The CX-70 is totally made in Japan, assuring high quality. (Mazda/Submitted)
By C.A. Haire
Traditionally, consumers shopping for a luxury Japanese SUV will consider the Lexus or Infiniti brands. Now Mazda has entered the upgrade market with their CX-70 offering. If the name does not impress, its $58K price tag of this Premium Plus model should.
An outstanding feature is found under the hood. Instead of a common V-6 or turbocharged four-cylinder motor, we get an inline six cylinder. This design is superior, being smoother and quieter, and provides exceptional fuel economy. The only disadvantage on this platform type is its length, which prevents it from fitting in most of today’s compact vehicles. This is why they are rarely seen, except in very exotic limited production cars.
The CX-70’s luxurious cabin matches the vehicle’s high price tag. (Mazda/Submitted)
This 3.3-liter turbo is designed specifically for the CX series SUV. It was a costly effort for Mazda, but worth it. With 340 horsepower, acceleration is brisk, and the 23 to 29 mpg fuel economy rating is impressive, and outdoes the competition.
The cabin is very luxurious, with leather, suede liner and outstanding sound system. Other materials and workmanship are top grade.
This is a pleasant vehicle for daily commuting. That engine power is strong, the ride is comfortable, steering is quick and brakes stop in a hurry. We observed 30 mpg on freeway driving.
For those who don’t need all this luxury or horsepower, there is the base CX-70. It has a less potent version of that inline motor with 280 ponies, no leather trim, and starts at $41K. All versions are made in Japan, which explains the superb quality. This makes all versions of this SUV a smart choice.
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