Mazda SUV Performance Review
When it comes to performance, Mazda’s SUV lineup stands out for blending power, efficiency, and driving enjoyment. From the compact CX-50 to the versatile CX-90, Mazda SUVs deliver strong horsepower, responsive handling, and competitive fuel economy that often lead their class. Whether you’re looking for a daily commuter with impressive MPG or a capable crossover with robust towing and acceleration, Mazda’s SUVs offer a well-rounded package that balances performance with practicality. This review dives into how each model stacks up in power and efficiency, helping you decide which Mazda SUV sets the standard in its class.
Mazda CX-30
Horsepower & Torque
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 offers two distinct engine options, each delivering impressive performance tailored to different driving preferences. The base 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine produces 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0–60 mph time of approximately 8.7 seconds. For those seeking enhanced power and acceleration, the available 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque when using premium 93-octane fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with regular 87-octane fuel. This turbocharged variant accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.1 seconds, offering a more dynamic driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 offers strong fuel efficiency for a subcompact SUV. Its 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine achieves 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined, with a 12.7-gallon tank providing up to 368 miles per fill. The turbocharged 2.5-liter delivers 22/30/25 mpg. With highway mileage sometimes exceeding 41 mpg, the CX-30 balances efficiency and driving enjoyment for a variety of needs.
Mazda CX-5
Horsepower & Torque
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offers two engine options, each delivering distinct performance characteristics. The base 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G 4-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0–60 mph time of approximately 8.1 seconds. For those seeking enhanced performance, the available 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque when using premium 93-octane fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with regular 87-octane fuel. This turbocharged variant accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.2 seconds, offering a more dynamic driving experience. Both engines come paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard i-ACTIV AWD, ensuring responsive handling and traction in various driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
The CX-5 delivers impressive fuel efficiency for a compact SUV. Its 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine achieves an EPA-estimated 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the turbocharged 2.5-liter offers 22/27 mpg. Real-world averages range from 26 to 30 mpg combined, aided by cylinder deactivation technology. Whether in the city or on the highway, the CX-5 balances performance and efficiency effectively.
Mazda CX-50
Horsepower & Torque
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offers a range of powertrains to suit various driving preferences. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0–60 mph time of approximately 9.5 seconds. For those seeking enhanced performance, the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produces up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.7 seconds. Additionally, the CX-50 Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors to generate 219 horsepower, achieving a 0–60 mph time of 7.6 seconds. All models come standard with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring responsive handling and traction.
Fuel Efficiency
The CX-50 offers fuel-efficient options for every driver. The base 2.5 S achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined, while the turbocharged 2.5 Turbo delivers 23/29/25 mpg. The CX-50 Hybrid impresses with 38 mpg combined and a driving range up to 551 miles per tank, making it ideal for eco-conscious drivers. With these options, the CX-50 balances fuel economy and performance for a variety of driving needs.
Mazda CX-70
Horsepower & Torque
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offers a range of powertrains, each delivering impressive performance tailored to different driving preferences. The base 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine produces 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0–60 mph time of approximately 7.1 seconds. For those seeking enhanced performance, the available 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine delivers up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. Additionally, the 2025 CX-70 Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors to generate 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0–60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. All models come standard with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring responsive handling and traction in various driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
The CX-70 offers two distinct powertrain options, each delivering competitive fuel efficiency for a mid-size SUV. The standard 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, providing a balanced blend of performance and economy. For those seeking enhanced efficiency, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 323 horsepower. This PHEV model boasts an EPA-estimated 56 MPGe and 25 mpg combined when operating in hybrid mode. Additionally, it offers up to 26 miles of all-electric range, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers. Both configurations are equipped with an 18.5-gallon fuel tank, supporting long-distance travel with impressive range capabilities.
Mazda CX-90
Horsepower & Torque
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offers a range of powertrains, each delivering impressive performance tailored to different driving preferences. The base 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine produces 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0–60 mph time of approximately 7.2 seconds. For those seeking enhanced performance, the available 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine delivers up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque when using premium 93-octane fuel, or 319 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with regular 87-octane fuel. This turbocharged variant accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.3 seconds, offering a more dynamic driving experience. Additionally, the 2025 CX-90 Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors to generate 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0–60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. All models come standard with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring responsive handling and traction in various driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
The CX-90 offers two powertrain options, each delivering competitive fuel efficiency for a three-row SUV. The base 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. For those seeking enhanced efficiency, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 323 horsepower. This PHEV model boasts an EPA-estimated 56 MPGe and 25 mpg combined when operating in hybrid mode. Additionally, it offers up to 26 miles of all-electric range, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers. Both configurations are equipped with an 18.5-gallon fuel tank, supporting long-distance travel with impressive range capabilities. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, performance, or a balance of both, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 offers options to meet your driving needs.
