Kia Sportage Hybrid vs Mazda CX-70

The Sportage is big enough for family use, but not so large that it's unwieldy or difficult to park in the city or in an owner's garage. It's packed with useful technology, and boasts bold styling that stands out in a sea of similarly shaped crossovers. In its hybrid-powered form, it’s also efficient, though its mileage ratings drop dramatically with all-wheel drive (AWD).

Verdict: The 2026 Kia Sportage is sized right in between smaller subcompact and larger compact crossover SUVs, and it strikes an intriguing balance of roominess, comfort and efficiency that ought to win over plenty of American buyers.

The CX-70 midsize SUV mimics the Lexus RX by offering two rows of seats, seating for five people, distinctive styling, an upscale interior, and gas or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains. If this new Mazda model looks familiar, you’re not mistaken. The 2025 CX-70 is the same as the CX-90, but without a third-row seat. Subtle styling changes help it to stand apart from its family-friendly sibling in the Mazda SUV lineup.

Verdict: Mazda envisions itself as a premium brand and makes the necessary investments in its products to ensure credibility in that respect. However, its vehicles also cost less than luxury-badged alternatives, adding value to the equation. That value makes it easier to forgive the 2025 Mazda CX-70’s few shortcomings.