making 323 horsepower combined (189 from the gas engine, 173 from the battery), providing ample power for family adventures while offering the option of electric-only driving for daily commutes.
Performance That Doesn’t Compromise on Fun
Despite its family-focused mission, the CX-70 maintains Mazda’s reputation for driving enjoyment. The available turbocharged engines provide strong acceleration when needed, whether merging onto highways or passing slower traffic on family road trips.
Value Proposition in the Premium Family SUV Segment
Competitive Pricing for Premium Features
At $57,450 MSRP, it’s no cheap pony, but it’s not a dull one, either. When compared to similarly equipped German luxury SUVs, the CX-70 offers substantial savings while providing many of the same premium features and build quality.
The combination of luxury materials, advanced technology, and thoughtful design details creates an ownership experience that feels more expensive than the price suggests. Looking at the design, the red leather interior, the rear passenger features, the creature comforts, sound system, the size of it, and the simple yet intuitive interior, I assumed it costs closer to $80,000 than $60,000.
Real-World Family Experience
Child-Friendly Design Elements
Beyond the technical specifications, the CX-70 excels in the small details that matter to families. Second-row sunshades help keep children comfortable during sunny drives, while the Bose premium audio system ensures entertainment remains clear and enjoyable for all passengers.
The intuitive controls and straightforward operation mean less time fumbling with settings and more time focused on safe driving and family interaction.
A Fresh Take on Family Transportation
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 challenges the conventional wisdom that families need three rows of seating to be practical. By focusing on maximizing comfort and utility for five passengers rather than cramming in extra seats, Mazda has created a vehicle that better serves how most families actually live and travel.
The combination of premium materials, advanced safety technology, efficient hybrid powertrains, and thoughtful design details creates a compelling package for modern families. While it may not be the cheapest option in the segment, the CX-70 delivers genuine luxury and functionality at a price point that remains accessible to many families.
For families prioritizing quality over quantity—whether in seating capacity or feature lists—the Mazda CX-70 represents a sophisticated choice that proves you don’t need to sacrifice luxury for practicality. It’s a vehicle that grows with families rather than overwhelming them, offering exactly what’s needed without unnecessary complexity.