Describing the 2026 Mazda CX-70 is surprisingly simple.
Take the three-row Mazda CX-90, remove the third row of seats, and voila, you have the CX-70.

Sounds simple, but it’s true. While it is its own model, the CX-70 (now in its second model year after a 2025 introduction), can almost be seen as a unique trim level of the CX-90 — targeting people who will never have need for the third row seats but want the same cargo space as the CX-90.

Offered in three different powertrains (two gas options and a plug-in hybrid version), the CX-70 delivers the same quality drive you should expect from Mazda, and features one of the most upscale interiors you’re going to find in this size of SUV in the nonluxury realm.

Read on for my full take on the 2026 Mazda CX-70, which I recently had the chance to experience, and how it holds up against competitors from the nonluxury realm (Honda Passport, Jeep Grand Cherokee) and luxury realm (Lexus RX, BMW X3).