**Interior & Technology**
The interior of the CX-70 is comparable to luxury vehicles, boasting exceptional quality and beautiful finishings. While it may not match up to Lexus or BMW in terms of switchgear and plastics, it does offer a clean design that emphasizes elevated materials. The upper trim levels especially stand out, providing a luxurious cabin at a lower price point. The infotainment system, while not for everyone, is reminiscent of Lexus and BMW with its controller on the center console. Touchscreen capability is available for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it more user-friendly.
**Passenger & Cargo Space**
Despite being a two-row SUV, the CX-70 offers a surprisingly spacious interior. With the third row deleted, it has a massive cargo area that rivals some boxier SUVs like the Honda Passport. It falls just short of the Passport in terms of cargo capacity but outperforms the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Lexus RX. The backseat legroom matches the Honda Passport and even surpasses the luxurious Grand Cherokee and expensive RX in terms of headroom. Overall, the CX-70 provides a generous amount of space for both passengers and cargo.
**Performance & Fuel Economy**
The CX-70 offers three powertrain options to meet different preferences and needs. The 3.3 Turbo models feature a turbocharged inline-six engine with impressive power outputs. The base Turbo produces 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the Turbo S delivers a higher output of 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both versions come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. In terms of fuel economy, the CX-70 achieves above-average ratings for its size in the midsize SUV segment.
For those looking for a more eco-friendly option, the CX-70 PHEV is a plug-in hybrid variant with a 2.5-liter inline-four engine and an electric motor. It offers a total system output of 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The PHEV can travel an estimated 26 miles on electricity alone and has an EPA-rated 56 miles-per-gallon equivalent. While it may not be the most refined plug-in hybrid powertrain, it still provides zesty handling and steering comparable to the Turbo S models.
**What it’s like to drive**
The CX-70 stands out when it comes to driving dynamics. It offers a more engaging experience, especially for those who are accustomed to sport sedans. With its taut body control, responsive steering, and throttle, the CX-70 keeps drivers involved and entertained on the road. In fact, it’s been compared to Porsche in terms of its dynamic capabilities. The Turbo S models provide impressive power, although the sound of the engine could be improved with a more exciting exhaust note. The PHEV version may lack refinement but still offers the same lively handling as the Turbo S models.
**Pricing & Trim Levels**
The CX-70 shares its trim levels with the CX-90 but with identical pricing. The trim levels follow a ladder-type structure with more features and nicer finishings added at each level. The Turbo, Turbo S, and PHEV designate the powertrain options. While the CX-70 lacks a third row, it compensates with unique features such as a power-folding second row, under-floor storage, and special color choices. The PHEV is priced slightly higher than the Turbo S trims but offers the benefit of better fuel efficiency.
**Crash Ratings & Safety Features**
The CX-70 has not been crash tested separately from the CX-90, which received the top safety rating of Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for its excellent crashworthiness and crash prevention performance. It also achieved a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The CX-70 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels add additional safety technologies such as emergency steering assist, traffic sign recognition, and enhanced automatic emergency braking. A 360-degree parking camera is also available on the Premium Plus trims.
