Mazda's CX-70 SUV could be just what you're seeking

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- It could be the definition of what most auto buyers are looking for these days: A peppy, midsize sport-utility vehicle stuffed with numerous customer-pleasing perks and priced around $50,000.

It was my tester for a pleasant week, wearing the label of 2026 Mazda CX-70 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus.

Mazda's CX lineup is loaded and formidable, and buyers looking for something in the middle range won't be disappointed with the CX-70.

The look is sleek and sporty, which matches the performance characteristics of the vehicle.  Power is provided by a 3.3-liter, six-cylinder turbocharged engine rated at 280 horsepower.

The power plant feels much stronger than that 280 number, especially off the line from a standing start.  And yet, as a freeway cruiser, the CX-70 smooths out for a serene, quiet ride that volunteer passengers absolutely loved.

The interior is modern, stylish and useful. From safety to luxury, the features added  up to a steal, given the reasonable $51,795 sticker price.

Particular favorites included Nappa leather, hill descent control, 21-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing windshield wipers, heated front and second row seats, a hands-free power liftgate and rear cross-traffic alert. Really, this is a $60,000 vehicle with a starting price of $49,570.

Fuel mileage was pretty fair for this segment, at 24 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.  A max five-star federal government overall crash test score was another plus.

Taken in full, this CX-70 likely appeals to a wide demographic of motorists, particularly prospective buyers seeking value amid a blizzard of practical-size crossover sport utes.