CX-70 MHEV vs. CX-70 PHEV: Which Powertrain Is Right for Maritime Drivers?

If you're exploring the 2025 Mazda CX-70 lineup here in New Brunswick, you're looking at two distinct electrified powertrains: the Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) and the Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). Both deliver excellent performance and capability, but they work in fundamentally different ways. Understanding how each system operates—and how it fits your daily driving—helps you make the right choice for your needs.

The CX-70 MHEV uses a 3.3-litre inline-six turbocharged engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The CX-70 PHEV pairs a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a larger battery and electric motor, allowing for pure electric driving. Both come standard with i-Activ all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, making them equally capable on New Brunswick roads.

At a Glance: CX-70 MHEV vs. CX-70 PHEV

How the MHEV System Works

The CX-70 MHEV uses a 48-volt mild hybrid system to support the engine during acceleration and improve fuel efficiency. The system's small 0.33 kWh lithium-ion battery powers a 16.9 hp electric motor that provides an extra 113 lb-ft of torque at low speeds. This setup assists the engine rather than replacing it—you can't drive on electric power alone.

The mild hybrid system captures energy during braking and coasting, storing it in the battery for later use. When you accelerate, the electric motor provides a boost, reducing the load on the engine and improving response. This results in smoother power delivery and better efficiency without requiring any charging infrastructure.

The standard MHEV powertrain produces 280 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel. The high-output version delivers 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel (or 319 hp with regular fuel). Both engines provide strong performance for highway merging, winter driving, and towing up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) when properly equipped.

How the PHEV System Works

The CX-70 PHEV takes a different approach. It pairs a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a 173 hp electric motor powered by a 17.8 kWh battery pack. Combined, the system produces 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque when using premium fuel.

The key difference is the PHEV's ability to drive on electric power alone. With a full charge, the CX-70 PHEV can travel up to 42 km on electricity before the gasoline engine engages. For many drivers in Saint John, this covers daily errands, short commutes, and around-town driving without burning any fuel.

When the battery depletes, the PHEV operates like a conventional hybrid, using both the engine and electric motor together. The system automatically manages power delivery based on driving conditions. You can also select EV Mode through the Mi-Drive system to prioritize electric driving as long as battery charge allows.

Charging the PHEV: What You Need to Know

The CX-70 PHEV requires regular charging to maximize its electric range and efficiency benefits. Charging options include:

• Level 1 (120V household outlet): Charges from 20% to 80% in approximately 6.4 hours
• Level 2 (240V home or public charger): Charges from 20% to 80% in approximately 1.3 hours

If you don't charge regularly, the PHEV still operates as a hybrid vehicle, but you won't see the same fuel economy benefits. For drivers without access to home charging or who frequently take long trips, this is an important consideration.

In colder New Brunswick winters, the engine may start even with a full battery to ensure proper cabin heating. This is normal operation designed to keep you comfortable while maximizing efficiency.

Fuel Economy Comparison

Fuel economy depends heavily on how you use each vehicle:

CX-70 MHEV:

• Delivers consistent efficiency regardless of charging
• Standard engine: Estimated fuel consumption based on engine output and driving conditions
• High-output engine: Prioritizes performance while maintaining reasonable efficiency

CX-70 PHEV:

• Combined electricity and gasoline: 4.2 Le/100 km
• Gasoline only (when battery depleted): 9.9 L/100 km city, 8.7 L/100 km highway, 9.4 L/100 km combined
• Total range: 798 km (42 km electric + gasoline)

For drivers who charge regularly and drive shorter distances, the PHEV offers substantial fuel savings. For those with longer daily commutes or limited charging access, the MHEV provides consistent performance without infrastructure requirements.

Daily Driving Experience

MHEV Experience: The mild hybrid system works quietly in the background. You'll notice smoother acceleration and refined power delivery, especially from a stop. The inline-six engine provides a satisfying, responsive feel that suits New Brunswick's mix of highway and rural driving. No charging cables, no range anxiety—just fill up and go.

PHEV Experience: Starting your day with a full charge means silent, smooth electric driving for your morning routine. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless. You'll appreciate the instant torque from the electric motor in city traffic. However, you'll need to develop a charging routine and plan for longer trips where charging may be less convenient.

Both powertrains include Mi-Drive modes (Normal, Sport, Off-Road, Towing, plus EV mode for PHEV) to adapt performance to different conditions. Both deliver the same confident all-wheel-drive capability that matters on Maritime roads.

Towing and Capability

The CX-70 MHEV offers higher towing capacity—up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) when equipped with Mazda Genuine Towing Accessories. This makes it better suited for hauling trailers, boats, or campers.

The CX-70 PHEV can tow up to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs), which handles smaller trailers and recreational equipment. The difference comes from the additional weight of the larger battery pack and the different powertrain design.

Both models include Towing Mode through Mi-Drive, which adjusts throttle response, transmission behaviour, and stability control for safer trailer handling.

Which Powertrain Is Right for You?

Choose the CX-70 MHEV if:

• You drive longer distances regularly or frequently travel outside urban areas
• You don't have easy access to home charging
• You need maximum towing capacity
• You prefer the simplicity of traditional refuelling
• You want the refined performance of the inline-six engine

Choose the CX-70 PHEV if:

• Your daily driving is mostly within 40 km
• You have access to Level 2 home charging or can charge overnight
• You want to minimize fuel costs on short trips
• You're comfortable managing charging routines
• You value the option to drive on electric power for local errands

Both powertrains deliver the same spacious interior, advanced safety features, and Mazda's signature driving dynamics. The choice comes down to how you drive and what infrastructure you have available.

Experience Both Powertrains at King Mazda

The best way to understand the difference between the CX-70 MHEV and PHEV is to drive them. Our team at King Mazda in Saint John can walk you through both systems, answer questions about charging, and help you determine which powertrain fits your lifestyle in New Brunswick. Book your test drive today to experience both options on roads you know.