How the 2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV's 323 Horsepower Balances Performance and Efficiency for British Columbia Drivers

The 2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV's combined 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque delivers confident highway merging and mountain pass performance while achieving 4.2 Le/100 km combined energy consumption. For British Columbia drivers navigating Coquihalla Highway grades or Trans-Canada Highway traffic, this powertrain eliminates the traditional compromise between two-row utility and fuel efficiency.

The system operates purely on electric power even at freeway speeds, providing silent cruising through Metro Vancouver while retaining full capability when needed. The two-row configuration with 1,131 litres of cargo space behind the second row suits couples and smaller families who prioritize utility over third-row seating.

Powertrain and Electric Range

The CX-70 PHEV combines a 2.5 L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with an electric motor powered by a 17.8 kWh battery pack. The system produces 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque on premium 93-octane fuel, or 319 horsepower with the same torque on regular 87-octane fuel. The electric motor contributes 173 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque independently.

The vehicle travels up to 42 kilometres on pure electric power in EV mode. This range aligns with typical Metro Vancouver commutes, allowing many drivers to complete daily errands without consuming gasoline. The system maintains electric-only operation even at freeway speeds, enabling silent highway cruising when the battery has charge.

An eight-speed automatic transmission manages power delivery to all four wheels through standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. Transitions between electric-only, hybrid, and gasoline-only operation happen seamlessly without driver intervention.

Performance and Efficiency

The 369 lb-ft of torque available from low engine speeds provides strong acceleration from stops and confident passing power. The CX-70 PHEV maintains highway speeds on British Columbia's mountain grades without difficulty, with sufficient margin for passing slower vehicles even while climbing.

When operating in hybrid mode with regular charging, the CX-70 PHEV achieves 4.2 Le/100 km combined energy consumption. Operating purely on gasoline after battery depletion, fuel economy measures 9.9 L/100 km city, 8.7 L/100 km highway, and 9.4 L/100 km combined. The 798-kilometre combined range provides sufficient capacity for trips throughout British Columbia without refuelling stops.

Charging and Operating Modes

The CX-70 PHEV accepts Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging. Level 1 charging from 20% to 80% requires 6.4 hours, while Level 2 charging completes the same cycle in 1.3 hours. Most drivers install Level 2 equipment at home for overnight charging.

Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) includes Normal, Sport, Off-Road, Towing, and EV modes. EV mode forces electric-only operation for as long as possible, maximizing electric range during urban driving. Towing mode optimizes transmission and traction control for trailer work when towing up to 3,500 lbs.

Two-Row Cargo Advantages

The CX-70's two-row configuration provides 1,131 litres of cargo volume behind the second row (1,122 litres with panoramic roof). This substantially exceeds three-row SUVs with their third rows in use. With second-row seats folded, capacity expands to 2,147 litres.

Remote-folding rear seats operate via buttons in the cargo area, eliminating the need to climb into the cabin. A single person can fold the seats and load cargo without assistance—useful when loading kayaks, mountain bikes, or furniture.

The cargo area includes a sub-trunk design with hidden storage compartments and organizational hooks. Small items like tools or emergency supplies can be secured out of sight, while hooks prevent bags and equipment from shifting during driving.

Technology and Features

The CX-70 PHEV GS-L and GT trims include a 12.3-inch digital gauge display showing battery state of charge and power flow, 12.3-inch centre display with Mazda Connect, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Bose 12-speaker premium audio on GT models.

Available Nappa leather seating in black or Garnet Red, heated and ventilated front seats, and three-zone automatic climate control ensure passenger comfort. The 1,500-watt AC power outlet in the cargo area provides capacity for power tools or camping equipment at remote British Columbia locations.

Safety and Driving Assistance

Standard i-Activsense features include Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Smart Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, and Emergency Lane Keeping. GT models add 360° View Monitor, parking sensors, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

Hill Descent Control maintains controlled speeds on steep mountain grades without constant brake application. Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) suppresses body lift during cornering, enhancing stability.

Real-World Applications

A typical Burnaby to downtown Vancouver commute (15 kilometres each way) operates entirely on electric power, using roughly 30 kilometres of the 42-kilometre range. Plugging in overnight fully recharges the battery for the next day. Over a work week, the vehicle operates primarily on electric power, consuming gasoline only for longer weekend trips.

For trips from Burnaby to Kelowna (approximately 400 kilometres), the CX-70 PHEV begins on electric power through Metro Vancouver traffic. As electric range depletes, the gasoline engine activates seamlessly. The 798-kilometre combined range completes the round trip without refuelling.

Experience the CX-70 PHEV at Metrotown Mazda

The 2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV provides meaningful performance and efficiency for British Columbia drivers who can utilize both electric and gasoline capabilities. The 323-horsepower output handles mountain passes confidently, while 42-kilometre electric range covers many daily driving needs. The two-row configuration with substantial cargo space suits those who prioritize utility over third-row seating.

Visit our team at Metrotown Mazda in Burnaby to learn how the CX-70 PHEV's capabilities align with your driving patterns throughout Metro Vancouver and British Columbia.