As we approach the middle of the decade, car enthusiasts and casual drivers alike are keen to lay eyes on what manufacturers have in store for their latest models. Mazda, a brand known for its sleek designs and performance-oriented vehicles, does not disappoint with the introduction of the 2025 Mazda CX-70. But it raises a question for many Mazda aficionados: Is this model the CX-90 we’ve been anticipating all along?

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 steps onto the scene with a bold stance that screams sophistication and strength. Leaning into Mazda’s Kodo design language, this midsize crossover features an elegantly elongated hood paired with a wide, imposing grille that firmly establishes its presence on the road. Its aesthetics are undeniably harmonious with familiar Mazda cues yet enhanced to embrace a more modern, forward-thinking appearance.

Under the hood, rumors suggested that there would be a revolutionary engine powering the new CX-70, but what we got was in many ways just as impressive. A turbocharged four-cylinder Skyactiv-G engine takes center stage, delivering a robust amount of horsepower while also promising improved fuel efficiency over past models. It’s mated to a responsive transmission for a driving experience that mixes agility with authority—a characteristic staple of Mazda vehicles.

Inside, the cabin whispers luxury in volumes appropriate for its class. It doesn’t scream opulence; instead, it emphasizes tasteful minimalism and driver-focused ergonomics. In true Mazda fashion, everything from the infotainment system to climate controls feels intuitive and within reach without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. Premium materials line every surface, elevating every touchpoint to be both visually appealing and comfortable.

The technology suite is as advanced as you’d expect from a vehicle of its era—featuring comprehensive driver assistance features and connectivity options that ensure every journey is not just safe but also enjoyable. It indicates that Mazda has not simply focused on driving dynamics but also on creating an all-encompassing experience tailored to drivers’ connected lives.

So how does this relate back to our longing for the fabled CX-90? In essence, it seems as though Mazda has managed to fuse expectations into something distinctively new yet deeply familiar. While it may not bear the CX-90 moniker, there is no denying that this vehicle embodies much of what fans anticipate from a top-tier Mazda crossover—athletic handling coupled with advanced technology and upscale design touches.

The question remains whether it will satiate those who awaited something branded specifically as the next flagship model. Yet as first impressions go, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 suggests that what we wanted isn’t tied to a name but rather to an experience—and Mazda appears ready to deliver just that. Whether or not it dawns the title of CX-90 seems almost inconsequential when faced with what is genuinely an exciting addition to their lineup and potentially exactly what we were hoping for—even if we didn’t know it at first glance.