Mazda CX-70 vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 presented a sporty and appealing design, reminiscent of a sportier version of the CX-90. It featured redesigned front and rear fasciae, a unique grille insert, new wheels, and dark accents, creating an optical illusion that made it appear slightly smaller than its CX-90 counterpart. Inside, the CX-70 offered a distinct red leather treatment not available in the CX-90, maintaining a nearly identical interior otherwise, except for the absence of a third-row seat. The SUV boasted quality materials and textures, especially in higher trims, though it could benefit from softer dashboard panels in its most expensive variants. Overall, the CX-70 exuded an upscale feel, though it didn't quite reach luxury model sophistication.

In contrast, the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look with minimal styling changes, resembling a conventional gas-powered car more than an EV. It featured a thin slot behind the Chevy Bowtie logo and an integrated grille insert in the bumper. The Bolt's tall and narrow stance prioritized utility and interior space over a sporty appearance. Inside, the Bolt underwent a more dramatic makeover, with a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The cabin was dominated by hard plastic surfaces, reinforcing its budget feel, though the RS trim added Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching. Despite its budget materials, the Bolt offered ample storage and a practical layout.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline six-cylinder engine in the Turbo and Turbo S models, producing 280 and 340 horsepower, respectively. The Turbo S required premium fuel for optimal performance. Both models featured a standard 48-volt mild-hybrid system, achieving an estimated 25 mpg in combined driving. The PHEV variant combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 68-kilowatt electric motor, delivering 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It provided 26 miles of electric-only range and averaged 25 mpg in hybrid mode. All CX-70 models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, offering various drive modes for different conditions. The CX-70 excelled in handling, thanks to its suspension design and large wheels, though it could benefit from adaptive damping for a smoother ride.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and reliance on rare earth minerals. It was powered by a motor from the Chevy Equinox EV, producing 210 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time in the low seven-second range. The Bolt's acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, and it offered one-pedal driving with adjustable brake regeneration. The ride was firm but not overly stiff, and the Bolt's low center of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. The 2027 Bolt boasted an EPA-estimated range of 262 miles on a full charge, with a standard Tesla-derived NACS charge port and increased charging speed.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 provided ample space for up to five passengers, with standard heated front seats and a triple-zone automatic climate control system. Premium Plus trims added heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The front seats offered firm cushioning and good support, though adjustable side bolsters and massagers would enhance comfort. Cargo space was generous, with 39.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The CX-70 also offered various cargo-enhancing accessories, including an organizer and roof-rail crossbars.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants. The rear seats provided plenty of headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor for center-seat passengers. The Bolt offered 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, with a large bin underneath the floor for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, enhancing practicality. While there was no frunk, the Bolt provided ample storage for personal items, including a large bin with dividers, a floor tray, and a deep center armrest bin.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The Mazda Connect system offered touch-sensing capability only for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a control knob and volume knob on the center console. The system was graphically pleasing and logically laid out, with Alexa Built-in for improved voice recognition. Most CX-70 models featured a 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system, delivering excellent sound quality. The SUV also offered an Active Driving Display and a camera-based digital rearview mirror as an accessory.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, but the system offered logical menus, sharp graphics, and quick responses. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, a digital rear-view mirror, and a wireless charging pad. The Bolt's navigation system could help drivers find charging stations and precondition the battery for optimal charging rates. The Bolt also offered vehicle-to-load charging as a backup power source.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 came standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving-assistance systems (ADAS) under the i-ActiveSense collection. Premium trims added semi-autonomous steering-assistance features, including active blind-spot assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and road-keeping assist. The CX-70 also featured a Cruising & Traffic Support system with Unresponsive Driver Support, providing hands-on semi-autonomous driving assistance. The NHTSA awarded the CX-70 five stars overall, and the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not yet available, but it was expected to achieve high scores based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitors. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, a digital rear-view mirror, and traffic-sign recognition. GM's Super Cruise hands-free automated highway driving system was available for an additional cost.