The Mazda CX-70 could face an uncertain future as sales continue to lag behind the larger CX-90, raising questions about the need for two closely related midsize SUVs in the automaker’s lineup. A report suggests Mazda could introduce two-row versions of the CX-90 for the 2027 model year, potentially making the CX-70 redundant. Mazda has not confirmed the reported plans.

Mazda’s Push Into the Premium SUV Market

Mazda has built a broad crossover lineup, with only two other models outside the SUV category: the Mazda3 and MX-5. Most of its SUVs reflect the brand’s driver-focused approach, combining everyday practicality with an emphasis on driving performance.

At the top of the lineup sits the Mazda CX-90, a midsize SUV positioned as a credible alternative to established European luxury models. Its well-appointed cabin gives it an upscale feel, while the six-cylinder version has been presented as Mazda’s take on the BMW X5 at a significantly lower price.

The CX-90’s plug-in hybrid version, however, still needs refinement. Despite that limitation, the model has helped demonstrate Mazda’s ambitions to compete in the premium vehicle market.

Why Mazda Created the CX-70

The CX-90 initially made a strong impression in the sales market, with its standard three-row seating offering a practical option for families seeking a midsize SUV. However, not every buyer needs the additional seating capacity.

Rather than offering two-row versions of the CX-90, Mazda introduced a separate model: the CX-70. Launched in January 2024 for the 2025 model year, the CX-70 is essentially a CX-90 without the third row, along with a few distinctive styling details.

Removing the rearmost seats also provided more cargo space than the CX-90, giving the CX-70 a practical advantage for buyers who prioritize storage over passenger capacity. However, reactions to the model have varied, with some viewing it as a useful addition and others questioning why Mazda created a separate vehicle instead of offering a two-row CX-90.

Mazda CX-70 Sales Fall Behind the CX-90

The CX-70’s sales performance has fallen short of expectations, and figures through September 2026 show both of Mazda’s flagship SUVs struggling. Year-to-date sales of the CX-90 have declined by 25%, while the CX-70 has recorded a steeper drop of 28.1%.

As of September 2026, Mazda had sold 34,999 CX-90 units, compared with just 9,686 CX-70 units. The difference highlights the substantial gap between the two models, despite their close relationship and shared positioning in the midsize SUV segment.

The CX-70 has also trailed other Mazda models that occupy very different segments. The MX-5 recorded 7,598 sales through the end of September, while the Mazda3 Hatchback reached 11,351 units, surpassing the CX-70’s total.

Could Two-Row CX-90 Models Replace the CX-70?

The sales gap between the two SUVs has persisted since the CX-70 entered the lineup. In 2026, the CX-90 has outsold the CX-70 by more than three to one. The difference was nearly four to one in 2025 and exceeded five to one in 2024.

The CX-70’s future has now come into question following a report that was subsequently taken down. The recovered report indicated that Mazda could introduce two-row versions of the CX-90 for the 2027 model year.

According to the report, the Turbo Premium Sport and Turbo S Premium Sport trims would receive two-row configurations. If that information proves accurate, the CX-90 would offer buyers a direct alternative to the CX-70 within the same model family.

Such a move could make the CX-70 redundant, particularly given the CX-90’s stronger sales performance and the possibility of obtaining a two-row configuration without choosing a separate model.

Mazda Has Yet to Confirm the Report

Mazda has not confirmed the reported plans for two-row CX-90 models, and a request for comment has been made. The potential changes to the lineup therefore remain unconfirmed.

With sales of both flagship SUVs declining and the CX-70 continuing to trail the CX-90 by a wide margin, Mazda faces a challenge in addressing the performance of its premium SUV lineup. Whether the company will expand the CX-90 range or retain the CX-70 remains uncertain.