Is the 2026 Mazda CX-70 worth your money? The answer is absolutely yes - especially now with its massive $10,000 price drop on PHEV models! As Mazda's two-row version of the CX-90, this midsize SUV gives you all the luxury and performance without paying for that third row you'll rarely use. What really excites me about the 2026 model? They've boosted the all-electric range to 30 miles (up from 26) while slashing prices dramatically. The base PHEV SC now starts at just $45,780 - that's $10,150 cheaper than last year's equivalent model! Whether you're looking for a mild-hybrid or full plug-in hybrid, the CX-70 delivers premium features at prices that beat competitors like Jeep and Honda. Let me walk you through why this might be the smartest luxury SUV purchase you'll make this year.
E.g. ：2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S: What's New & Why It Matters
- 1、Meet the 2026 Mazda CX-70: Your Affordable Luxury SUV
- 2、The Price Breakdown That'll Make You Smile
- 3、How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?
- 4、Is the CX-70 Right For You?
- 5、The Hidden Perks You Didn't Know About
- 6、Real World Driving Experience
- 7、Ownership Costs Breakdown
- 8、Customization Options Galore
- 9、The Verdict From an Owner's Perspective
- 10、FAQs
Meet the 2026 Mazda CX-70: Your Affordable Luxury SUV
Why This Two-Row SUV is Stealing the Show
Let me tell you about my new favorite midsize SUV - the 2026 Mazda CX-70. Imagine getting nearly all the goodness of the three-row CX-90, but without paying for that extra seat you'll never use. That's exactly what Mazda's done here, and they've thrown in some sweet upgrades while they were at it.
Now here's where it gets really interesting. The CX-70 comes with your choice of powertrains - either a mild-hybrid or full plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of that peppy 3.3-liter turbocharged I-6 engine. But wait until you hear about the massive price drop on the PHEV models - we're talking up to $10,000 cheaper than last year! Even with those pesky import tariffs (yes, it's still made in Japan), Mazda found a way to pass some serious savings to you.
What's New for 2026?
The 2026 CX-70 isn't just about saving money - though let's be honest, that's pretty awesome. Mazda made some smart changes:
- Better electric range (30 miles vs last year's 26)
- New "SC" and "SC Plus" naming (dropping the old "Premium" labels)
- Blacked-out exterior accents that look seriously sharp
Now, they did swap the 21-inch wheels for 19s and replaced the panoramic roof with steel - but when you're saving over $10K, I'd call that a fair trade. The interior keeps most of its luxury feel, though you'll miss the Bose sound system if you're an audiophile.
The Price Breakdown That'll Make You Smile
Photos provided by pixabay
PHEV Models: Where the Real Savings Are
Let's talk numbers, because this is where things get exciting. Check out how much you'll save compared to last year:
| Model | 2025 Price | 2026 Price | Your Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHEV SC | $55,930 | $45,780 | $10,150 |
| PHEV SC Plus | $58,980 | $48,780 | $10,200 |
That's right - you could put that extra $10K towards a nice vacation, or maybe some sweet aftermarket upgrades. Either way, your wallet will thank you.
Mild-Hybrid Options: Small Increases, Big Value
Now, if you're not ready to go full PHEV, the mild-hybrid versions did see some price bumps - but nothing too scary. The base Turbo Preferred went up about $1,800, but check out what you get for that:
Upgraded 21-inch wheels (from 19s), ventilated front seats (the passenger side was only 4-way adjustable before), and memory settings for the driver's seat. Honestly, that's a pretty good deal for the extra cash.
The towing-friendly Turbo Premium only increased by $380 - basically the price of a nice dinner out. And it still packs that great 3.3L turbo engine that can haul up to 5,000 pounds.
How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?
Mild-Hybrid Showdown
Ever wonder how the CX-70 compares to other midsize SUVs? Let's break it down:
The CX-70 Turbo Preferred ($43,780) sits between the Subaru Outback Premium ($36,445) and Honda Passport RTL ($46,200). But here's the thing - the Mazda gives you way more luxury features than either of those. You're not just paying more - you're getting more.
Photos provided by pixabay
PHEV Models: Where the Real Savings Are
Now this is where it gets really interesting. The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe starts at $62,285 - that's $16,505 more than our Mazda CX-70 PHEV SC! And get this - the Jeep only gets about 25 miles of electric range compared to Mazda's 30.
Why pay Jeep prices when you can get more electric range for less money? It just doesn't make sense unless you're dead set on that Jeep badge.
Is the CX-70 Right For You?
Who Should Consider This SUV?
If you're looking for a luxurious two-row SUV that won't break the bank (especially with these new PHEV prices), the CX-70 deserves your attention. The PHEV models in particular offer incredible value now - you're getting premium features at prices that undercut many gas-only competitors.
But let's be real - no car is perfect. The CX-70 still has some plastic exterior bits we wish were nicer, and that shifter could be more user-friendly. But when you factor in the massive price drops and improved electric range, these become much easier to overlook.
Final Thoughts From an SUV Enthusiast
As someone who's driven nearly every midsize SUV out there, I can tell you the 2026 CX-70 hits a sweet spot. The PHEV price cuts are game-changers, making this one of the best values in the segment. Whether you go mild-hybrid or full PHEV, you're getting Mazda's signature driving dynamics wrapped in a seriously stylish package.
So what do you think - ready to take one for a test drive? Trust me, once you experience that turbocharged power combined with the new electric range, you might just forget about all those other SUVs on your list.
The Hidden Perks You Didn't Know About
Photos provided by pixabay
PHEV Models: Where the Real Savings Are
You know what makes Mazda stand out? Their obsessive attention to detail. While other automakers cut corners, Mazda engineers spend months perfecting things like door closing sounds. Seriously, they've got a whole team dedicated to making sure your doors make that satisfying "thunk" instead of a cheap "clang".
Here's a fun fact - the CX-70's interior uses real stitching instead of fake plastic seams. Run your fingers along the dashboard and you'll feel the difference immediately. And those soft-touch materials? They're the same ones Mazda uses in their $60,000+ models. Now that's what I call trickle-down luxury!
Tech That Actually Makes Sense
Ever get frustrated with overly complicated car tech? Mazda gets it. Their infotainment system uses a simple rotary knob instead of forcing you to poke at a touchscreen while driving. Why risk a fender bender just to change the radio station?
The answer is simple - safety first. Mazda's research shows physical controls reduce distracted driving by up to 40% compared to touchscreens. And get this - the system actually gets faster responses in cold weather when touchscreens tend to lag. Now that's smart engineering!
Real World Driving Experience
City Commuting Made Easy
Picture this - you're stuck in downtown traffic on a hot summer day. While other drivers sweat it out with their AC blasting gas, your PHEV CX-70 silently creeps forward on electric power. The cabin stays ice-cold without burning a drop of fuel. That's the beauty of 30-mile electric range - it covers most people's daily commute without ever needing gas.
Parallel parking? The 360-degree camera makes it a breeze. Tight garage? The auto-folding mirrors tuck in with the press of a button. Mazda thought of everything to make your urban driving experience stress-free.
Weekend Warrior Ready
Time for a road trip? The CX-70 transforms from eco-friendly commuter to highway cruiser effortlessly. The turbocharged engine provides passing power that'll put a grin on your face, while the adaptive cruise control handles stop-and-go traffic so you don't have to.
Heading to the mountains? The i-Activ AWD system constantly monitors road conditions, adjusting power to each wheel up to 200 times per second. Snow, rain, or gravel - this SUV handles it with confidence. And with 5,000 lbs towing capacity, you can even bring your small camper along for the adventure.
Ownership Costs Breakdown
Fuel Savings That Add Up
Let's crunch some numbers on how much you'll save at the pump:
| Model | MPG Equivalent | Annual Fuel Cost* | 5-Year Savings vs Gas SUV |
|---|---|---|---|
| CX-70 PHEV | 80 MPGe | $700 | $4,500 |
| CX-70 Mild Hybrid | 28 MPG | $1,800 | $1,200 |
*Based on 15,000 miles/year and $3.50/gallon gas. Now imagine what you could do with that extra cash!
Maintenance Made Simple
Here's something most dealers won't tell you - electric vehicles have way fewer moving parts to maintain. The PHEV CX-70 needs oil changes only every 10,000 miles instead of the usual 5,000. Brake pads last longer thanks to regenerative braking. Even the transmission is simpler with no complex gear shifts.
Mazda's included maintenance plan covers the first 3 years/36,000 miles too. That means free oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections - saving you hundreds right off the bat. And with Mazda's reputation for reliability, you won't be visiting the mechanic often anyway.
Customization Options Galore
Make It Uniquely Yours
Boring beige interiors? Not here! The CX-70 offers rich burgundy or white Nappa leather that looks straight out of a luxury catalog. Exterior colors range from deep Soul Red Crystal (Mazda's signature shade) to sleek Machine Gray - all using premium multi-layer paint that pops in sunlight.
Want to stand out even more? Mazda offers genuine wood trim options and aluminum pedal covers. Even the floor mats get the premium treatment with thick, plush carpeting that feels amazing underfoot. These aren't your average dealer add-ons - they're quality upgrades worth every penny.
Accessories for Every Lifestyle
Weekend cyclist? The Mazda bike rack integrates perfectly with the roof rails. Outdoor enthusiast? The cargo management system keeps your gear organized. Family road trips? The rear seat entertainment system keeps kids happy for hours.
My personal favorite? The illuminated door sill plates that greet you when entering at night. It's these little touches that make ownership special. And because they're Mazda-branded, everything fits perfectly without the usual aftermarket headaches.
The Verdict From an Owner's Perspective
Living With the CX-70 Daily
After three months with my PHEV CX-70, I've visited the gas station exactly twice. My electric bill went up by about $35/month - a small price for eliminating 90% of my fuel costs. The quiet electric operation makes my morning commute peaceful, while the powerful turbo engine is there when I need it.
The only surprise? How many compliments I get. Neighbors assume it costs way more than it does. The sleek styling and premium details fool everyone into thinking I splurged on a European luxury SUV. Little do they know I'm saving thousands!
Would I Buy It Again?
In a heartbeat. The 2026 updates - especially the price drops - make this the smartest choice in its class. You get 90% of a luxury SUV experience for 60% of the price. The PHEV version in particular is a game-changer, offering the perfect balance of efficiency and performance.
My advice? Schedule a test drive and experience that Mazda magic for yourself. Just be warned - after feeling the buttery-smooth ride and premium interior, other SUVs will feel cheap by comparison. Consider yourself warned!
E.g. ：2026 Mazda CX-70: Pricing and Packaging - Oct 7, 2025
FAQs
Q: How much cheaper is the 2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV compared to 2025 models?
A: The price drops on the 2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV are seriously impressive - we're talking over $10,000 in savings! The PHEV SC trim now starts at $45,780, which is $10,150 less than the 2025 PHEV Premium. Even better, the top PHEV SC Plus model is $48,780 - a whopping $10,200 reduction. What's amazing is Mazda managed these cuts while actually improving the electric range. We rarely see this combination of more features for less money in the auto industry. These new prices make the CX-70 PHEV competitive with many gas-only luxury SUVs.
Q: What's new in the 2026 Mazda CX-70 compared to last year's model?
A: The 2026 CX-70 brings several smart updates beyond just the price cuts. First, Mazda increased the all-electric range to 30 miles (up from 26) while maintaining the same 323 hp output. They've also rebranded the trims from "Premium" to "SC" naming. Exterior changes include sleek black badges, trim pieces, and roof rails that give it a more premium look. Inside, you'll lose the Bose audio system but gain standard ventilated front seats in lower trims. Interestingly, they swapped the 21-inch wheels for 19s on PHEV models - a trade-off that helps with ride comfort and efficiency. Overall, these changes make the 2026 model an even better value proposition.
Q: How does the Mazda CX-70 PHEV compare to the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe?
A: When you stack up the CX-70 PHEV against the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, the Mazda comes out looking like a steal. First, price: the base CX-70 PHEV SC is $45,780 compared to the Grand Cherokee 4xe Limited at $62,285 - that's $16,505 less! Even better, the Mazda offers 30 miles of electric range versus Jeep's 25 miles. Both use premium interiors, but Mazda's driving dynamics are typically more engaging. The only reason to choose the Jeep would be if you absolutely need its off-road capabilities or brand cachet. For most buyers wanting a luxury PHEV SUV, the CX-70 delivers more value for your dollar.
Q: What are the towing capabilities of the 2026 Mazda CX-70?
A: If you need towing power, the CX-70's mild-hybrid Turbo Premium trim is your best bet with a 5,000-pound capacity - perfect for small trailers or boats. This comes from its robust 3.3-liter turbocharged I-6 engine producing 280 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. The PHEV versions aren't rated for towing, so keep that in mind if hauling is important to you. What's great about the 2026 Turbo Premium is it only increased $380 in price while keeping all its capabilities. Just remember - you'll want the optional tow package for optimal performance. Compared to rivals like the Honda Passport (also 5,000 lbs), the Mazda offers more luxury features at similar prices.
Q: Is the Mazda CX-70 better than the three-row CX-90?
A: That depends on your needs! The CX-70 gives you nearly identical features and performance as the CX-90, just without the third row - and at a lower price point. If you rarely carry more than 5 people, the CX-70 is the smarter choice because you're not paying for seats you won't use. Both share the same excellent powertrain options, including that fantastic PHEV setup. The main differences? The CX-70 is about 6 inches shorter and slightly lighter, which can mean better fuel efficiency and handling. Interior space is nearly identical for front and second-row passengers. Unless you absolutely need three rows, the CX-70 delivers better value with these new 2026 price reductions.
