Mazda’s newest model was designed to appeal to people on the go.
Mazda recently unveiled an all-new model, the CX-70, slotted just below their flagship SUV, the CX-90. The new CX-70 is a two-row mid-size crossover with room for five, plus a whole lot of cargo space.
According to Tom Donnelly, President & CEO of Mazda North American Operations, all Mazda vehicles will be electrified by 2030. With that end goal in mind, the CX-70 was engineered from the outset with electrification in mind and will be available with two powertrain options, both of which will be electrified.
Speaking during the unveiling of the CX-70, Donnelly said that Mazda is seeing a “strong demand” for PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles), and that “right now, PHEV is the right technology for this moment.”
He explained that Mazda has a “three-phase global electrification plan,” and that currently, the company is in phase one, which includes the introduction of new powertrains into the Mazda lineup.
As part of this first phase, Mazda is introducing the CX-70 with these two electrified powertrain options: an e-SkyActiv G 3.3L inline six-turbo engine with Mazda’s M-Hybrid Boost, or an e-SkyActiv G PHEV. No official power and torque figures have been released by Mazda as of the writing of this article.
Comfort and space
Donnelly said that the CX-70 was designed with comfort and interior space in mind, as Mazda endeavours to cater to the needs of consumers who want larger vehicles with more cargo room. To optimize cargo space, the CX-70 has second-row seats that fold flat to become flush with the trunk floor, which makes it easier to slide larger items into the cargo area.
In addition, the cargo area behind the second row has been optimized for storage with additional compartments and hooks for shopping bags, and a practical “subtrunk” compartment, which allows CX-70 owners to stow valuables and other smaller items out of sight. The subtrunk can be fitted with a custom-made cargo organizer, which is sold separately as a “Genuine Mazda Accessory.”
Amazon Alexa
Donnelly explained that the CX-70 will offer new convenience features like Alexa integration. “This will help further voice command capabilities,” he added, “and allow drivers to easily and safely ask for updates, like weather or driving directions while staying focused on the road.”
With Amazon Alexa integration, the driver can adjust the temperature inside the passenger cabin, change radio stations, and even control their smart home devices, without ever taking their hands off the steering wheel.
Consumers who enjoy camping and other weekend adventures will be delighted to learn that the CX-70 can tow up to 5,000 lb. (2,267 kg) and that it features a new trailer hitch view function, which makes it easier to back up and attach a trailer without the need for a helper.
“Furthermore, the CX-70 receives enhancements to cruising and traffic support,” Donnelly added. “This includes an emergency-only system to automatically decelerate and stop the vehicle if the system detects that the driver is unresponsive to escalating alerts.”
Pricing and availability information wasn’t shared during Mazda’s unveiling of the CX-70 but will be announced closer to the official launch date of the new crossover model.
