The CX-70: Two-Row Premium SUV That Outclasses Entry-Luxury Brands
September 30 2025,
When families in Ontario start shopping for a premium two-row SUV, the Acura RDX often appears on the shortlist. It's positioned as an accessible luxury crossover with sporty handling and upscale materials. But there's another option that delivers a similar—and in many cases, superior—experience without the luxury-brand premium: the 2025 Mazda CX-70.
The CX-70 brings something rare to the mid-size two-row segment: a smooth, refined inline-six engine. While most competitors, including the RDX, rely on turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains, Mazda's approach delivers a different kind of refinement. For drivers in Scarborough evaluating their options, understanding how these two SUVs compare can help clarify which one truly fits their needs.
At a Glance: CX-70 vs. Acura RDX
|
Feature |
2025 Mazda CX-70 |
2025 Acura RDX |
|---|---|---|
|
Engine |
3.3 L inline-six turbo with M-Hybrid |
2.0 L four-cylinder turbo |
|
Horsepower |
280 hp (standard) / 340 hp (high-output) |
272 hp |
|
Torque |
332 lb-ft (standard) / 369 lb-ft (high-output) |
280 lb-ft |
|
Drivetrain |
i-Activ AWD (standard) |
SH-AWD (standard) |
|
Seating |
5 passengers |
5 passengers |
|
Cargo Volume |
835 L (standard) / 1,668 L (seats folded) |
835 L (standard) / 1,668 L (seats folded) |
|
Towing Capacity |
2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) |
680 kg (1,500 lbs) |
|
Fuel Economy (Combined) |
9.3 L/100 km |
9.9 L/100 km |
Engine and Performance: The Inline-Six Advantage
The most notable difference between these two SUVs is what's under the hood. The CX-70's 3.3 L inline-six turbo engine produces 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque in its standard configuration. For buyers who want more power, the high-output version delivers 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
The Acura RDX uses a 2.0 L turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. While the RDX's engine is capable, the CX-70's inline-six layout offers smoother power delivery and less vibration. Inline-six engines are inherently balanced, which means less harshness during acceleration and a quieter cabin at highway speeds.
Both vehicles use an eight-speed or ten-speed automatic transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive. The RDX features Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which can send up to 70% of power to the rear wheels and distribute it side-to-side for sharper cornering. The CX-70's i-Activ AWD continuously monitors road conditions and adjusts power distribution proactively, prioritizing traction and stability.
Towing and Capability
For families who tow boats, trailers, or recreational equipment, the CX-70 holds a clear advantage. It can tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) when properly equipped, while the RDX is rated for just 680 kg (1,500 lbs). This difference makes the CX-70 a more versatile choice for Ontario buyers with active lifestyles.
Interior Quality and Technology
Both vehicles offer well-appointed cabins with premium materials, but they take different approaches.
CX-70 Interior Highlights
- Black leatherette or Nappa leather seating (depending on trim)
- 10.25-inch or 12.3-inch Mazda Connect infotainment display
- Available head-up Active Driving Display
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Bose 12-speaker premium audio system (GT and above)
- Alexa Built-in integration
- Available quilted Nappa leather with unique Japanese-inspired stitching (Signature trim)
Acura RDX Interior Highlights
- Leatherette or Milano premium leather seating
- 10.2-inch HD centre display with True Touchpad Interface
- Available ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System (16 speakers)
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Available head-up display (Platinum Elite trim only)
- Amazon Alexa Built-in
The CX-70 offers a slightly larger infotainment screen on higher trims (12.3 inches vs. 10.2 inches), and its three-zone climate control allows rear passengers to set their own temperature preferences. The RDX's True Touchpad Interface is unique but can take time to learn, while the CX-70's rotary controller and available touchscreen functionality (when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto) offer more intuitive operation.
Material quality is strong in both vehicles. The CX-70's available Signature trim features Japanese-inspired design elements, including Kakenui stitching patterns and premium suede-like materials on the dashboard. The RDX's Milano leather and Ultrasuede inserts create a sporty, upscale feel, particularly in A-Spec trims.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both SUVs come well-equipped with advanced safety features as standard.
CX-70 Standard Safety Features
- Smart Brake Support Front
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Driver Attention Alert
Acura RDX Standard Safety Features (AcuraWatch)
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
- Blind Spot Information System
- Rear Cross Traffic Monitor
Higher trims of both vehicles add more advanced systems. The CX-70 GT-P and Signature trims include Cruising & Traffic Support with Unresponsive Driver Support, which can detect if the driver becomes incapacitated and bring the vehicle to a stop. The RDX Platinum Elite adds a surround-view camera system and parking sensors.
Fuel Efficiency
The CX-70 returns an estimated 9.3 L/100 km combined with the standard inline-six engine, while the RDX achieves 9.9 L/100 km combined. Despite having a larger, more powerful engine, the CX-70 delivers better fuel economy. This is partly due to Mazda's M-Hybrid system, which uses a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup to improve low-speed throttle response and reduce fuel consumption.
Value Proposition
The CX-70 GS-L starts at $49,750, while the base RDX starts at approximately $49,000 (pricing varies by retailer). Both are competitively positioned, but the CX-70 includes features like three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and 19-inch wheels as standard—items that require upgrades on the RDX.
When comparing similarly equipped trims, the CX-70 often delivers more standard equipment for the money. The CX-70 GT, which includes leather seating, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a panoramic moonroof, starts at $54,350. The RDX A-Spec, which offers similar features, is priced higher.
Which SUV Fits Your Needs?
The Acura RDX is a solid choice for buyers who prioritize sport-tuned handling and the prestige of a luxury badge. Its SH-AWD system excels in spirited driving situations, and the A-Spec trims deliver a sporty aesthetic.
The CX-70, however, offers a more well-rounded package for families in Ontario. Its inline-six engine provides smoother, quieter performance. It tows significantly more, making it better suited for recreational use. It includes more standard features at competitive pricing. And it delivers better fuel economy despite its larger engine.
For drivers who want a premium experience without paying luxury-brand pricing, the CX-70 is the smarter choice.
Experience the CX-70 at Scarboro Mazda
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 redefines what a two-row SUV can offer. From its refined inline-six engine to its upscale interior and real-world capability, it delivers everything families in Scarborough need—without the luxury-brand cost. Book your test drive today at Scarboro Mazda and experience the difference for yourself.
