2025 Mazda CX-70 vs CX-90: 7 Questions to Help You Choose the Right SUV in Saint John

Choosing between two excellent SUVs can feel overwhelming—especially when both share similar styling, powertrains, and premium features. If you're considering the 2025 Mazda CX-70 and 2025 Mazda CX-90, you're looking at two of Mazda's most capable models, each designed for different lifestyles and priorities.

The core difference comes down to seating and space. The CX-70 is a two-row, five-passenger SUV built for those who want maximum cargo flexibility and a spacious rear seat. The CX-90, on the other hand, offers three rows and can seat up to eight passengers, making it the natural choice for larger families. Beyond seating, both models share the same platform, wheelbase, and powertrain options—but how you plan to use your SUV will determine which one fits your life in Saint John.

Do You Need a Third Row, or Do You Prefer Two-Row Spaciousness?

This is the defining question. The CX-90's third row adds versatility for families with multiple children, carpools, or frequent group outings. With seating for up to eight (or seven with optional captain's chairs in the second row), the CX-90 handles school runs, hockey practices, and weekend trips with ease. The third row is best suited for children or shorter adults, with 773 mm of legroom—tight for long drives, but functional for local errands around Saint John or trips to nearby Fundy National Park.

If you rarely need more than five seats, the CX-70 offers a different advantage: space. Without the third row, the CX-70's cargo area behind the second row measures 1,272 mm in length, compared to the CX-90's 1,343 mm behind the second row (but only 527 mm behind the third row when it's in use). For outdoor enthusiasts in New Brunswick who regularly haul kayaks, camping gear, or winter equipment, the CX-70's uninterrupted cargo floor and lower load height make packing simpler.

Both models feature remote-folding rear seats, a hands-free power liftgate (on GT and higher trims), and clever sub-trunk storage. The CX-70's rear seat also reclines and slides, giving rear passengers limousine-like legroom (1,000 mm) when cargo space isn't a priority.

Is the Plug-In Hybrid Worth the Premium for Your Commute?

Both the CX-70 and CX-90 offer a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option alongside traditional mild-hybrid inline-6 engines. The e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain combines a 2.5 L four-cylinder engine with a 173 hp electric motor and a 17.8 kWh battery, producing 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The real benefit is electric-only driving: the CX-70 PHEV can travel up to 42 kilometres on battery power alone, while the CX-90 PHEV offers similar electric range.

For Saint John commuters with short daily drives—say, from Quispamsis to the uptown core—the PHEV can handle most trips without burning fuel. Charging takes 6.4 hours on a standard 120 V outlet or just 1.3 hours with a 240 V Level 2 charger. If your daily round trip is under 40 kilometres and you have access to home charging, the PHEV pays off quickly through reduced fuel costs.

However, the PHEV has trade-offs. Towing capacity drops to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) compared to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) for the mild-hybrid inline-6 models. If you tow a boat, trailer, or camper regularly, the inline-6 powertrains are better suited to the task. Additionally, in cold New Brunswick winters, the PHEV's gasoline engine may start automatically to provide cabin heat, reducing electric-only range.

The PHEV is available in GS-L and GT trims for both models. If your driving patterns favour short trips, frequent stops, or urban commuting, the PHEV makes sense. For highway-heavy driving or regular towing, the inline-6 engines offer better value.

Do You Prioritize Inline-6 Power or Mild-Hybrid Efficiency?

If the PHEV doesn't fit your needs, both the CX-70 and CX-90 offer two inline-6 turbocharged engines with M Hybrid Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that improves throttle response and efficiency.

The standard 3.3 L inline-6 (available in GS-L and GT trims) produces 280 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque on regular 87-octane fuel. It's smooth, refined, and capable, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) when properly equipped. For most drivers, this engine provides ample power for highway merging, passing, and confident winter driving on New Brunswick's icy roads.

The high-output 3.3 L inline-6 (available in GT-P and Signature trims) steps up to 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque on premium 93-octane fuel, or 319 hp on regular 87-octane. This engine is the most powerful mass-production gasoline engine Mazda has ever built, delivering strong acceleration and effortless highway cruising. It's the right choice if you frequently tow heavy loads, crave spirited driving, or simply want the most power available.

Both inline-6 engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system. Mi-Drive modes (Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing) adjust throttle response, transmission behaviour, and AWD distribution to match driving conditions. For winter driving in Saint John, Off-Road mode increases torque to the rear wheels for better traction on snow-covered streets.

Will the Cargo Space Accommodate Your Maritime Lifestyle?

New Brunswick drivers need vehicles that handle diverse cargo demands: winter tires in November, fishing gear in summer, hockey equipment year-round, and weekend getaways to the Bay of Fundy or Hopewell Rocks.

The CX-70's cargo area shines here. With the second row in place, you get 1,272 mm of cargo length and a flat load floor. Fold the seats down, and that extends to 2,245 mm—enough for kayaks, paddleboards, or full sheets of plywood from a Saint John hardware store. The liftgate opening is 1,106 mm wide, making it easy to slide in bulky items.

The CX-90 offers similar dimensions when the third row is folded (1,343 mm behind the second row, 2,438 mm with both rows folded), but using the third row shrinks cargo space dramatically to just 527 mm. That's barely enough for a few grocery bags. Families who need all three rows regularly will find themselves relying on a roof box or trailer for longer trips.

Both models include:

• Sub-trunk storage for valuables and small items
• Cargo hooks for securing bags and equipment
• Remote-folding rear seats (activated from the liftgate or key fob)
• Available hands-free power liftgate (GT and higher trims)

For Saint John drivers who prioritize cargo flexibility over passenger capacity, the CX-70 is the clear winner.

How Important Is Interior Refinement and Comfort?

Both the CX-70 and CX-90 share Mazda's upscale interior design philosophy, but trim levels determine how luxurious the cabin feels.

Base GS-L models (MHEV only) feature leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 10.25-inch Mazda Connect infotainment display with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. GT trims upgrade to genuine leather, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, wireless connectivity, heated rear seats, and a power panoramic moonroof.

GT-P and Signature trims (CX-70 only for Signature) add Nappa leather, ventilated front seats, a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror, and quilted leather accents. The Signature trim offers exclusive tan leather with maple wood trim, creating a cabin that rivals luxury brands.

The CX-90's higher trims mirror the CX-70's equipment but add third-row climate vents and additional USB-C ports for rear passengers. Both models include three-zone automatic climate control, ensuring everyone stays comfortable during cold Saint John winters or humid summer drives.

One notable difference: the CX-70 emphasizes a driver-focused layout with a slightly sportier feel, while the CX-90's cabin prioritizes family-friendly features like extra storage bins and rear-seat entertainment options.

What About Safety and Driver-Assistance Features?

Mazda's i-Activsense suite is standard across both models, but higher trims unlock advanced driver-assistance technologies.

Standard on all trims:

• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Smart Brake Support (front collision mitigation)
• Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist
• Pedestrian Detection (front-sensing)

Added on GT and higher trims:

• 360° View Monitor with See-Through View
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Smart Brake Support Rear and Rear Crossing
• Front Cross Traffic Alert

Exclusive to GT-P and Signature trims:

• Cruise and Traffic Support (semi-autonomous highway driving)
• Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist
• Driver Monitoring (detects drowsiness or distraction)
• Unresponsive Driver Support (brings vehicle to a stop if driver becomes incapacitated)

For Saint John drivers navigating Highway 1 or Route 7 in winter conditions, these advanced systems provide extra confidence. The 360° View Monitor is particularly useful for tight parking in uptown Saint John or navigating snowy driveways.

Which Model Fits Your Budget and Trim Preferences?

While specific pricing isn't included here, understanding trim availability helps narrow your choice.

CX-70 trim lineup:

• GS-L (MHEV and PHEV)
• GT (MHEV and PHEV)
• GT-P (MHEV only, high-output inline-6)
• Signature (MHEV only, high-output inline-6)

CX-90 trim lineup:

• GS (MHEV only, eight-passenger)
• GS-L (MHEV and PHEV, seven or eight passengers)
• GT (MHEV and PHEV, seven or eight passengers)
• GT-P (MHEV only, high-output inline-6, seven or eight passengers)
• Signature (MHEV only, high-output inline-6, six passengers with captain's chairs)

The CX-70's Signature trim is exclusive to this model, offering the highest level of luxury. The CX-90's GS trim provides a more affordable entry point for families needing three rows.

Both models include Mazda Connected Services for two years, allowing remote start, vehicle status checks, and stolen vehicle tracking through the MyMazda app.

Key Comparisons at a Glance

Discover Your Ideal Mazda SUV at King Mazda in Saint John

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 share a platform, powertrains, and premium features, but they serve different purposes. The CX-70 is the right choice for drivers who prioritize cargo space, two-row comfort, and a sportier driving experience. The CX-90 excels for families who need three rows, extra passenger capacity, and versatile seating configurations.

Both models deliver Mazda's signature driving dynamics, standard i-Activ AWD, and advanced safety technology. Your decision comes down to how many people you regularly carry and whether you value maximum cargo flexibility or extra seating.

Visit King Mazda in Saint John to explore both models, test the PHEV and inline-6 powertrains, and find the SUV that fits your New Brunswick lifestyle.